Summary: In this semi-sequel to Rock-A-Bye Hoss, The baby contest is back in town and Joe Cartwright enters his little daughter, Sara Marie into the contest. Part of the Forever Reimagined series. Links to stories included within. 

Rating: G

Word Count: 10,775

Forever Reimagined series: 

Vengeance is Mine (By MelissaR1992)

No More Promises (By MelissaR1992)

The Second Honeymoon (By MelissaR1992)

Remember Me (By MelissaR1992)

Once In A Lifetime (By MelissaR1992)

The Most Precious Gift of All (By MelissaR1992)

To Love, Honor, and Cherish (By MelissaR1992)

Trapped (By MelissaR1992)

Amelia, My Love (By MelissaR1992)

 

Chapter One 

It was a beautiful, sunny day in Virginia City, Nevada as Dusty Rhodes, an old friend of the Cartwrights, hung posters all over town. 

Meanwhile, Joe Cartwright and his good friend, foreman of the Ponderosa, Candy Canaday, came riding up on their horses. 

After they dismounted and tethered the reins to the hitching post of a general store, Candy glanced over at the Silver Dollar. “Do you think we have time for a beer before we head back?” 

Candy seemed to read Joe’s mind. “I was just about to suggest the same thing.” Candy flashed a grin and Joe placed his hand over his shoulder. “Come on.” 

As they crossed the street and headed over to the Silver Dollar, Joe spotted Dusty nailing up a poster onto a building. His curiosity got the better of him and he approached Dusty. “Hey, Dusty.” 

Dusty stopped midway through hammering in another nail and acknowledged Joe and Candy. 

“Oh, hi, Joe—Candy.” 

Candy greeted Dusty with a tip of his hat when Joe pointed to the poster. “What’s this about?” 

With a puzzled expression, Rusty examined the poster and shrugged, “Well, I don’t rightly know, Joe. This fella named Bert handed me these posters and told me to hang them up all over town.” 

Joe and Candy took a closer look at one of the posters. Joe read out loud, “The Second Annual “Baby Contest” will take place in Virginia City on the fifteenth of March. Winner gets $100 and a blue ribbon. See who wins the prize and gets crowned, “Most beautiful baby of Virginia City”.” 

Joe crinkled his face. “Oh, not this stupid thing again.” 

“What is it?” Candy asked in curiosity. 

“Oh, it’s this baby contest they’re having here in Virginia City.” Joe shook his head at the poster. 

Candy scrunched his eyebrows. “Baby contest?” 

“Yeah, it’s a contest where these judges decide who the most beautiful baby in all of Virginia City is, and the winner gets a silver trophy and…” Joe pointed his index finger upwards. “One hundred dollars.” 

Candy shook his head. “A baby contest. That’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard.” 

“Tell me about it.” Joe lowered his gaze at the poster as he told Candy, “I remember Hoss was one of the judges a few years back.” 

With creased eyebrows, Candy searched his memory. “I don’t remember that.” 

“It was after you left us for a while and Jamie came along.” Joe shook his head and gave a soft chuckle. “Poor Hoss. I remember almost every mother in town was trying to persuade him, even Hop Sing’s cousin. I tell ya, Hoss wouldn’t hear the end of it. He was a good sport about it though.” 

They heard a woman’s voice call out to Joe. Joe and Candy turned around and saw Joe’s wife, Alice holding Sara Marie in her arms, approach them. 

Joe greeted her with a smile. “Oh, hi. What are you doing here in town? I thought you said you were gonna stop by the ranch and visit Pa.” 

“I was, but I thought I’d stop by the post office and see if there was any mail for us.” 

Joe leaned his arm against the post near him. “Oh, well I could have done that for you, I’m here in town anyway.” 

“Oh, I know…” Alice lowered her gaze and hesitated, her face flushing a shade of pink. “I just thought I could use some fresh air, that’s all.” 

Joe squinted his eyes at her. “Uh, this wouldn’t have anything to do with that sale at that little boutique Miss Johnson told you about now, would it?” 

Alice bit down on her lower lip and confessed, “Well, there is this beautiful new dress I saw in the display window.” 

Joe smirked. “Well, why don’t you go and buy it then?” 

Alice’s face lit up with a big smile. “Really?”

“Sure, as long as I get to see you in that dress when you get back,” he hinted. 

Alice’s smile shifted into a shy one and her cheeks flushed red before Joe kissed one of them. Alice’s attention turned to the poster. “What’s that?” she asked. 

Joe looked down at the poster in his hand. “Oh, it’s just about this baby contest they’re having here in town.” 

Alice scoffed with a smile, “What?” 

“Yeah, it’s a contest to see who the most beautiful baby in Virginia City is,” Joe clarified.

Alice looked down at their daughter. “Well, I hope you’re not thinking of entering our daughter into that silly contest.” 

