Summary: Secrets from Candy’s fiancée’s past come to light when her former lover arrives in Virginia City and threatens her and Candy’s upcoming nuptials. This is the seventh story in my Forever Reimagined series. 

Rating: PG

Word Count: 15,336

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)

Chapter One

(Hannah)

“It’s beautiful,” I said as I moved my fingers along the white-laced fabric. My shoulders sank however when I glanced at the price tag. “But it’s much too dear for me to afford.”

“Oh, nonsense,” Mrs. Burton fussed. “You know that when you work for me, I offer a very generous discount.”

I gave a half-smile. “Well, that’s very kind of you, but I’m not looking for anything too extravagant and Candy isn’t either. A simple wedding will do just fine.”

“Well, if you change your mind,” she sighed before walking into the storeroom.

I shook my head at her with a little smirk. I know she meant well, but I was telling the truth. I didn’t care how big the wedding was as long as I was marrying the man I loved. I couldn’t believe that in less than two weeks, I was to be Mrs. Candy Canaday. It seemed like those last few months just flew by. I still remember when Candy proposed to me on Christmas. It was the greatest gift I had ever received.

We had decided on a Spring wedding in a church. Ben offered for us to get married on the Ponderosa, but I’ve dreamed about a church wedding ever since I was a little girl. “You heard my fiancée, Ben,” Candy quipped and a Church wedding it was.

The Cartwrights had been more than generous when Ben gave Candy a piece of his land as a gift. Candy of course didn’t waste any time getting started on our house with the help of Joe and Jamie.

Pretty soon, the house was nearly complete. Everything was falling into place. If only I could have found the perfect dress. My thoughts were soon interrupted when I heard tapping on the window. I turned and saw Candy wave to me through the window. I flashed a little smirk with a shake of my head and headed outside.

I stepped outside and felt a hand grab hold of my own. Candy pulled me towards him and I landed in his arms, giggling. His lips touched mine as I wrapped my arms around him.

After I pulled away, I asked, “What are you doing here? I told you I don’t get off work until four.”

“I know,” he sighed. “But I couldn’t stand being away from you another minute.”

I shook my head with a little smirk and brushed my hand over his chest. “Well, you will just have to wait a few more hours.”

The corners of his mouth dropped down into a little pout in which I kissed. He informed me, “Joe and Alice invited us on a picnic lunch tomorrow.”

“That sounds wonderful.” Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Mrs. Burton had come back from the storeroom through the window. I turned to Candy and asked, “See you later?”

He nodded with a smile. We exchanged another kiss that lingered before he pulled away and mounted his horse. I laid my head against the post as I watched him ride off down the street.

While I couldn’t wait to be married to him, I also felt a little guilty. There was a part of my past I had kept hidden from him. I wrestled with it for so long. I told myself he didn’t need to know; that he was better off not knowing who I was. Part of me also feared that if I did tell him, he might not look at me in the same way or want anything to do with me anymore. I didn’t want to take that chance. I couldn’t. He was too good of a man to hurt.

I heard Mrs. Burton calling out to me and I went back inside the store.

***

The next afternoon, Candy and I sat at a picnic table having lunch with our friends, Joe and Alice next to our nearly completed home. Alice had prepared a feast for us; fried chicken, biscuits, and peach cobbler for dessert. All while being nearly six months pregnant.

After Joe and Candy playfully teased and joked with each other as they usually did, Candy picked up his glass and got our attention.

“I’d like to propose a toast. To good food, good friends….” Candy glanced over at me and smiled. “And to Hannah, my beautiful fiancée, for making me the happiest man alive by agreeing to be my wife. And who I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with.” A warm smile escaped my lips. Candy raised his glass. “Here’s to our new life together.”

“Here, here!” Joe cheered and we all clinked our glasses together before taking a drink.

After I placed my glass down, I glanced over at little Sara Marie, Joe and Alice’s daughter, nodding off in her high chair. She looked almost like a little angel in her pink bonnet.

I got Alice’s attention and pointed to Sara. “I think we may have bored her to sleep,” I giggled.

Alice looked over at Sara and chuckled. “Oh. It’s just past her naptime,” she said.

Joe rose from his chair. “We better head back. I’m sure Pa has more work for me to do and if not I’m sure he’ll find something,” he snickered.

Candy shook his head. “Not me. He gave me the day off.” Candy took hold of my hand. “And I’d like to spend it with my fiancee,” he said as he rose from his chair. 

“We’ll see you,” Joe said as he helped Alice out of her chair. 

We cleaned up the picnic table and gathered the leftovers before we parted ways. 

***

Later, Candy took me to a spot on the Ponderosa near the lake. We held hands as we came up to the edge of the lake, taking in the view. I glanced over at Candy, trying to read his thoughts. As I stared back out into the lake, I broke the silence between us. 

“It’s really beautiful out here, isn’t it?” 

“Yeah. It’s almost as beautiful as you.” I rolled my eyes up at him and saw him flash that dazzling smile of his at me. He could be very charming. As he looked out into the lake, he told me, “It’ll be like this all the time for us. Buggy rides, picnics…” 

I gave him a warm smile when he turned to me and took hold of my hand. “I don’t have much to offer you. I’m not wealthy like the Cartwrights.” 

I couldn’t fathom the things he was telling me. “Candy, you know none of that matters to me.” 

His lips formed a small smile. “I know. I can’t give you everything, but I’m sure gonna try.” 

I stared into his eyes. “I believe you.” 

He flashed another big smile and said, “I love you.” 

I repeated the words to him before we each leaned our heads forward. Right before his lips touched mine, I heard the familiar voice of a man calling for me with a name I had so desperately wanted to forget. 

Ellie May!” 

Candy and I whipped our heads to the left of us and saw a rider approaching. My eyes soon widened when I was able to see his face clearly. 

He dismounted his horse and took a few steps towards us. “I never thought I’d see you again, Ellie.” 

My whole body tensed at the sight of him. I couldn’t even form words when Candy spoke. “I think you’ve got the wrong girl, mister, her name is Hannah.” 

With his eyes fixed on me, he remarked, “You’re just as pretty as I remember you, El.” 

I stared at him and trembled, “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” 

He moved closer to me. “There’s no use pretending anymore, Ellie. I know it’s you. Why hide it?” 

Candy held his hand up to him. “Look, fella, I don’t know who you are, but I think you better leave. Now,” he urged. 

I could have kept up the act, but I knew it was no use. My shoulders sank down and I asked, “How did you find me?” 

“That doesn’t matter,” he said. “What matters is I found you and I’ve come to take you back.” 

“I’m not going back, Wade,” I declared. “I’m through with that kind of life.” 

He lurked towards me. “I want you back, Ellie. I came all this way just to see you. And I’m not leaving here without you.” 

Candy moved in front of me and grabbed Wade’s shoulder. “You’re not going anywhere with her.” 

Wade swung his fist into Candy’s face and knocked him down. I gasped when Candy shot back up again and Wade pulled his gun on him. 

“Wade, stop it!” I shouted. “Leave him alone, he hasn’t done anything to you! I want you to leave now.” 

“All right. If that’s the way you want it.” Wade placed his gun back in its holster and mounted his horse. “You haven’t seen the last of me, Ellie. I’m coming back for you. 

He steered his horse and rode off. I closed my eyes and took a breath before I touched Candy’s face and asked him if he was all right. 

“Yeah.” He stared daggers in the direction that Wade rode off and remarked, “Real friendly fella, isn’t he?” 

I turned around and took a few steps towards the oak tree near us. I heard Candy ask, “Why did he call you Ellie? Who is he?” 

I pressed my lips together in a firm line as I fought tears. “I didn’t want you to find out this way.” 

“Find out what?” I struggled to find the words to explain to him. Candy took hold of my shoulders and turned me to face him. “Hannah, what are you not telling me?” 

I took a deep breath. “My real name is Ellie Cooper. I had it changed to Hannah Bowman just before I moved to Virginia City.” 

Candy paused and repeated his previous question. “Who is he?” 

His name is Wade Collins,” I sighed. “I was engaged to be married to him.” 

Candy’s eyes widened as he stared at me in disbelief. The shock soon wore off and he spoke. “You were engaged to him?” 

My words came out in a rush. “Candy, I’m so sorry I didn’t tell you. There were so many times I wanted to.” 

“Why didn’t you?” he asked. 

“Because I was…afraid. I was a different person then, Candy. It was a very painful time in my life and I wanted to forget it. When I moved here to Virginia City, I thought it was a chance to start over again. A chance to move on in a new town with a new name.” 

I could see by the look on his face, Candy was struggling to make sense of it all. His next question caught me off guard. “Did you love him?” 

I couldn’t lie to him. “Yes. I did once. Then I found out about his little escapades. He was a gambler. He got involved with the worst kinds of people. One of them being the notorious criminal, Doc Holliday.” 

Candy scrunched his eyebrows. “Doc Holliday?” 

“He’s supposed to be one of the fastest and most clever gunslingers that ever lived. He’s killed dozens of people. He’s also a very skilled gambler. He caught Wade trying to cheat him or at least he claims he tried to. Doc placed a bounty on his head and he’s been on the run ever since. I wouldn’t go with him. He became like a stranger to me, so I left him. I didn’t want him to find me so I changed my name and moved away from Silver City. Now, I don’t know how, but he’s found me.” 