Joe’s voice showed his annoyance at the accusation. “Of course not. I already know who the most beautiful baby in Virginia City is because she takes right after her mother.” Alice’s lips formed a small smirk and Joe leaned in and kissed them. “I’ll see you later.” 

As Joe snuck a kiss on Sara’s cheek, Alice said goodbye to Candy. After Alice left, Joe turned to Candy and patted his shoulder. “Come on, let’s have that beer, huh?” 

Joe and Candy entered the Silver Dollar and came up to the counter. Joe greeted Sam the bartender and ordered two beers. As Sam grabbed two beer mugs from underneath the counter, Joe overheard a group of men who were gathered around a table near him. 

One of the men was Abel Stanton, the son of one of the new members of the Cattleman Association, Miles Stanton who Joe loathed. 

Abel boasted to the other men at the table with a cocky smile, “I’m absolutely sure my little Susie is a shoo-in to win the contest.” 

One of the men at the table scoffed at the notion. “How can you be so sure of that?” 

“Well, you only have to look at her to see that she’s the most beautiful baby in all of Virginia City,” Abel insisted. “That’s why I know she’ll win that contest.” 

Joe rolled his eyes and tried to enjoy his beer when out of the corner of his eye, he spotted Abel approaching him. 

“Joe Cartwright. I thought I recognized you.” 

Joe turned around and leaned back against the bar, holding his beer mug in his hand. “Oh, hey, Abel, I thought I smelled something rotten when I walked in here.” 

Joe took another sip of beer as Candy fought a smirk. 

Abel narrowed his eyes. “So. Have you heard about the baby contest?” 

Joe nodded. “Yeah, and I think the whole thing is stupid. I don’t know whose bright idea it was to bring it back.” 

“My father’s,” Abel answered. 

Joe glanced over at Candy. “Oh, well that explains it.” 

Candy nodded with a sideways smirk while Joe gave a soft giggle and took another sip of beer. 

Abel pressed his lips together. “You have a kid, don’t you, Joe?” 

“Yes, a little girl and no, I’m not entering her into the contest, thank you,” Joe informed him. 

Abel’s voice showed disappointment. “Oh, well, that’s a shame. But it’s probably for the best anyway.” 

Joe’s lips lowered into a frown. “What do you mean by that?” 

Abel explained. “Well, to save her from going through that kind of rejection. I’m sure it would have some effect on her.” 

Joe raised his eyebrows. “Rejection?” The notion brought a chuckle out of him. “Wait a minute. Are you saying that she would have no chance at all of winning?” 

Abel stated, matter of factly, “Well, if she looks anything like her father, I’d say she has absolutely no chance of winning.” 

Joe’s brows furrowed while Candy raised his and turned towards the bar. 

“What did you say?” Joe demanded. 

Abel’s eyes locked on Joe’s. “You heard me.” 

Joe slammed his beer mug down on the counter. Yeah, well, let me tell you something…” 

Joe lunged at Abel when Candy held him back. “Joe, don’t let him get you all riled up, he’s just all talk, remember?”

“Yeah, well, I’m not gonna just sit here and let him throw insults at me and my little girl either,” Joe seethed as he pointed his finger accusingly at Abel. 

Abel flashed a cocky smile, “I’m just simply stating a fact.” 

Joe declared, “Well, the fact is my daughter can win that contest and she will.” 

Abel lifted an eyebrow. “Is that so?” 

“It is so!” Joe turned towards the bar. “Sam, give me that paper.” Sam slid over the baby contest register form and Joe signed his name down before he slammed the pen down on the counter. “There.” 

Abel smiled. “Now, that’s the spirit, Joe, care to add a little wager?”

“How much?” 

“Oh, how about the same as the prize money, one hundred dollars?”

“You’re on!” 

“Excellent. Let’s see whose baby the town thinks is the most beautiful.” 

“Yeah, and you’re gonna look pretty foolish when it turns out to be mine.” 

“We’ll see. See you at the contest, Joe.” 

As Abel headed for the saloon doors, Joe smiled mockingly at him before he remarked, “It’s a good thing you don’t have a brother named Cain. Heh.” Joe shook his head and grabbed his beer off of the counter. He brought it up to his lips and paused before his head perked up. “What did I just do?” 

“You just signed up for the baby contest, you know the one that Alice told you not to?” Candy answered. 

Joe rubbed his hand over his face and whimpered, dreading having to tell Alice he went against her wishes. 

*****

Later that evening, Joe confessed to Alice that he entered their daughter into the baby contest. 

An irritated Alice questioned as she prepared supper, “Joe, how could you do it?” 

“I’m sorry, it’s just that Abel Stanton got on my last nerve. Just because his father is the head of the Cattleman Association doesn’t mean he owns this town.” Joe pointed his finger at her. “And he’s gonna soon find that out when he doesn’t win the contest.” 

Alice let out an aggravated sigh as she rested her hand from chopping carrots. “Joe, that isn’t the point. You deliberately entered our baby into the contest after I specifically told you not to.” 

“It was an accident!” Joe exclaimed. “Abel got me so mad, I didn’t even know what I was doing.” 

Alice muttered, “Mm-hm.” 

“It’s the truth!” 

“Well, whatever the matter was, you are dropping her out of that contest.” 

Joe gave a frustrated sigh. “Oh, Alice, I can’t. I got a lot riding on this contest. If I back out now, I’d never hear the end of it.” 

“I don’t care, Joe. I don’t want her in that contest.” 

“Why not?” 

“Because people can be very cruel. Your pa told me all about what your brother went through and I don’t want to hear people telling lies about our daughter just to win some silly contest.” 

“Alice, you and I know very well nobody’s gonna believe a word of anything people say, we have a good reputation in this town, remember?” 

“That doesn’t matter! It’s still wrong and I won’t have her being a part of it, I won’t.” 

Joe took a brief pause as he looked over at Alice. “All right, I get wanting to protect her and I do too, but think of it this way…” Joe wandered over to their daughter sitting in her high chair. He brushed his hand over her chestnut curls. “How wonderful would it be to know the people of this town think that our baby—our sweet and adorable baby girl is considered the most beautiful baby in all of Virginia City?” 

A small smile crept on Alice’s lips. “Yes, but I already know she is because she’s our baby and I don’t need anyone else telling us that she is, okay?” 

As Alice got back to chopping carrots, Joe countered, “But think about that prize money, $200. I mean that’s a…” 

Alice’s brows creased. “I thought the prize was for $100?” 

Joe’s eyes widened, realizing he almost gave away the bet between him and Abel. “Right,” he squeaked. “$100, that’s a lot of money.” 

“We don’t need the money, Joe.” 

“Well, uh…” He snapped his finger. “You know it’s never too early to start thinking about our daughter’s education.” 

Alice rolled her eyes as her patience started dwindling. “Joe, we are not entering our daughter into that contest and that is final.” 

“Alice…” 

“End of discussion.” She pushed a bowl of vegetables towards him. 

Joe took hold of the bowl and muttered, “Yes, ma’am.” 

As Alice went back to preparing supper, Joe imagined the humiliation of telling Abel he had to drop his daughter out of the contest. He wouldn’t dare give Abel that satisfaction, so he immediately began formulating a plan in his mind. 

Chapter Two

The next day, Joe and Candy were back at the Silver Dollar, sitting at a table and having a beer. Joe had been unsuccessful in coming up with an idea to keep Sara in the contest and was on the verge of folding. Candy could see his friend was in agony over the decision so he offered his two cents. 

“Look, why don’t you just call the whole thing off?” 

“I can’t do that,” Joe groaned. “You know how Abel is, he’d never let me live it down and besides that I’d be out a hundred dollars.” 

Candy offered his sympathy when Abel’s father, Miles Stanton walked up to their table and greeted Joe. 

Joe locked eyes on him as a nervous smile formed. “Oh, Mr. Stanton, how are ya?” 

“Oh, fine. I heard about you entering your little one into the baby contest.” 

Joe’s forehead began to perspire. “Yeah, uh about that, sir…” 

“Joe, I just want to say that I don’t want you to feel that this contest in any way affects my business partnership with your father.” 

“Well, I appreciate that, sir, but…” 

“And I also want to say that I don’t approve of my son’s actions whatsoever, but you know how stubborn he can be.” 

Joe murmured, “Yeah, well…” 

“But I think it’s wonderful to have someone of your stature in the contest,” Miles complimented. 

Joe’s brows lifted. “You do?” 

“Why, of course. You and your father are big names in this town—highly established individuals held in high regard.” 

Candy muttered under his breath, “In other words, a hefty bank account.” He took a sip from his beer mug. 

Miles glanced over at Candy, eyebrows arched. “What was that young man?” 

Candy lifted his gaze. “Oh, nothing.” He flashed a smile that showed not even a hint of guilt at him. 

“Well, ahem. I have some business to attend to, but may the best man and baby win.” Miles extended his hand towards Joe. 

Joe gave a half-smile as he shook Miles’ hand. “Thank you, sir.” 

“Good day, gentlemen.” 

After Miles left the saloon, Candy shook his head and scoffed. “Did you see the way old moneybags was looking at me? He’s probably wondering why you would even be seen with the likes of someone like me—I’m cattle fodder to him.” 

Joe assured him, “Hey, don’t pay any attention to him, where do you think his son gets it from?” 

Candy shrugged his shoulders and proceeded to ask, “So, you still gonna pull her out of the contest?” 

Joe paused before he shook his head. “No. No, I am going through with that contest.” 

“But what about Alice?” 

Joe raised his shoulders slightly and stammered, “I’m not afraid of her. After all, I am the head of this family and it’s about time I started acting like it, I’m putting my foot down.” 