Candy sighed and rubbed the back of his head. “Well, he certainly doesn’t take rejection well.” He moved his hands over his hips. 

“I really am sorry, Candy. I hope you can understand why I didn’t tell you.”

“Well, Hannah or…Ellie. The only thing I understand is that you lied to me.” 

“I didn’t lie to you.” 

“Hannah, you tried to deny that you knew who he was.” 

I hung my head down, riddled with guilt. I never should have done that, it only made things worse. 

“Candy, I’m sorry, I didn’t mean…” I attempted to move closer to him, but he took a step back. 

He signed. “Look, I think maybe we should take some time to think things over before we…” 

“No, please…” 

“I’m sorry. I can’t deal with this right now, I’m sorry,” he said in a soft tone before he walked off in the direction of the ranch. 

I begged and pleaded with him. “Candy, please, I didn’t want to hurt you!” 

It was no use. I cupped my hands over my face and sobbed as I slid down the oak tree and onto the ground. My chest heaving–my heart breaking. The look of hurt and betrayal on his face. It was as if I drove a knife through his heart. I should have just told him the truth from the beginning; maybe he would have understood. But since Wade had shown up, maybe he felt I still had feelings for him. But that couldn’t have been further from the truth. 

I lifted my head from my hands when I heard a rider approaching. Anger welled up inside of me when I saw that it was Wade. He dismounted his horse and came up to me. 

“Where’s that fella you were with?” he asked. 

“He left,” I seethed. “All because of you.” 

“There’s no need to get angry with me now, El.” 

“Don’t call me that!” I shouted before I pushed myself up off the ground. “Why did you have to come back now?” I cried. 

“I told you why. I came back because I love you and I want us to get married like we planned to.” 

I glared at him in disbelief. “It’s too late now. I’m engaged to someone else. I don’t love you anymore, Wade. You were the one who threw me away, don’t you remember?” 

“Aw, come on, El, that’s all in the past. Things are different now.” 

“It’s Hannah now,” I corrected. Hannah Bowman. Soon to be Canaday.” 

“And what does this Canaday have that I don’t, huh?” 

I held my chin up to him. “Honor.” 

He kept a stern gaze on me. “Look,” he huffed. “I know I made mistakes, but I paid for those mistakes. Just give me a chance.” 

I shook my head. “No. You can’t just walk back into my life and expect me to forget everything that happened between us.” 

He moved closer to me. “I know there’s a part of you that still loves me. I know you, Ellie.” 

My breath shuddered when he grabbed hold of my shoulders and kissed me. I wondered if I ever did see Wade again if the love I had for him was still there. But when he kissed me, I felt what I thought I would feel. Nothing. I shoved him off with a grunt. 

“Keep away from me, Wade. I mean it!” 

I ran off down the dirt road and heard Wade yell, “I’m not giving up on you, Ellie May!” 

I kept running as fast as I could. I knew I had to talk to Candy. I only hoped I hadn’t lost him forever. 

Chapter Two

(Candy)

I whipped past the trees in a fury until I came to a stop near Wishing Creek; a place I took Hannah on more than one occasion. I paced back and forth as I brushed my fingers through my hair, trying to make sense of the last few months. So many emotions hit me at once. Anger, hurt, betrayal. The girl I loved was not the girl I thought she was. I knew she had been hiding something from me, but I couldn’t figure out what it was exactly. 

On the one hand, I was also hit with guilt over leaving her the way I did. I could hear her crying out to me, but I didn’t want to listen. I was too angry with her—too hurt to want to listen to her. I knew I should have gone back to her; make sure she was all right, but I hesitated and headed in the direction of the Ponderosa instead. 

After I made it to the ranch, I explained everything that happened to Ben and Joe. Ben was seated at his desk while Joe was sitting on the coffee table with his feet up on the settee, chomping away on an apple. He was chewing so loudly I could barely hear myself talk let alone think. 

“I just can’t believe it,” I scowled. “I mean I thought I knew this girl and now it’s like I don’t even know her at all. She’s a completely different person to me now.” 

Ben spoke. “Well, not entirely. She’s still the same girl you fell in love with, the same girl you wanted to marry. Her having a different name doesn’t change that.” 

I crossed my arms. “Maybe it does.” 

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Joe asked. 

“It means that…maybe we should call off the wedding.” 

I held my gaze on the floor, but I could sense by their silence that Ben and Joe were looking at each other, thinking how much I was jumping to conclusions. And why not? What if she still loved this man? Wouldn’t it be better just to end things now between us and get it over with? 

I heard Ben say, “Now, let’s not make any rash decisions. After all, this is the woman you love.” 

“Yeah, but she lied to me!”  

“Okay, she lied to you!” Joe exclaimed. “That’s no reason to call off the wedding.” 

I sighed in irritation. “Joe, if Alice had revealed something like this to you, wouldn’t you have reacted the way I did?” 

Joe shook his head. “No, I wouldn’t. I loved her too much to just throw it all away. I would have married her anyway.” 

I took a few steps near the settee as I let out a sigh. “I don’t know what to do.” 

Ben said, “Well, Candy, it’s obvious she has her reasons for why she didn’t tell you. But I don’t believe it was done out of any malice towards you. She loves you too much to hurt you.” 

“I know. But how do I know she hasn’t lied to me about anything else? I was honest with her about my past.”

Ben cocked one eyebrow towards me. “Really? That you were married?” 

“Yes.” 

Ben pressed, “That you tried to pursue that same woman even though she had remarried?” 

“Ann was my wife and I loved her,” I snapped. “In my mind we were still married. It took me a long time to get over her, but I accepted that it was over between us and I let her go.” 

“Nevertheless. Did she react the way you are now?” 

“No, she didn’t care about any of it.”

“Well, if she’s willing to forget about your past, can you be willing to forget hers?” 

Ben was making a whole lot of sense, but my stubbornness and pride didn’t want to hear any of it. 

Ben added, “Candy, I know you feel that she betrayed your trust and she did. But you’re also overlooking the reasons why she didn’t tell you. Because she loves you and doesn’t want to hurt you. So, now the question is…do you still love her?” 

“Yeah, I still love her.” 

“Then talk to her. Right now she probably feels that she lost the one person she cares deeply about. Whoever that man was, she never cared for him in the way she cares about you or else she wouldn’t have agreed to marry you.” 

I sighed, “Yeah, you’re right. I was a little rough on her. I left her in a pretty bad way, I should probably go talk to her.” 

Ben gave a small smile. “Good idea.” 

Joe removed his boots from the settee and asked, “Who is this Wade fella anyway?” 

Joe took another bite of his apple and I answered, “Well, from what Hannah told me he was a gambler. He got involved with some dangerous people. He even has a bounty on his head from some fella named…Doc Holliday.” 

I could tell by the look on both Ben and Joe’s faces that they’ve heard of this Doc Holliday fella before and he was not one to tangle with. Ben uttered, “Not him again.” 

I scrunched my eyebrows in curiosity. “Why? You’ve heard of him?” 

Ben sighed. “I wish I hadn’t. We met him years ago. He nearly killed Joe over a girl.” 

“She must have been some girl,” I cracked. 

Joe scoffed. “You’re telling me. She called herself Calamity Jane. She was a real spitfire that Cal.” 

“And this Doc Holliday wanted to kill you for her?” I commented. 

“Yeah.” Joe lifted his gaze towards the ceiling. “You know, I still think I could have taken him.” 

Joe took another bite of his apple while Ben glanced over at him with one raised eyebrow and retorted, “Oh, sure. If your brother Hoss hadn’t knocked you out cold, you would be dead right now.” 

Joe shrugged his shoulders. I’ll admit, Joe is pretty good with a gun, so I’d pay good money to see him square off with Doc Holliday. 

“I wonder what happened to her?” Joe wondered. 

Ben grumbled, “I don’t know. But I do know that I don’t want us getting mixed up with the likes of Doc Holliday ever again. That includes you, Candy,” he noted. 

I held my hands up. “Hey, you don’t have to worry about me. I don’t think I want a bounty put on my head, thanks.” I moved one hand over my hip and with my other hand, I rubbed my temple. “I should go find Hannah.” 

Joe stated, “I hope you two work this out. I was kind of looking forward to being a best man.” 

I scoffed with a small smile. “I’ll see you later.” 

After I left the house, I saddled Scout in the barn.

“Candy?” 

I turned and saw Hannah standing at the barn doors. “I think we should talk,” she said. 

“Yeah, we should.” I laid my saddle down and moved out of the stall. “I was actually on my way to see you.” 

She stepped inside the barn. “You were?” 

“Yeah, I was hoping we could work things out.” 

“Oh, Candy, I just feel terrible about this whole thing,” she cried. 

“I know you do. I never should have left you like that, it was wrong of me and I’m sorry. I just needed some time.” 

“I know. But I was telling you the truth when I said I never intended to hurt you, Candy. I would never do that to you.” 

“I believe you. I guess I was afraid that with this Wade showing back up in your life that maybe you still loved him.” 

“I don’t. In fact Wade only confirmed it. I love you, Candy. It’s you that I want, not Wade. And I do still want to marry you, if you’ll have me.” 

“Well…I do have one question.” 

She tilted her head slightly to the right. “What’s that?” 

“Can I still call you Hannah? I mean, Ellie is a fine name, but I don’t know her. Hannah is the girl I fell in love with.” 