Candy nodded his head and muttered in a serious tone, “Mm-hm.” 

“She is my child too and I should have a say in this matter. I am keeping her in this contest and that’s that!” Joe slapped his hand down on the table and then took a sip of beer. 

Candy declared in a serious tone, “That’s the spirit, buddy, show her who’s boss.” He bit back a smirk knowing full well that Joe wouldn’t have the nerve to say that to Alice’s face. 

“Come on, we got work to do at the ranch, let’s go.” Joe got up from the table and placed some money down while Candy rose from his seat and grabbed his hat along with Joe before they both left the saloon. 

While outside, Joe and Candy headed over to their horses when Candy caught sight of Alice next door near the mercantile. A wide smile appeared on his face and he got Joe’s attention. 

“Hey, look who’s here.” Joe shifted his gaze over to the mercantile and spotted Alice carrying a grocery sack in her hands, walking over to a buggy. Candy inquired, “Well, are you gonna tell her?” 

Joe stood up straight and stated with confidence in his voice, “You bet I am.” 

Joe marched over to Alice while Candy shook his head with a grin before following right behind Joe. He wouldn’t dare miss the exchange for anything. 

Alice set the grocery sack down on the seat of the buggy when she heard her name being called. 

“Alice?” 

Alice turned around and a smile appeared. “Oh, hi, I wasn’t expecting to see you until later.” 

“Yeah, well, uh…” Joe glanced over at Candy who furrowed his eyebrows and nodded in encouragement. Joe turned to face Alice. “Ahem. There’s something I wanna tell you.” 

“Oh? What’s that?” Alice asked in curiosity. 

Joe opened his mouth to speak, but soon slumped his shoulders down and instead smoothed his hand over the fabric of Alice’s dress. “Is this that new dress you bought? It looks very pretty on you—very pretty.” 

Alice smiled. “It is, thank you.” Candy shook his head as his lips formed a wide grin while Alice kissed Joe’s cheek. “I’ll see you later.” 

Joe gave a half-smile. “Yeah.” 

After Joe helped Alice into the buggy, she drove off and Joe sheepishly made his way over to Candy. 

Candy crossed his arm with a shake of his head. 

“Boy, you sure told her, huh?” 

Joe shot a look of annoyance at him, unamused. “Shut up.” 

Joe stomped over to his horse while Candy burst out laughing before following after him. 

*****

The next day, Alice browsed a boutique in town when Abel’s wife, Eloise Stanton, holding her little girl, Susie, recognized her. 

“Alice?” Alice lifted her head as Eloise approached her. “Hi, you remember me, I’m Abel Stanton’s wife, Eloise?” 

Alice smiled. “Oh, yes, of course, hello. It’s a pleasure to see you again.” 

“It’s a pleasure to see you again too. I suppose you heard about the contest and our husbands entering our babies into it.” 

Alice took notice of the irritation in Eloise’s voice, which she shared. “Yes, I have and I think the whole thing is absolutely ridiculous which is why I had Joe pull our baby out of the contest.” 

Eloise’s mouth formed an oval shape. “Oh. Well, according to Abel, your baby is still in the contest.” 

Alice’s brows creased in confusion. “Oh?” 

“Yes, and like you I think the whole thing is silly especially that bet they made.” 

“Bet?” Alice gritted. 

“Yes, can you believe they bet $100 over our babies? It’s absolutely absurd.” 

Alice pressed her lips together firmly. “Oh, they did, did they?” 

Eloise sighed. “I tried to talk him out of it, but he wouldn’t do it. It’s that stubborn pride of his.” 

“Believe me, I know how you feel, Eloise,” Alice sympathized. 

Eloise shifted her little girl in her arms, bouncing her slightly. “Well, I have some shopping to do, but maybe we can all have supper together sometime. That is if our husbands can learn to get along for a couple of hours.” 

“Sure, sounds lovely.” Alice faked a smile. 

“Good, well, it was nice seeing you again, Alice. Take care.” 

“You too.” 

After Eloise walked out of the boutique with Susie, Alice’s smile faded and she began plotting on how she was gonna kill her husband. 

*****

Later that evening, Joe lay in a tub soaked with warm and soapy water as he scrubbed his back with a long scrub brush. He glanced over at the door and called out to Alice. 

“Hey, honey? You got that water for me yet?” 

“Just about!” 

Alice stepped into the room with a mischievous smile. Before she had her fun, she decided to test him first. 

“So, did you drop Sara out of the contest like I asked you to?” 

Joe paused mid-scrub and trembled, “Yeah. Yeah, you told me to, didn’t ya?” He chuckled nervously. 

She nodded with a small smirk. “Mm-hm.” 

“Well, that’s what I did,” Joe affirmed. “She’s out of the contest.” 

“Good. I ran into Eloise Stanton in town today.” 

Joe’s head perked up—his eyes widening slightly. “Oh?” 

“Yes, and do you know what she told me? She told me that Abel told her that our daughter is still in the contest.” 

Joe swallowed hard. “She did?” 

“Mm-hm. She also told me that you and Abel made a bet on that contest for $100.” 

“I-I can explain about that, you see…” 

“I don’t want to hear it, Joe.” She stepped out of the room briefly and walked back in with a bucket of water. “Here’s your water.” 

She poured the ice cold water down his back causing Joe to nearly jump up out of the tub. He shrieked, “Ah! Ooh. Alice!” 

Alice threw a towel over his head and then stormed out the door as Joe sank down into the water. 

Later that night, Joe was already in bed when Alice rushed into the room, hurriedly climbed into bed next to him, and pulled the covers over her, refusing to make any sort of contact with him. 

Joe shot an annoyed glance at her before he turned to her and pleaded, “Alice, come on. I said I was sorry.” When she didn’t respond, he let out a sigh. “All right, I shouldn’t have lied to you. I should have dropped her out of the contest like you asked me to and I was going to—I really was, but then Abel’s father walked in and told me what a great honor it was for someone like me to be a part of the contest and I just didn’t have the heart to tell him, that’s all.” 

Alice finally spoke. “And that’s exactly the problem, Joe, you care more about what people think of you than you do your own family.” 

“Alice, that’s not true.” 

“Yes it is, if it weren’t, then you would pull her out of the contest.” 

“Well, what’s so wrong about wanting our daughter to be in the contest?” 

“Joe, I already told you why. I don’t want her getting hurt.” 

“Alice, do you really think I would let that happen? I’m her father, don’t you trust me?” 

“Of course I trust you, it’s the people in town I don’t trust and I don’t particularly like being the subject of town gossip which is what I’ll have to endure if we go through with this contest.” 

“Well, I give you permission to cuff’em one on the ear then.” The suggestion brought a smirk to Alice’s lips. Joe reassured her, “You just let me handle that, all right? It’s only for a couple of weeks. Think of how great it’ll be if she wins, huh?” As reluctant as she was, the thought brought a smile to her face. “Come on, I hate it when you’re mad at me.” 

Joe moved closer to her and tenderly nuzzled her neck before he pressed his lips against it. Alice fought hard to resist, but succumbed to his charm. She growled. “All right.” Joe removed his lips from her neck and Alice turned onto her back. “You can keep her in the contest.” A wide smile appeared on Joe’s face when Alice added, “But if it goes too far, then we’re pulling her out, okay?” 

“All right, you have my word,” Joe promised. 

Alice sighed. “You know, you’re lucky I find you charming and handsome.” 

Joe flashed a grin. “I love you.” 

Alice expressed the same sentiment before they exchanged a kiss and bid goodnight to each other. They each laid their heads down on the pillow and drifted to sleep. While Joe was relieved that Alice agreed to keep their daughter in the contest, he knew she was going to keep a close eye on him—and rightly so. 

Chapter Three

The next day, in Virginia City, Joe shopped in the baby section of a boutique while Candy stood by and witnessed the stares from every lady that passed by them, making Candy squirm. 

Joe looked through a display table and picked up a small white-laced dress. He held it up and showed it to Candy. “Hey, cute, ain’t it?” 

Candy nodded with an awkward smile and nervously rubbed the back of his neck as he eyed the exit door. 

Joe spotted the sales lady and strode up to the counter. “Hey, Lisa, put this on the bill too, will ya?” 

Candy followed Joe up to the counter and planted his hand down on top of it. “Can we get outta here now?” 

Joe reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out his wallet. “Yeah, let me just pay for this and we’ll head back.” He lifted his gaze towards the sales lady. “How much do I owe you?” 

She slid the bill across the counter towards Joe who raised his eyebrows at the price and whistled. “This contest is getting awfully expensive.” He took some money out of his wallet and handed it over to the sales lady. 

Candy couldn’t help himself. “Hey, uh, buddy, don’t you think you’re overdoing it a little?”

Joe gave a quick shake of his head. “No, I just want my little girl to look her best for the judges—let them see what kind of competition they got, that’s all.” 

“Yeah, but if Alice finds out…” 

“I only promised Alice that if it goes too far, then I’ll pull her out of the contest, so far it hasn’t.” 

Candy shrugged his shoulders. “All right, as long as you know what you’re doing.” 

“Candy, buddy…” He slapped his shoulder. “Don’t worry, I have complete control over this.” 

The sales lady handed Joe his receipt and he thanked her before he then scanned the boutique. “Where’s Sara?” 

Candy looked around and shrugged, “I don’t know, I thought you had her.” 

Joe squeaked, “What? I told you to watch her.” 

Candy’s eyes widened. “Me?” 

Joe rushed past him out of the door and Candy hurried after him. 