“I would prefer that name,” she said. 

“Good, because I need to know what to have the reverend call you at the altar because having two names is just too confusing.” I saw a smile appear on her face as I rambled on. “And Joe’s been really looking forward to being a best man and I’d hate to disappoint him.” 

“Oh, Candy.” 

Next thing I knew, she was in my arms. I held her close with a big smile on my face. “I love you,” I said as I stroked her hair. 

I pulled away and kissed her before she said, “But Wade…he’s not going to give up.”

I gently took hold of her face and stared into her eyes. “Don’t you worry about him. He’s not gonna come between us again, I’ll make sure of it.” 

She nodded with a faint smile. I kissed her again before I took her hands in mine. “Come on. Let’s go tell everyone the news.”

I rushed through the door of the Ponderosa, holding onto Hannah’s hand as I called out to Ben and Joe. 

Ben descended the staircase while Joe hurried out of the kitchen, both wondering what the fuss was about. I turned to Hannah and said, “Hannah and I have an announcement to make.” Ben and Joe gave me their full attention. I then announced, “We’re getting married!” 

Ben and Joe exchanged glances. Joe bit down on his lip and crossed his arms. “Yes, we already knew that,” he remarked. 

“No,” I chuckled. “I mean, the wedding is still on.” 

Ben chuckled and congratulated me and Hannah along with Joe. Ben said, “This calls for a celebration. An engagement party right here at the Ponderosa.” 

“Hey, count me in,” Joe elated. “I’m sure Alice would love to come.” 

Suddenly Hop Sing came rushing out of the kitchen, muttering in Chinese. He snapped, “Why everybody yelling?” 

“Oh, Hop Sing.” Ben placed his hand over his shoulder. “We’re gonna have ourselves a party right here at the Ponderosa to celebrate Candy and Hannah’s engagement. How does that sound?” 

Hop Sing’s mouth gaped open. “A party? How can Hop Sing cook you food for party, when you not eat food Hop Sing cook you for supper?”

Ben glanced over at all of us while trying to keep from laughing. “You’re right, Hop Sing. We’ll be along for supper in a few minutes.” 

Hop Sing shook his finger at Ben. “You better. Or else you find new cook for party.” 

He stomped back into the kitchen. Ben raised his eyebrows as he strolled over to us. “I think we better eat supper before Hop Sing threatens to quit again.” He moved his gaze over to me and Hannah. “You’re welcome to join us.” 

Hannah smiled. “We would love to.” 

Joe informed us, “I would, but I’m sure Alice has supper waiting for me and depending on what kind of mood she’s in, it’s best I’m not late. I’ll see ya.” 

We all said our goodbyes to Joe and Hannah and I then joined Ben and Jamie for supper. 

***

The night of the party, Ben went all out for me and Hannah. The whole Ponderosa was decorated with balloons, flowers—the works. There was also a band and a table filled with enough food fit for a king. The Cartwrights always knew how to throw a good party. 

Ben had invited all of our friends and neighbors for the occasion. I danced with Hannah in the middle of the living room along with a few other couples, including Joe and Alice. The music stopped and Ben made his way over to us. 

“Well, are you having a good time?” he asked. 

“Yes, we’re having a wonderful time, Mr. Cartwright,” Hannah replied with a smile. 

I took hold of Hannah’s hand and said, “I thought I would take Hannah outside for a little while.” 

“Well, the party will still be here when you get back,” Ben remarked. 

After our conversation, I snuck Hannah out the door. 

Outside, we made our way over to the hitching post. Hannah placed her hands over the post and turned to me. “Why did you bring me out here?” she asked. 

I glided my hand along the post. “Well, I thought maybe you’d like some time alone.” 

She gave a faint smile. “The Cartwrights certainly went through a lot of trouble for us.” 

With eyebrows slightly raised, I told her, “You should have seen what they did for my birthday.” 

She perked up with intrigue. “What did they do?” 

I folded my arms over the post. “Well, shortly after I started working for the Cartwrights, I sort of mentioned it to Ben and next thing I knew he, Hoss and Joe surprised me with a birthday party. They went all out with balloons, cake, everything. It was the corniest thing I ever saw. But it meant everything in the world to me. They treated me as if I was one of their own. I haven’t forgotten about that day and I never will.” 

Hannah smiled and asked, “When is your birthday?” 

I shook my head. “Oh no. I’m not about to tell you that.” 

She chucked, softly. “Why not? If we’re going to be married, I should know these things.” 

“Because I hate surprises,” I noted. 

She brushed her hand along my arm as she leaned closer to me. “Well, we’ll just have to fix that, won’t we?” 

A grin escaped my lips and we kissed. She pulled away and stared into my eyes before she moved her gaze to the ground. My smile faded and I could tell something was troubling her. 

“Candy…I feel I should explain to you why I didn’t tell you my real name. When I was…” 

“No. You don’t have to explain anything to me.” 

“I know that, but…” 

“Hannah, whatever you did in the past, it doesn’t matter to me. What matters is who you are now.” 

I could tell by the expression on her face that it was exactly what she needed to hear. I took hold of her hand and suggested, “Hey, why don’t I bring the party out here?” 

“All right,” she said with a smile. 

“I’ll go get us some punch.” I pointed my finger at her. “Stay there. Don’t move.” 

She giggled and I gave her a quick kiss before I went back inside the house. 

When I returned with the punch however, I heard Hannah shouting. I lifted my head and saw Wade with his hands on Hannah’s shoulders which set me off. I dropped the glasses of punch from my hands and lunged at Wade. 

I pulled him away from Hannah and took a swing at him. As he laid there on the ground, I pointed my finger towards his brown-coated horse. 

“I want you to get on that horse and I want you to ride out of here, now,” I urged. 

Wade snarled, “I don’t think so.” 

My eyes widened as I saw Wade reach for his gun. I heard Hannah scream as I leapt out of the way of the gunfire. 

I shot right back up and tackled Wade, knocking the gun from his hand. I wrestled with him on the ground until I was yanked away by Joe. I thrashed around and fought against Joe’s firm grasp around my shoulders. 

Ben took hold of Wade and pulled him up by his shirt collar. “All right, what’s this about? Who are you and what are you doing on my land?” he demanded. 

I calmed myself down and snapped, “I’m all right.” 

Joe loosened his grip on me and Hannah answered, “This is Wade, Mr. Cartwright. And I want him to leave now.” 

Ben turned to Wade. “Well, you heard the lady. Now, I kindly ask you to leave this property.”  

Wade shouted, “You stay out of this, Cartwright! This ain’t any of your concern.” 

“Oh, really,” Ben questioned. “Well, Candy works for me and you’re both on my property, so I say it is my concern. Now, I want you off my land now before I bring the sheriff out here to force you off.” 

Wade started to move towards Ben when Joe whipped his gun out and pointed it at Wade. “Don’t even try it.” 

Wade glared at me before he grabbed hold of the reins of his horse and mounted onto it. “You’re gonna regret this, Cartwright,” he scowled. 

After he rode off, I felt Hannah brush her hand against my cheek. She asked, “Are you all right?” 

My chest heaved, but her soft touch calmed me back down again. “Yeah.” 

She wrapped her arms around me and gently laid her head against my shoulder. Ben said, “Let’s not let this little disturbance ruin our evening. Why don’t we go back inside? We don’t want to leave our guests.” 

***

After the party was over and the guests had left, I paced back and forth in the living room, still fuming over what happened with Hannah and Wade. 

“That man just won’t give up, he insists on taking Hannah away from me.” 

Ben stood in front of his desk. “Well, we’re not going to let him,” he said. 

I glanced over at Ben. “I appreciate it, Ben, but I don’t want to drag you and Joe into my fight. It’s my problem to deal with, not yours.” 

Ben shrugged his shoulders as he crossed his arms. “Well, as far as Joe and I are concerned, it is our fight.” 

Joe smiled as he came up to me and patted me on the shoulder. “That’s right, you’re family, remember?” 

A smile escaped from my lips. “Right. So what are we gonna do?” 

Ben answered, “Well, we’ll have to come up with a plan to get Wade to stop pursuing Hannah.” 

“Like what?” I asked. 

Ben sighed. “That’s a very good question.” Ben paused and tilted his head to the right. “Unless…” 

My head snapped up. “What?” 

“Well, Hannah did mention that Wade had a bounty on him from Doc Holliday, didn’t she?” 

“Yeah, why?” 

Ben shook his finger. “Well, what if Wade knew that Doc Holliday was right here in Virginia City waiting for him? Wouldn’t he want to leave town as quickly as possible?” 

“Sure he would, but why would you want Doc Holliday here? You told me he was somebody not to mess around with.” 

With his eyebrows slightly raised, Ben responded, “The last thing I would want is Doc Holliday here in Virginia City, no, what I’m simply suggesting is that…what if Wade “thinks” that Doc Holliday is here in Virginia City. He would want to run as far away from Virginia City as he possibly could.” 

His idea made sense, but I still had my doubts. “You think it would work?” 

“If he truly is afraid of Doc Holliday, then he would.” 

“But what about Hannah? He’d want to take her with him.” 

“As soon as he hears Doc Holliday is in town, he won’t even think about Hannah. He’ll be fearing for his life.” 