Joe sprinted over to Sara’s carriage and found her missing. Panic started setting in as he scanned the streets when he looked to the right of him and saw her in the arms of a woman. Joe closed his eyes and breathed a sigh of relief. Candy caught up to Joe who pointed to the lady and Candy let out a relieved chuckle before they both headed over to her. 

The woman smiled and made Sara giggle when Joe approached her. “Excuse me, ma’am? I believe you got my little girl there.” 

“Oh, she’s yours?” 

Joe nodded. “Yeah.” 

“Oh.” Joe took her out of her arms. “Well, you ought to be more careful,” she stated. 

“You’re right, ma’am, I will. Thank you.” 

The woman held her gaze on Sara and smiled. “She’s an adorable little girl.” 

“Thanks, I think so too.” Joe’s head perked up. “Which is exactly why I entered her into that baby contest they’re having here in Virginia City.” 

“Oh, well, she certainly has my vote.” She brushed her fingers underneath Sara’s chin. 

Joe glanced over at Candy and winked before he redirected his attention towards the woman and flashed a big smile. “Thank you very much, ma’am. You’re too kind.” 

The woman said her goodbyes and walked off down the street when Joe excitedly turned to Candy. “She’s gonna win it.” 

“Yeah, but it’s the judges you gotta convince, not the town.” Candy brushed his hand over Sara’s chestnut curls. 

“Yes, but soon as she starts spreading the word, the whole town will know about it and then it’ll reach the judges and she’ll win!” 

 “All right. I just think you’re in way over your head with this one,” Candy expressed. 

Joe took offense to Candy’s accusation. “Candy, I must say I am quite surprised at you. I mean you should have more confidence in your goddaughter.” 

Candy held up his hands. “Hey, I’m just saying as your friend to take it easy, that’s all.” 

Joe lowered his gaze at Sara. “Well, we’re doing just fine, thank you.” Candy shrugged his shoulders and didn’t question Joe again. Joe looked out into the crowd. “I should get her back to Alice. It’s probably best if we don’t mention this little incident that happened.” He gave a nervous chuckle. 

“Oh, you mean the fact that you lost her?” Candy mentioned. 

Joe shot an irritated glance at Candy and smiled mockingly at him. “Let’s just get the stuff and get outta here, please.” 

Joe headed back inside the boutique while Candy grinned and followed after him. 

*****

Later that afternoon, the officiator of the baby contest, Bert Rubush, stopped by the Ponderosa for a visit. He sat on the settee while Ben sat in his chair across from him. 

“Ben, the real reason I’m here. We’re needing a third judge for the baby contest and well, since your son, Hoss, judged in the contest before…we thought it would be an honor if you would be our third judge.” 

Ben shifted in his seat, unable to hide his uneasiness with the idea. “I appreciate the offer, but I really don’t think I’m qualified to be a judge.” 

“Oh, well, you’re more than qualified, Ben! You’re a very honest, fair and upstanding citizen of this town with a good reputation too.” 

Ben gave a small smile. “Yes, well, I thank you, Mr. Rubush, but considering my son entered my granddaughter into the contest, I feel that would make me a bit biased in my decision.” 

Bert’s voice showed disappointment. “Oh, I see, you’ve got a point there.” 

Ben added, “Plus the fact that I’m in business with Miles Stanton whose son also entered his grandchild into the contest, that would cause quite a strain. And to be perfectly honest with you, after what Hoss went through with that contest, I just don’t think I have the patience for it.” 

“I understand, Ben.” Bert got up from the settee. “Well, we’ll just have to keep looking. I appreciate your time, Ben.” 

Ben shook his hand. “Of course.” 

Suddenly, the door opened and Candy strolled in. “Ben? Luke and Hal were over by the south fence and found a couple strays out there.” 

“Oh, well, thank you for telling me. Just tell them to move them over to the north fence in case it’s down again,” Ben instructed. 

Candy nodded with a grin. “You got it, boss.” 

When Candy headed for the door, Bert pointed his finger at him and shouted, “You!” 

Startled, Candy turned around and Bert approached him. “You look like an honest upstanding citizen.” 

Candy briefly scanned the living room. “I do?” 

“Yes. How would you like to be a judge in the baby contest?” 

Ben lifted his brows with intrigue while Candy chuckled and pointed to himself. “Me?” 

“Yes, you.” 

Candy’s voice showed a hint of nervousness as he chuckled, “Oh. No, I’m the wrong fella for that job, mister.” 

“Oh, I don’t think so.” Bert turned to Ben and inquired, “Ben, he’s your employee, you can vouch for him. Do you think that uh…” He turned towards Candy. “I’m sorry, I didn’t get your name.” 

“It’s Candy, but…” 

“Candy. Do you think that Candy would make a good judge for the contest?” 

Candy stared at Ben with desperation in his eyes, almost pleading with him. 

“Well, uh…yes. Yes, I think he would,” Ben nodded. 

Candy’s mouth opened when Bert spoke. “Excellent! I’m sure you’ll pick a real winner, mister…” 

“Canaday,” Candy stuttered. 