“Well, it’s worth a shot as long as Hannah doesn’t get hurt in the middle of it.” 

“She won’t,” Ben assured me. “We’ll make sure of that. Right now, let’s get to bed. We’ll discuss more of it in the morning.” 

After our discussion, Hannah and Alice emerged from the kitchen. I awkwardly made my way over to her as I rubbed the back of my neck. 

“Well…that was some party, huh?” 

She laughed at that. It was nice to know, like me, she could still find the humor in things. We said goodbye to Ben, Joe, and Alice before heading back to the boarding house. 

I hoped Ben’s plan would work; that it would make Wade forget about Hannah and leave Virginia City. The trouble was, he didn’t look like the type of fella who gave in too easily. But I had news for him. Neither was I. 

Chapter Three

(Hannah) 

I hovered over my bed as I sorted through the laundry. Mrs. Burton let me have the afternoon off, so I thought I would spend it helping Mrs. Sutton with the chores. I needed something to occupy my mind away from my troubles with Wade. Mr. Cartwright had work for Candy to do at the Ponderosa, but Candy promised he would stop by and see me later that afternoon. 

Candy told me of Mr. Cartwright’s plan to stop Wade from pursuing me. The truth was they didn’t know Wade as well as I did. He was very stubborn. But despite his many flaws, I did have happy memories of Wade. He was a good man once. It was the drinking and gambling during our engagement that turned him into a different person. I had to get away. I wished he had never found me. Then I could start my new life with the man I do love.  

My thoughts were interrupted by the door opening. It was Mrs. Sutton. 

“Oh, I’m sorry if I disturbed you, dear.” 

“Oh, not at all, Mrs. Sutton.” I fumbled with the bed sheet in my hands and laid it down on the bed. I then smoothed out my skirt and walked over to her. “Is there anything I can help you with?” 

“Oh, no, I just came to check on you. Is everything all right?” 

“Not, not really,” I confessed. 

“Do you want to talk about it? Sometimes talking about your troubles helps.” 

Mrs. Sutton took a seat on the bed. I hesitated before I answered, “I suppose you’re right.” 

I took a seat next to her and she asked, “I take it that it has something to do with Candy?” 

“Well, partially, yes.” 

She rolled her eyes with a sigh. “Did you two have a fight?” 

“No,” I replied. 

“Well, whatever it is, I’m sure you’ll work it out somehow,” she said as she patted my hand. “I see how much you love him. If your love for each other is that strong, nothing can tear it apart.” 

I gave a faint smile as I held back tears. She was right. My love for Candy was strong. I couldn’t let Wade destroy that. I thanked her and she got up from the bed. 

“Now that that’s settled, there’s something I want to show you. Come along with me now, dear.” 

I rose from the bed with crinkled eyebrows and followed her out of the bedroom. 

She led me into her bedroom and went over to the closet. I stood at the doorway and watched her with curiosity. She pulled out a beautiful, though a little worn, snow-white dress. She brought it over and held it up to me. “This was my wedding dress,” she said. “It seems like ages ago now since I’ve worn it.” 

“It’s very beautiful.” I touched the fabric with my fingertips. “I’m sure you made a very lovely bride.” 

She smiled and looked down at the dress. “Even though my Arthur has been gone for nearly five years now, I still remember the day we were married; almost like it was yesterday.” She shifted her gaze over to me. “I know how special that day can be. That’s why I would like you to have it.” 

I stared at her in disbelief. “What?” 

“I know you hadn’t picked out a dress yet and I remembered I had a perfectly good one right here in my closet that I have no use for anymore. Please, you’d be doing me a great favor, dear.” 

I was so moved by her gesture, I couldn’t even form words. “I don’t know what to say.” 

“Don’t say anything at all,” she told me as she handed the dress to me. “I wish you and Candy all the best.” 

I smiled warmly at her and she kissed my cheek. “You won’t say anything to Candy will you?” I asked. 

“Not a word,” she promised. 

After she left the bedroom, I glanced over at the mirror near the dresser and walked over to it. I held the dress close to me as I looked at my reflection in the mirror and a smile escaped from my lips. I had begun to give up hope that there would even be a wedding, but Mrs. Sutton’s gift was enough to restore that hope again. 

***

The next few days were calm with no return from Wade. Mr. Cartwright’s plan was working. The rumor of Doc Holliday was spread all over town and Wade was nowhere in sight. Maybe he really was gone for good that time; I could only hope. 

One afternoon, Candy and I were walking along the trail of Salt Creek, holding hands. I had been silent for most of our day together and Candy took notice of that. 

“Is there something on your mind?” he asked. 

I fixed my gaze on the ground and hesitated to respond. “Why do you ask that?” 

He slid both of his hands inside his pockets. “Because you’ve hardly said a word since we left the boarding house.” My silence lingered on. Candy added, “If it’s about Wade, then I wouldn’t worry. We haven’t seen him since the night of the party, so that’s a good sign.” 

It wasn’t so much Wade as it was the urge to confess everything from my past to him. I didn’t want to hide anything from him any longer. He needed to know the truth. 

I took a breath. “Candy…I know you said you didn’t care what I did in my past, but I still feel I owe you an explanation.” 

“You don’t,” he stated. 

I nervously rubbed the palms of my hands together. “I know, but I really think I should. It might help ease my conscience.” 

Candy pressed his lips together. “All right.” 

We came up to a creek bed and I took his hand, leading him over to it. We each took a seat on the rocks and I took a deep breath. 

“I told you before I met you that my life was complicated. I’ve done things that I’m so ashamed of.” 

“It can’t be that bad,” Candy said. 

“It is.” I hung my head down and revealed, “When I was engaged to Wade, I took a lot of different jobs to help pay Wade’s gambling debts. One of them being a saloon girl.” 

Candy snickered, “So? I’ve known a few saloon girls in my time, I was even engaged to one once.” 

I lifted my head up. “You were?” 

“Yeah. She was quite a lady. But I was a drifter—moving from one place to the next. I knew that wouldn’t be much of a life for her, so we ended things.” 

If only it had been that simple with Wade, I thought. Candy crossed his arms and asked, “Is that what was so hard to tell me? Because if you’re trying to give me cold feet, you’re gonna have to do a lot better than that.” 

“There is more,” I hesitated. “The men at that saloon were awful. Always drunk, always fighting, shooting—killing. I hated that place. But I needed money. Entertaining was part of the job. I held off every man for as long as I could because I wanted to stay faithful to Wade. Then one day, I saw Wade through the window of a saloon he always played poker at with a woman. He was laughing with her— her hands were all over him. I had no doubt he was drunk. I was so angry that night, I had a few drinks myself. I’m not proud of it. That’s when I met a man who offered me a drink. I don’t even remember his name. I just remember going into the hotel and taking the money he offered me…” I felt the tears coming, but I held them back as I swallowed. “I let him take advantage of me because I wanted Wade to feel what I felt. But it only made it worse. After I left the hotel the next morning, I confronted Wade; he denied there was anything between them. I’m not even sure I believed him. I just knew I had done a terrible thing to him. I stayed with him because despite everything that happened, I still loved him. Although I think it was more the guilt of what I’d done. Then when Doc had the bounty placed on Wade’s head, I knew I needed to leave him. I changed my name so Wade wouldn’t find me, but it was more for the fact that I didn’t like what I had become, so I left that town and never looked back. So you see, I’m not the girl you thought I was, Candy.” 

“No.” 

I lifted my head up and searched his eyes. “You’re so much more than that,” he said. I stared at him wide-eyed in disbelief. Candy challenged, “You know, I think this…Ellie wasn’t as bad as you make her out to be. In fact, I don’t think she’s that much different than who you are now.” 

“How can you say that?” I cried. “I told you I wanted to hurt Wade for what he did, but what I did was worse, much worse.” 

“You wanted revenge,” Candy stressed. “It was a mistake, you’re human. You shouldn’t punish yourself for it.” 

Maybe I was punishing myself. I moved my gaze to the ground and felt Candy take hold of my hand. “When I look at you…I see a warm, kind—pretty, and caring woman. I’m sure that person was there all along, she just needed to find her.” 

It seemed Candy’s words breathed new life into me. I stared at him with tears running down my cheeks. “I suppose I never really thought about it that way.” 

He smiled at me before he brought my hand up to him and gave it a tender kiss. His next words caught me off guard. “As long as we’re being honest with each other, there is something I never told you.” 

I tilted my head slightly as I looked at him with intrigue. 

“I told you about Ann. But what I didn’t tell you was that we had actually crossed paths again a few years ago. Like you, seeing her again brought back all of those memories of being at that Fort. I realized I still loved her. The only problem was she had remarried—to a captain. I was certain Ann still loved me, so I did everything I could to get her to see that. However, Ben caught onto my little scheme. I knew it was wrong, but I didn’t care. In my mind, Ann was still my wife. It didn’t matter to me that she found someone else.” 

A shiver went up my spine as I thought of Wade. It was hard not to notice the similarities. 

“Anyway, I finally came to my senses and let her go.” 

“I hope Wade will come to his,” I said, softly. 

Candy scoffed with a half-smile. “I guess I can understand how he feels.” He lifted his head up to me and held out his hand. “Come on.” 

I took his hand and we left Salt Creek, more in love with each other than ever before. 

***

While I was relieved I had told Candy the truth, when we returned to the Ponderosa however, things seemed dim for us yet again. 