“Mr. Canaday.” He held his hand out to him. “See you at the contest.” 

Candy shook his hand with a nervous chuckle. “Wait a minute….” 

“Nice seeing you, Ben.” 

As Bert headed to the door, Candy tried to stop him. “Uh, wait a minute, sir—sir!” 

Bert grabbed his hat and coat. “Good day to you now.” 

Candy pleaded, “If you would just let me…” 

The door slammed shut in Candy’s face. He slumped his shoulders with a sigh before he took a few steps towards the settee when he shot a stern look in Ben’s direction. “Well, you certainly were a big help.” 

Ben shrugged, his voice showing innocence. “I was just being honest.” 

Candy expressed his thanks in a sharp tone. Ben bit back a smirk when the door opened and Joe strode in. 

“Hey, Pa. Did Candy tell you about the strays Hal and Luke found?” 

“Oh, yes, he did,” Ben replied. 

Joe pointed to the door. “Was that the fella running the contest who I saw riding off just now?”

“Yes, Bert Rubush.” 

 “What was he doing here?” 

“Well, he stopped by to ask me to be a judge in the baby contest in which I so graciously declined.” Ben then added, “But while he was here, he did manage to find a third judge for the contest after all.” 

Candy’s muscles tightened while Joe smiled—his interest piqued. “Oh, yeah? Who?” 

Ben moved his gaze towards Candy. “Candy.” 

Joe’s eyes darted to Candy who closed his tight. “Hey, no kidding, he picked you?” Joe pointed his finger at him while Candy swallowed and rapidly moved his head up and down. Joe flashed a mischievous smile as he patted Candy’s shoulder. “Buddy.” Candy’s head snapped up and he stared at Joe. “Why don’t we step outside and have a little chat, come on.” 

Candy’s eyes followed Joe’s arm wrapping around his shoulder and leading him to the door when he broke away from his grasp. 

“Oh no. I know what you’re trying to do, Joe and it’s not gonna work.” 

Joe held his hands out as he took a step towards him. “I just wanna talk to my best friend about the contest, that’s all.” 

“Stay away from me, Joe, I mean it.” Candy backed up towards the door. 

“Hey, come on, don’t be like that, just let me…” 

“No!” Candy opened the door and bolted out of it. 

“Candy! Hey!” 

Joe hurried after him, repeatedly calling his name. 

Ben could no longer help himself and he burst into fits of laughter, amused by his foreman’s predicament. 

Chapter Four 

As the baby contest drew near, the pressure mounted, especially for Candy now that he was selected—against his better judgment, as one of the judges for the contest. 

On top of that, Candy had to deal with Joe in his ear, trying and failing to sway his vote towards his little goddaughter. 

Joe hurled a sack of grain over the back of a wagon as he expressed his frustration with him. “Oh, come on, Candy, she’s your goddaughter, you gotta vote for her.” 

Candy let out an irritated sigh. “This is exactly the problem I wanted to avoid, Joe, and why I wanted out of this contest.”

“So get out of it then.” Joe grabbed hold of another sack of grain. 

Candy scrunched his face. “I tried, but that Bert fella said it was too late to find another judge and some spiel about how it’s my civic duty as a citizen to serve as a judge for my country.” 

“Well, he’s got a point, you know,” Joe shrugged. 

Candy lifted an eyebrow. “Look, if I’m gonna have to judge in this contest, I have to play it fair. It wouldn’t be right if I didn’t.” 

Joe raised his hands and squeaked, “All right, fine. You vote however you think is fair.” Candy creased his eyebrows, not quite buying Joe’s change of heart. Joe rambled, “Nevermind the fact that you’re my best friend who’s practically like a brother to me.” Candy rolled his eyes. “And who I wanted to be the godfather of my child, forget about that,” Joe added. 

Candy gave a half-smile and dryly retorted, “You know, Joe, it’s nice to know this contest won’t affect our friendship.” 

As Candy helped Joe load the rest of the grain onto the wagon, he heard the voice of a woman call out to him. 

“Oh, Mr. Canaday?” 

Candy lifted his head up and caught sight of a beautiful young woman approaching him. A grin escaped his lips and he pushed up his hat as he greeted her. “Howdy, ma’am.” 

“You are Mr. Canaday, aren’t you?” 

“Yes, but you can call me Candy,” he insisted. 

Joe rolled his eyes when the woman asked Candy, “I wondered if I might have a word with you if I could?” 

“Sure.” Candy followed her to the hitching post. 

She turned around and held a photo out towards him. “I just have to show you this photo of my darling little boy. Isn’t he just about the cutest baby you’ve ever seen? He might just be the cutest baby in all of Virginia City, wouldn’t you say?” 

Candy firmly pressed his lips together, catching onto her little scheme. “Ma’am? This wouldn’t have anything to do with the baby contest, would it?” 