After Candy helped me down from the buggy, we wandered over to Ben and Joe who stood in front of the stable near the barn. They greeted us with a smile before Ben sent Candy to help one of his hands, Lucas. Candy told me he wouldn’t be long and for me to wait there for him. When Candy left, Ben and Joe’s smiles faded in an instant. I knew something was wrong. 

Ben looked me in the eye and said, “We have a problem.” 

I feared the worst. “What is it?” 

“We spoke with Sheriff Coffee in town and he told us that Doc Holliday arrived in Virginia City just yesterday afternoon.” 

My breath caught in my throat. “What? What’s he doing here?” 

“We don’t know. But with him being back here now, Sheriff Coffee wants us to be cautious. So I need you to promise me that you won’t tell Candy that he’s here. At least until things settle down,” Ben cautioned. 

I crinkled my eyebrows in confusion. “Why? We have to tell him.” 

Joe spoke. “She’s right, I think we should tell him.” 

Ben gave a deep sigh. “Joseph, I already told you, we can’t.” 

“But Pa, it’s like we don’t trust him.” 

“I do trust him, Joe, I trust Candy with my life, you know that. But he’s too much like you, Joe. I don’t want him going off all half-cocked, getting himself killed.” 

I was amazed watching them argue back and forth for the simple fact that they were treating Candy as if he were one of their own. They were both fighting to protect him in different ways. I had a feeling I wasn’t just gaining a husband—I was gaining a family. 

“Pa, he’s my best friend, I have to tell him.” 

Before Ben could say another word, I interrupted them. “Don’t I get a say in this matter? Candy is my fiancé after all.” 

Ben glanced over at me with a faint smile. “Of course you do.” 

“I appreciate what you’re trying to do, but you don’t know Wade like I do. I can handle Wade and I can handle Doc. Doc was one of the frequent visitors of the saloon where I worked when I was Ellie. Now as much as I hate keeping any secrets from Candy, I think it’s best we wait until we know what Doc is planning. But I should be the one to tell him, Mr. Cartwright; not you or Joe. All right?”

Ben took a brief pause before he agreed. And while Joe was still reluctant, he agreed as well. 

When Candy returned, Ben advised us to stay away from town for a while until we knew for sure that things with Wade had settled down. Candy of course didn’t think it was necessary, but when I urged him to listen, he reluctantly agreed. 

I hated keeping more secrets from Candy even if it was to protect him. But I also knew who we were dealing with and I didn’t want Candy being caught in the middle of it—or worse. 

So, I went back into town and gathered my things. Mr. Cartwright had allowed me to stay at the Ponderosa with Candy for the time being—separate rooms of course. I wasn’t sure what Doc was planning, but I knew it wasn’t good. 

***

The next morning, I visited Joe’s wife, Alice, at their house while Candy helped Joe repair the north fence that had broken down overnight. The day had been quiet and peaceful with no sign of Wade or Doc. I figured maybe Doc’s visit had nothing to do with Wade, but the fear still lingered. 

Alice folded laundry while I sat down at the kitchen table having a cup of tea. I couldn’t help but notice how radiant Alice looked. Of course that happens with all expectant mothers. Candy and I had talked about children. We both wanted a whole bushel of them. I pictured a little boy with wavy brown hair and baby blue eyes, running around; bearing a striking resemblance to his father. 

I shifted my thoughts back to reality and looked up at Alice. “I want to thank you for inviting me in on such short notice.” 

Alice smiled as she folded another bedsheet. “It’s all right. I don’t mind the company and as a friend you’re always welcome here.” 

“Thank you. I could use a friend.” I traced my finger along the rim of my teacup. “I pray this is all over. That Wade is gone for good this time. I just want to move on and start my new life with Candy. He’s been so kind and gracious with me throughout this whole thing.” 

“That’s because he loves you,” Alice said. 

“And I love him,” I repeated, softly. 

I glanced up at Alice and noticed she had stopped folding the laundry. She wiped the sweat from her brow; her face looking a bit flushed. 

“Alice, are you all right?” 

Alice gave a weary smile. “Yes, I’m fine. I just didn’t think doing something as simple as folding laundry would tire me out so quickly.” 

I rose from my seat and pulled out a chair for her. “Here, why don’t you take a rest for a little while.” 

“Thanks, I could probably use one.” She plopped down in the chair and rested her hands on top of her round belly. “I seem to be getting bigger every minute.” 

I let out a soft giggle. “Well, it just means the baby will be strong and healthy.” 

“That’s what Doctor Martin said after my last visit,” Alice explained. “And I told him he’d have to be—he’s a Cartwright.” We both chuckled at that. Alice then informed me, “Joe thinks it might be twins. And I’m starting to think he may be right.” 

“Well, that might not be so bad,” I noted. 

“Maybe.” Alice moved her hand over her belly. “I do feel that it’s going to be a boy.” She lifted her head up and smiled at me. “But I wouldn’t mention to Joe that I said that.” 

Our laughter was interrupted by a knock at the door. 

“I’ll get it.” 

I got up from the table and heard Alice sigh in relief. “Thanks.” 

As I opened the door, two men barged through, backing me towards the fireplace. I didn’t recognize their faces. The third man, however, made my heart nearly jump into my throat. The black felt hat, the glint in his eye, the sinister-like smile. 

Doc lifted his head up and his eyes met mine. “Hello Ellie,” he said. 

I could barely speak as my heart pounded. “What are you doing here?” 

“I was wondering if you would mind helping me with some information.” Doc removed his hat as he stepped through the door. He briefly scanned the room before he noticed Alice. “Oh, forgive me. I didn’t know you had company.” 

Alice slowly rose from her seat while I informed Doc, “This isn’t my house, it’s hers. I’m only visiting.” 

“Oh.” Doc nodded his head to her. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, miss…” 

“Harper.” Alice’s eyes darted over to mine. “Alice Harper. 

Joe had mentioned to Alice he had a history with Doc. I knew she was trying to protect him. Knowing Doc, she made the right choice. 

Doc gently took hold of Alice’s hand and gave it a soft kiss. “That’s a very pretty name.” He rested his hand over his gun and looked around the living room. “You have a lovely home, Miss Harper.” 

I tried keeping my temper under control. “How did you find me?” 

Doc stopped and glanced over at me. “Now, there’s no need to be rude, Ellie. After all, we are guests in this lovely young woman’s home.” 

With my lips pressed together in a firm line, I repeated in a soft tone, “How did you find me?” 

A small smile appeared on his lips. “That’s better.” He walked over to the kitchen table and answered my question. “I had one of my associates follow you. I thought I recognized you walking out of the boarding house. It’d be hard to forget a pretty face like yours.” 

“What do you want?” I demanded. 

“It’s very simple.” Doc took a seat at the table and propped his feet up on top. He removed his revolver and spun the cylinder around. “I want to know where you’re hiding that fiancé of yours. Wade, is it?” 

“I’m not engaged to him anymore,” I announced. 

“Well, that’s a shame.” He placed the gun down on the table. “But I still need to find him. You see, we have some unfinished business.” 

“I don’t know where he is,” I answered and it was the truth. I still hadn’t seen Wade since the party. 

“I see…” Doc studied me briefly before he looked over at Alice. “Miss Harper. I wonder if you’d be a dear and get us a drink.” 

“Alice, you don’t have to get him anything,” I barked. 

“It’s all right.” Alice looked over at Doc and apologized. “I’m sorry, but my husband and I don’t keep any liquor in the house. But I have made a pot of tea.” 

“That’s quite all right, dear, that’ll do just fine,” Doc replied before he moved his gaze back over to me. His stare sent a shiver down my spine. 

After Alice served the tea, Doc took a drink from his teacup and repeated his question to me. 

“Now, I kindly ask you again, Miss Cooper. Where’s Wade?” 

I unfolded my arms, not wasting any time in showing my impatience. “Look, I’ve told you everything I know. I don’t know where he is; I’m telling you the truth.” 

Doc moved his finger around the rim of the teacup. “But you have seen him.” 

“Yes, but not since a few days ago.” 

“Did he mention to you at all where he was heading?” 

“No, he just left!” 

Doc leaned his head forward and pressed, “But you must know where.” 

Alice spoke. “Leave her alone.” Doc glanced over at Alice who took a few steps towards him. “She told you she doesn’t know where he is. Now would you kindly leave my house,” she demanded. 

One of Doc’s men stepped in front of Alice, backing her into a corner. Doc warned, “Now, we can do this the easy way or the hard way. Your choice of course.” 

I feared for Alice, but she made it perfectly clear, she wasn’t afraid. “If you lay a hand on me, my husband will chase you down to the ends of the earth and kill you.” 

“You wouldn’t harm a pregnant woman, would you?” I questioned. 

Doc paused before he called his man off. “Jennings.” He moved away from Alice and Doc looked over in my direction. “Now, I’ve tried to be civil with you, Ellie, but I am losing my patience. Now I ask you for the last time. Where…is…Wade?”  

Alice’s daughter, Sara’s cries rang out from the next room. My heart skipped a beat when Alice smashed a vase on the head of one of Doc’s men. I eyed the plate on the table and acted fast; snatching it off of the table before I smashed it against Doc’s other man. 

I heard the coughing and saw Doc out of his seat, grabbing a handkerchief from out of his pocket while pressing his other hand against the table, trying to hold his balance. 

Before I could react, I felt Alice grab my hand and pull me into the next room. 

Once we were inside, Alice held the door shut and tried to catch her breath. I quickly scanned Sara’s room and asked, “What do we do?” 

“The window,” Alice huffed. 

I hurried over to the window and used all the strength I had to lift it, but it wouldn’t budge. “I can’t get it open,” I grunted. 

Suddenly, we heard the sound of gunfire from outside. I moved away from the window. “What’s that?” 

“I don’t know,” Alice breathed. 

The gunfire stopped and silence filled the room. Several seconds went by before we heard footsteps approaching. Alice moved away from the door as we held our breaths. The door burst open and to our relief, it was Joe. 

“Alice?” 

“Joe.” Alice rushed into his arms. 

Joe asked as he brushed her hair back, “Are you all right?” 

“Yes, just out of breath is all. We heard the gunshots, I didn’t know what….” 

“That was me and Candy. We fired off a few shots to scare off whoever it was,” he explained. 

My head perked up. “Candy’s with you?” 

“Yeah, he’s outside now trying to track down those men.” 

I hurried past Alice and Joe out the bedroom door and waited for Candy to return. 

***

A little while later, I paced by the window while Joe cleaned Alice’s wound. She had cut her hand on a shattered piece of the vase she broke. Alice explained to Joe what happened. 

“I didn’t tell him who I was. I didn’t want to risk him coming after you.” 

“It’s all right, you did good,” he told her as he dabbed at her hand with a cloth. “I still think it was a foolish thing to do, going up against a fella like Doc Holliday. You could have gotten yourself killed.”

“Well, Doc Holliday or not, I was protecting our baby. I wasn’t gonna let them anywhere near her.” 

I reassured Alice, “He wouldn’t harm a child. He’s not a monster, even if he appears to be.” 

Alice shrugged. “Well, still….ow!” she yelped. 

Joe stopped and asked, “Does that hurt?” Alice nodded slightly. Joe took hold of her hand and gave it a tender kiss. “Better?” She smiled and Joe began bandaging up her hand. “I still wish you would let Doc Martin take a look at you and make sure the baby’s all right.” 

“Joe, I told you I’m fine and so is the baby. He’s just giving me a kick you wouldn’t believe.” 

Joe chuckled softly when Candy walked through the door. I hurried over to him as I cried out his name and wrapped my arms around him. Candy took my face and asked, “Are you all right?” 

“I’m fine.” 

Candy looked over and saw Joe tending to Alice’s hand. “What happened?” he asked. 

Joe answered, “She’s all right. Did you find them?”

Candy sighed. “No, I lost them on the trail. There were three of them, whoever they were.” 

I so desperately wanted to tell Candy the truth, but I made a promise. 

Joe finished bandaging Alice’s hand and urged her, “I want you to gather your things and take Sara over to the Ponderosa, you’ll be safe there.” 

“Joe, I’m fine, really, there’s no need to….” 

“That may be, but I’d feel a lot better knowing you and the baby are at Pa’s safe and sound.” 

Alice gave a frustrated sigh. “Joe….” 

“Get your things,” he pressed.  

Alice relented before Joe helped her up from the chair and she headed into their bedroom. 

I could understand Joe being worried for his family’s safety. He’s very protective much like Candy. I looked over at Candy and my conscience began to eat away at me to the point I could no longer stay silent. 

“Candy? There’s something I need to tell you.” He gave me his full attention and I took a deep breath. “I can’t lie to you anymore, Candy. Those men who paid us a visit…they work for Doc Holliday.” 

Candy scrunched his eyebrows. “Doc Holliday?”

I swallowed and confessed, “And one of the men was him. Doc arrived in town a few days ago.” 

Candy’s expression shifted into disbelief. “What? You mean Doc Holliday really is here in Virginia City?” 

“It’s true,” Joe said. “Pa and I found out a few days ago; Roy told us.” 

Candy exchanged a few quick glances between me and Joe. “You mean Doc Holliday’s been here all this time and you’re just now telling me about it?” 

Joe told him in defense, “I wanted to tell you. But Pa and Hannah thought it’d be best if you didn’t know; at least not until we knew what we were up against.” 

Candy scoffed and rubbed his temple with a shake of his head. “Oh, well, that’s just great, Joe. First my fiancée and now my best friend. You know, here’s an idea, why don’t you two just let me do my own thinking for once, all right?” he snapped. 

I interjected, “Candy, we only did it to protect you.” 

“Well, whatever your reason was, it doesn’t matter. Because I’m ending this once and for all.”

Candy stormed over to the door and I trailed behind him. 

“Candy, wait, where are you going?” 

Candy stopped with his hand on the doorknob and informed me, “I’ve had enough of this Wade fella and if this Doc Holliday wants him, he’s gonna get him,” he seethed. 

Joe grabbed hold of his shoulder and turned him around. “Candy, don’t do anything stupid,” he urged. 

Candy shrugged him off and warned, “Wherever Wade is…he’s a dead man.” 

I began to beg, “Candy, please…” 

Candy was already out the door before I could even finish my sentence. I turned to Joe. “Joe, you’ve got to stop him,” I pleaded. 

“I will, just hold on.” 

Joe gently touched my shoulder and gathered his black leather gloves on the table when Alice appeared in the doorway. 

“Joe, where are you going?” she asked. 

“Candy went after Wade, I’m gonna try to stop him.” He glanced over at me and ordered, “Hannah, I want you to take Alice over to Pa’s and stay there with her.” 

I nodded. Alice came up to Joe and told him to be careful. 

Joe gave her a small smile and brushed his fingers against her cheek. “Don’t you worry about me, I’ll be fine.” He pulled her in and kissed her before he grabbed his hat and rushed out the door. 

I prayed he would stop Candy before it was too late. 

Chapter Four 

(Candy)

I raced Scout down the pasture, the wind whipping past me as a rage burned inside of me. I was determined to stop Wade, no matter the cost. I made it about halfway off the Ponderosa when I caught sight of Joe’s pinto. He steered the pinto right in front of me and I tugged on the reins. 

“You’re wasting your time, Joe, so don’t even try,” I cautioned. 

“Try to what? To stop you from making the biggest mistake of your life?” 

“If it gets Wade off our backs, then yeah. If he hadn’t shown up, all Hannah and I would have to worry about is…remembering our lines to say to the reverend at the altar.” 

Joe argued, “But to hand him over just to be killed by a notorious criminal like Doc Holliday. Candy, that isn’t you.” 

Where did Joe get off thinking he knew everything about me and what I was capable of doing? He also happened to be right. 

“All right, maybe it isn’t. But at least he would be gone and out of the way.” 

Joe scoffed. “You know, Pa was right. All you care about is wanting Wade dead for trying to steal your girl. How are you any different from Doc Holliday?”

Joe’s words gnawed at me. He pressed further. “And if you end up getting yourself killed, Hannah will never forgive herself. Do you want to do that to her?” 

I was so angry, I didn’t realize I would be hurting the one person I never wanted to hurt. I hung my head down and replied with a soft, “No.” 

“Then come back with me now before you end up doing something you’ll regret.” 

I let out a deep sigh. “All right.” 

Joe smiled as he reached out and patted my shoulder. “Come on.” 

We steered our horses and headed back in the direction of the ranch. I knew Joe was only trying to help me and I was grateful he was there to stop me before I made a big mistake. It’s what he does best; being a good friend. 

***

After I returned to the ranch, Hannah greeted me with an embrace. I apologized to her and we put it all behind us. Our focus was then back to protecting Hannah from Wade and Holliday. 

We had dinner that night with the Cartwrights and I then took Hannah on a moonlight buggy ride across the Ponderosa to clear our heads. After we returned to the ranch, I helped her down from the buggy and we made our way over to the house. From the look on her face, I knew she was still feeling guilty. 

“I know I’ve said it before, Candy, but I really am sorry for not telling you. It was wrong of us to keep it from you, but we were only….”

“Thinking of me, I know,” I sighed. 

She stared at me with those sparkling blue eyes and asked, “Can you forgive me?” 

With a half-smile, I responded, “Yeah, I forgive you. But it’s only because you’re so beautiful.” She flashed a smile as her face flushed red making her look even more adorable. I came to a stop as we reached the bunkhouse and turned to her. “Look. I don’t care anymore about Wade or Doc Holliday or any other man who’s tried to come between us these past few days. I only care about you and…where to take you on our honeymoon.” 

She chuckled softly and said, “Well….” She placed her hand over my chest. “I do have a place in mind we could go.” 

“So do I,” I grinned. 

We paused before we both said a name at the same time. 

“…New Orleans.” 

“…Sacramento.” 

We both started laughing before I told her, “Well, we still have time to decide on that.” 

I kissed her and we said goodnight to each other. I watched her walk into the house with a smile before I headed towards the barn to unhitch the buggy. 

I brought the horse into the barn and placed it inside the stall. When I stepped out of the stall, I felt someone or something hit me over the head and everything went black around me. 

***

(Hannah)

After I said goodnight to Candy, I went up to one of the guest rooms of the Ponderosa. I was relieved that Joe was able to stop Candy from going after Wade and Doc. I didn’t blame him, but I don’t think I could ever forgive myself if something happened to him. I loved him too much to lose him. 

I pulled out my nightgown from the dresser when I heard knocking and muffled voices that followed. I placed my nightgown down on the bed and hurried to the door. I leaned my head forward and the voices became clearer. It was Ben and Alice. She sounded frightened. I opened the door slightly and took a peek. 

“I’m worried about Joe. He said he was going to wait for Candy, but that was nearly an hour ago and I looked everywhere for him.”

I crinkled my eyebrows and listened further. 

“I’m worried that something might have happened to him and with Doc Holliday out there I just….” 

Alice broke down into Ben’s shoulder. He wrapped his arm around her, comforting her. “There, there, now, it’s all right. I’m sure it’s nothing to worry about; nothing at all.” 

Ben turned and called out to Jamie a few times before he came out of his bedroom. He sounded like he had just woken up. 

“What is it, Pa?” he asked as he rubbed his eye. 

Ben, with his arm still around Alice, ordered, “I need you to go down to the bunkhouse and tell Candy to ride out and look for Joe.” 

“Why? Is something wrong?” 

“Just do as I say, Jamie, now go get Candy.” 

I opened the bedroom door and saw Ben leading Alice over to Joe’s bedroom. “Come over here now, darling.” 

I called out to him. “Mr. Cartwright?” Ben turned around and I came up to him. “What’s wrong?” 

“Joe’s gone,” he informed me. 

“What do you mean gone? What happened?” 

Ben turned his attention back over to Alice. “Alice, why don’t you go back to bed now. I’m sure Joe’s all right. I don’t want you to worry, we’ll find him.” 

Alice reluctantly nodded her head and went inside Joe’s bedroom. 

After the door closed, Ben headed for the stairs and I followed after him. 

As we descended the stairs, I questioned, “I don’t understand. Why would Joe just leave and not tell anyone where he was going, especially Alice.” 

“He wouldn’t.” 

Ben reached the bottom of the stairs right before I did when the door opened and Jamie walked in. 

“Did you tell Candy?” Ben asked, anxiously. 

“No, because he wasn’t there,” Jamie replied. 

Ben and I both scrunched our eyebrows with puzzled expressions. 

“What do you mean he wasn’t there?” Ben turned to me and asked, “Didn’t he come back with you?” 

“He did. We said goodnight and he went to unhitch the buggy and that was the last I saw of him.” 

Ben shifted his gaze back over to Jamie. “Did you check the barn?” 

“Yeah, he wasn’t there either, neither was Joe. I checked the stable and both of their horses are still here.”

My breath caught in my throat. “It has to be Doc, Mr. Cartwright. He must have taken them.” 

“Now, we don’t know that for sure,” Ben reasoned. 

“It has to be,” I stressed. “How else do you explain it?” 

Ben turned to Jamie. “Jamie. I’m gonna need you to round up as many of our men as you can; get a search party started while I go inform Clem of what’s happened.” 

After Jamie went out the door, I pleaded, “Let me go with you, Mr. Cartwright.” 

“No, it’s too dangerous. I need you to stay here with Alice.” 

“He’s my fiancé, Mr. Cartwright, and I’m not afraid of Doc Holliday or Wade. They’re not gonna stand in my way.” 

Ben let out a deep sigh. “Hannah, I know you fear for Candy’s life right now, just like I fear for Joe’s, but we need to let Sheriff Coffee and Clem handle this. They won’t let anything happen to them, I promise you.” 

I believed him, but I also knew time was running out. Ben gently touched my shoulder. “Now, I don’t want you telling Alice anything right now. We don’t want to upset her in her condition. I’ll go get dressed.” 

I watched Ben ascend the stairs then moved my gaze over to the wall of guns. I walked over to it and touched one of the rifles before I picked it up. I learned how to shoot a gun as a young girl when I joined my father on a hunt for game. My mother didn’t approve of course, but my father thought a girl ought to learn how to defend herself. Little did he know, it would come in handy later. 

With the rifle in my hand, I snuck out the door and quietly made my way over to the barn. When I stepped inside, I saw Candy’s horse, Scout, in one of the stalls. I grabbed the wool blanket and saddle before I placed them on his back.  

I pulled Scout out of the barn and mounted onto him. His nostrils flared and I gave him a gentle pat. “Easy boy.” 

I tugged on the reins and we got moving along the trail. I heard the faint sounds of Mr. Cartwright’s voice calling out to me, but I wouldn’t turn back. I was determined to go after the man I loved. 

***

(Candy) 

I stirred slightly as I opened my eyes; ears ringing—head pounding. I could barely make out anything in front of me until I turned my head and my vision came into focus. My eyebrows crinkled when I saw Joe there next to me. 

“Joe?” 

“Yeah,” he answered. 

I scanned the woods, but they looked unfamiliar to me. We couldn’t be that far from Virginia City, could we? I thought. It was nighttime, so there was no way to tell in the dark. I tried to move, but my hands were tied. My head fell back against the tree when a man dressed in all black approached me. 

“Good evening, gentlemen.” 

“Who are you?” I asked. 

“It seems we have not yet been acquainted. My name is John, but most people refer to me by my nickname, Doc…Doc Holliday.” 

I hung my head down and scoffed. “So, you’re the famous Doc Holliday?” 

“Yes. I do apologize that we’re meeting in such…unfortunate circumstances.” 

“What do you want?” I scowled. 

“All in good time, friend.” Doc shifted his gaze over to Joe and moved towards him. “Hello Joe. It’s been a long time. You’ve grown up. Let’s hope your senses have grown along with you.” 

Joe stared daggers at him. “Right now I just want to know which one of your suits here tried to attack my wife.” he seethed. 

Doc tilted his head slightly. “Your wife?” 

“Yeah. Her name’s Alice. You came into our house that afternoon, remember?” 

Doc lifted his head up. “Oh, right. Clever girl.” He started pacing in front of us. “Now, I suppose you’re wondering why you’re both here. Well, it’s really very simple, gentlemen. A little word I’d like to call…vengeance.” He turned his head and called out, “Mr. Collins?”  

Wade came out from behind the bushes and my muscles tightened at the sight of him. I attempted to lunge at him, but one of Doc’s men pinned me down. I growled as I shook my body violently. 

“Simmer down!” he barked. 

My chest heaved as he pushed me back up against the tree. 

Doc spoke. “Mr. Collins here wants to fight for the woman he loves. And I want vengeance for the woman I loved. It’ll be a fair fight. The winner not only gets the girl, but he leaves with his life. We’ll decide who goes first.” 

He reached into his pocket when we heard the sound of a gun cocking. 

“Don’t you move.” 

Hannah appeared from behind a tree with a rifle in her hand. My eyes widened as my heart skipped a beat. “Hannah?” 

Wade yelled, “Ellie, get out of here now!” 

“Don’t you start with me, Wade,” she snapped before she pointed the rifle at Doc. “Let them go.” 

Doc sighed. “You won’t pull the trigger, Ellie.” 

“I wouldn’t bet on that, Doc,” she fumed. 

Doc called one of his men and he grabbed hold of Hannah. The rifle went off as she fought against his grasp. I moved away from the tree and yelled, “Let go of her!” 

Doc finally called his man off and had him bound her hands before he pushed her down next to Joe. 

“Now, where were we?” Doc said before he reached into his pocket and pulled out a coin. “Let’s see who goes first. Heads it’s Mr. Canaday, tails it’s Mr. Cartwright.” 

Doc’s man called heads right before the coin landed in Doc’s hand. 

“It’s heads,” Doc confirmed. 

I closed my eyes tight and overheard Hannah’s cries. 

Doc ordered one of his men to untie my hands. Once my hands were free, he brought me up and shoved me near Doc. I rubbed my hands together, raw from the rope when Doc handed me my gun while the other gun in Doc’s hand was handed over to Wade. I could tell by the look on his face, he wasn’t expecting it. 

“What do you think you’re doing?” Wade demanded. 

“You claim Mr. Canaday stole your girl. Well, now is your chance to fight for her,” Doc explained. 

“That wasn’t part of the deal,” Wade snapped. 

With a smug grin, Doc questioned, “Did you really think I was going to be the one to kill him? You want a deal, you play by my rules.”

I wasn’t involved in whatever the deal was, but it sounded to me like Wade wanted Holliday to kill me. He couldn’t even kill me himself. That only furthered my anger towards him. It proved he was nothing but a coward. 

Doc took a few steps towards the campfire. “Now, I want a fair fight, gentlemen. Let’s see who is more skilled with a gun. On the count of three…” 

I glanced over at Hannah who stared up at me—tears running down her cheeks. I looked over at Wade and I could tell by the look in his eyes how scared he was. My heart pounded in my chest as I saw Wade cock the gun. Doc began counting down. 

“One…two…” 

Hannah let out a blood curdling scream and threw herself in front of me. “No, please…” she cried. 

She sobbed into my shirt—her head pressed against my chest. I looked down at her and brushed my hand against her soft hair. If I ever had any doubts that she loved me, I knew right then and there, how much she really did. Her cries for me felt like a knife through my heart. The truth was I wasn’t really afraid to die, but at that moment, I wanted to live more than I ever had in my life. 

Doc’s man pulled Hannah off me and dragged her back over to Joe. I moved my gaze over to Wade and it was as if something shifted inside of him. He glanced over at Hannah and then down at the gun in his hand before Doc started counting down again. 

“Let’s start again, shall we?” 

Wade spoke. “Wait…I can’t do this.” 

Doc tilted his head. “What do you mean you can’t?” 

“I changed my mind, the deal’s off. I can’t kill him.” Wade tossed the gun in front of him. 

I couldn’t believe it. Maybe I had been wrong about Wade after all. 

Doc asked, “So you’re breaking your word?” 

Wade paused before he answered with a soft, “Yeah.” 

Doc sighed and said with a shake of his head, “That’s a shame…Rawlings.” 

Doc’s man pulled out his gun when Joe jumped up and took a swing at him. Doc’s other man attempted to take a shot at Joe when I acted fast and put a bullet in his arm. 

As he grabbed hold of his arm, he aimed his gun at me. Before I even had time to react, Wade jumped right in front of me; the bullet hitting his chest. I froze as I watched him fall to the ground. The man that wanted me dead just saved my life. I couldn’t understand it. 

I soon snapped out of it when I saw Ben and Clem had arrived. They rounded up Doc’s men along with Joe while I hurried over to Hannah. I knelt down in front of her and cut the rope loose from her hands. 

After we embraced, she took hold of my face and asked if I was all right. 

“Never better,” I grinned. 

She kissed me when she stopped suddenly and stared at me, wide-eyed. “Wade.” 

We hurried over to Wade. Hannah knelt down to him and gently lifted his head up. “Wade?” 

Wade opened his eyes and looked right up at Hannah. “Ellie. I’m so sorry for what I done,” he croaked. 

Hannah stroked his head. “Shh. It’s all right. I forgive you.” 

His lips formed a faint smile. “I really did love you.” 

Hannah’s lip quivered. “I know.” 

Wade looked over at me and said through labored breaths, “Take good care of her.” 

I made him a promise that I would. Wade then closed his eyes and breathed his last. Hannah’s hand slipped from his head and she cried into my shoulder as I held her. 

After I helped Hannah up, we joined up with Ben and Joe. To help lighten the mood, I joked, “Well, I guess we’ll never know how good of a gunslinger I am, huh?”

Joe chuckled. “You could have taken him.” 

I thanked Joe for his confidence in me. I then tilted my head and asked Joe in curiosity, “How did you ever get free from that rope?” 

Joe gave a half-smile as he nodded toward Hannah. “Your girl here slipped me a knife.” 

I looked over at Hannah who smiled. “You taught me, remember?” 

I smiled wide. “Yeah.” 

Clem came up to us and asked Joe, “You said there were only two of them right?”

“Yeah, and Doc Holliday,” Joe added before he looked around and crinkled his eyebrows. “Where did he go?” 

We all scanned the woods and Doc was nowhere in sight. 

“He was there a minute ago, I swear it,” Joe claimed. 

Clem stated, “Well, wherever he is, all I can say is good riddance.” 

Ben raised his eyebrows with a tilt of his head. “Well, Clem, I can’t say I don’t agree with you.” 

Clem thanked us for our help and left the woods with Doc’s men in custody. 

Ben looked over at us and announced, “Let’s go home.” 

With my arm around Hannah’s shoulder, we headed out of the woods and back to the Ponderosa with Ben and Joe. 

I was relieved to be alive, but at the same time, I kind of felt sorry for the guy. I didn’t doubt Hannah’s love for me one bit after that night, but I could also see how much Wade had meant to her. Maybe that night gave her the closure she needed to put her past behind her once and for all. I hoped it did. 

Chapter Five 

(Hannah) 

I sat in front of the mirror in one of the guest rooms of the Ponderosa as Alice fixed my hair. I had been primped and prodded with pins all morning. The church was ready and the guests were seated waiting for my arrival. I stared at my reflection in the mirror, barely recognizing myself. Wade was the last link to my former life as Ellie. It felt as if a weight was lifted off of my shoulder and my past was finally laid to rest. In Wade’s final moments, I caught a glimpse of the man I used to love and that brought me some comfort. 

My deep thoughts were interrupted by a knock at the door. It was Mrs. Sutton who asked if I was ready yet. 

“Just about,” Alice replied. 

Mrs. Sutton came up to me as a gasp escaped from her mouth. “Oh, Hannah. You look absolutely breathtaking.” 

My face flushed a shade of pink. “Thank you. I can’t help but feel a little nervous.” 

“I’m sure you’ll do fine,” Mrs. Sutton assured me before she kissed my cheek. “I’ll be waiting downstairs when you’re ready.” 

After Mrs. Sutton left the room, Alice applied the finished touches to my hair. “There, that should do it. What do you think?” 

I turned my head to the side as I took a good look at my pinned up hair, curled down to my back. My lips formed a big smile. “I love it. You did a wonderful job.” 

“Thanks. She was right though, you do look beautiful. And I look like a big fat cow,” Alice joked. 

“You do not,” I giggled. “You look radiant.” 

She thanked me and asked if I was ready to go. 

I took a deep breath. “Ready as I’ll ever be I suppose.” 

I rose from the chair and walked with Alice out of the guest room. 

Joe met up with us in the hallway; looking very handsome in his blue suit. He let out a whistle as he strode past us. 

“You look beautiful.” 

“Thank you,” I blushed. 

“Oh, uh, actually I was talking to her,” Joe noted as he pointed to Alice. “But you look great too.” 

He touched my shoulder and I caught Alice rolling her eyes as I giggled. 

Joe informed us, “Pa and Jamie are gonna meet us at the church. I did, however, have a little trouble with the groom.” 

I asked with dread in my voice, “Candy’s all right, isn’t he?” 

Joe answered, “Oh, yeah, he’ll be fine. He’s just a little nervous, that’s all. But I’m sure once he gets a look at you, he’ll forget all about it.” 

A shy smile appeared on my lips and Joe kissed my cheek. “We’ll see ya later.” 

Joe wrapped his arm around Alice and they descended the stairs before I gathered my dress and followed after them. 

***

My hands were shaking as I waited near the entrance to the church. The guests were seated inside waiting for me. I closed my eyes when I felt a gentle hand touch my arm and a deep soothing voice. 

“Are you ready?” 

I turned and saw Ben Cartwright smiling warmly at me. He was honored when I asked him to walk me down the aisle. He had become like family to me already so it was only natural that I asked him. 

I heard the sound of the organ begin to play and I took a deep breath as I looped my arm through Ben’s. 

We stepped through the doors of the church and all heads turned in my direction. With everyone staring at me, the dress started to feel heavier than I remembered. It was only Ben’s firm yet gentle grasp around me that kept me steady. I looked ahead of me and there was Candy standing near the reverend. I kept my gaze fixed on him as I moved down the aisle with Ben next to me. 

Once I was in front of Candy and he took hold of my hand, all of my nerves vanished in an instant. I stared into his eyes as the reverend began the ceremony. It wasn’t long before the reverend turned to me. 

“Hannah, do you take Candy to be your lawfully wedded husband. To love, honor, and cherish him; in sickness and in health, as long as you both shall live?” 

I looked into Candy’s eyes and answered with a soft, “I do.” 

The reverend repeated the words to Candy and in return, Candy stared into my eyes and answered with a smile, “I do.” 

After we said our vows and Candy placed the ring on my finger, the reverend announced, “By the powers invested in me and in the state of Nevada, I now pronounce you husband and wife. And what God hath joined together, let no man put asunder. You may now kiss the bride.”

Candy and I gazed into each other’s eyes as we leaned forward and kissed. As we kissed, it felt as if we were the only two people in the room even when we heard the crowd erupt with applause for us. 

We finally pulled away and Candy nestled his head against mine. “I love you,” he whispered.

After the ceremony, we hurried out of the church and into a buggy as our friends waved goodbye to us before Candy whipped the reins and we took off down the dirt road, and to our new home. 

***

Candy whisked me across the threshold of our new home as I giggled with delight. He set me down and gave me a long lingering kiss. He pulled away and laid his head against mine. “You’re mine,” he scoffed with a smile. 

I gazed into his eyes as I tenderly brushed my hand against the back of his neck. “I was always yours,” I reminded him. 

Our lips touched again as we wrapped our arms securely around each other. I feared we would have trouble controlling ourselves. I remember Alice admitted to me that when she and Joe were first married they practically couldn’t keep their hands off of each other. I had hoped we would show some restraint. 

After we pulled away, I turned and looked around the room. It had been the first time I had seen the house completed. “It’s everything I ever hoped it would be,” I declared out loud. 

“I’m happy to hear that,” I heard Candy respond.

I turned and gave a faint smile before I moved towards him and wrapped my arms around his neck. I confessed, “I’ll admit, I had my doubts that it would ever happen for us.” 

“So did I,” Candy admitted. 

“If it hadn’t been for Wade…” I fought the tears that started to form. 

Candy seemed to read my thoughts. “I know. But it’s over now. And I promise you, I won’t let anything come between us again.” 

“Neither will I,” I promised. 

We expressed our love to each other again and kissed. However, when Candy pulled away, he questioned, “You don’t have any other boyfriends I should be aware of, do you?” 

I rolled my eyes at him. “Candy…” 

A wide grin spread across his face. “Just making sure.” 

I knew I would have to get used to his sense of humor, but I had time. After all, we had forever. 

The End 

Author’s notes: The episodes I made reference to were Calamity Over the Comstock and Salute to Yesterday.