“Oh. Well…” 

Her hesitation answered his question. Candy nodded with a smile. “Not interested, sorry.” 

As he started walking away, the woman begged, 

“Oh, please. He really is the cutest baby, honest.” 

Candy droned as he kept on walking, “I’m sure he is.” 

He stopped short however when another woman came up to him, holding a baby in her arms. 

“Oh, Mr. Canaday, I was wondering if you would mind…” 

The other woman stepped in front of Candy and barked, “Oh, stay out of this, Miriam, I saw him first.” 

“Well, why don’t we let Mr. Canaday decide that, Teresa? After all, he is the one who will be helping pick the winner.” 

“Well, you’re wasting your time. I think we know whose baby is going to win that contest.” 

“You’re absolutely right, Teresa. It’s going to be mine.” 

“It’s going to be mine!” 

Candy whipped his head back and forth between them when Miriam turned to Candy. “Well, before you decide on that, Mr. Canaday, I feel you should know something about Teresa’s baby.” 

Teresa gasped. “Don’t you dare say anything about my Henry!” 

They started arguing back and forth with each other when Candy tried to diffuse the situation. 

“Uh, excuse me, ma’am? Ma’am!” They continued bickering. “Ladies!” he shouted. 

Candy stood there dumbfounded when he glanced over at Joe whose head was tilted slightly to the right with a smile on his face.

Knowing Joe was no help whatsoever, Candy threw his hands up in the air and placed them over his hips when Joe finally intervened. 

“Ladies, ladies, please.” The two women stopped their bickering and turned their attention towards Joe. “Now, I don’t mean any disrespect, but you two ought to be absolutely ashamed of yourselves.” Joe reached over and pulled Candy’s shoulder towards him. “Now my friend Candy here will not be coerced or persuaded in this contest by any means necessary. He’s got way more character than that, am I right?” Joe flashed a smile at him while patting his shoulder. 

Candy pursed his lips, fighting the urge to pound Joe. “Right.” 

“Now, if you would please, ladies, let my friend be and just run along. Run along.” Joe motioned his hands forward. 

Both women apologized and ashamedly walked away from them. 

As Joe watched them walk down the boardwalk and part ways, Candy remarked, “You know, it’s always nice to know I can count on you, Joe.” 

Joe flashed a big smile. “Anytime, buddy. Anytime.” He patted his shoulder. 

With a roll of his eyes, Candy moved away from Joe and headed back over to the wagon. Joe grinned and followed after Candy—not willing to give up without a fight. 

*****

Later that afternoon at the Ponderosa, Ben strolled across the living room and over to his desk, looking through a stack of papers in his hands when he heard a knock at the door. 

He answered the door and to his surprise, it was Alice. “Oh, Alice.” 

She greeted him with a smile. “Hello Ben.” 

Ben motioned his hand towards the settee and gave a very enthusiastic, “Come in.” After Alice stepped through the door, Ben met her near his desk before he mentioned, “There was no reason to knock, you are family after all.”

Alice gave a faint smile. “I know.” 

“So what brings you by here? Joe’s not here if you’re looking for him.” 

“Oh, no, I actually wanted to talk to you.” 

Ben’s head perked up with intrigue. “Oh? What about?” 

Alice lowered her gaze as she fidgeted with her hands. She took a quick breath. “Ben, you’re Joe’s father. You probably know him better than I do—or at least the Joe I fell in love with.” 

Ben’s brows crinkled. “Is there something wrong with Joe?” 

“Well, it just seems like this contest has turned him into someone I barely recognize anymore. I know he would never do anything to hurt our daughter, but he may be hurting her without even realizing it and that’s what frightens me.” 

Ben paused before he placed the papers he was holding down on his desk and took hold of Alice’s shoulders. “Alice, dear, you have nothing to worry about. Joe may be stubborn at times, but one thing I do know is how much he loves you and my granddaughter. And no contest would ever get in the way of that.” 

She flashed a small smile. “I know. I guess I just needed to hear it. I’ll just be glad when this contest is over.” 

“I’m sure you will. And so will Candy,” he chuckled. 

Alice took a brief pause. “I heard that you were offered to be one of the judges in the contest and while I’m happy you turned it down, I want you to know that if you didn’t vote for Sara, I wouldn’t hold it against you.” 

Ben smiled. “I appreciate that, but believe me, it would hurt me more than it would hurt you and that’s why I would never want to be in that kind of position in the first place. And besides, I don’t need any contest to prove what I already know to be true.” 

Touched by his words, Alice expressed, “Well, thank you anyway.” 

Ben crossed his arms. “Why don’t you and Joe have supper with us tonight?” 

“I would like that very much.” 

“Good.” 

“I’ll see you at supper then.” 

Alice left the Ponderosa while Ben got back to his work. 

*****

The next day, Joe and Candy were seated at a table enjoying a beer at the Silver Dollar when Joe began pestering Candy with questions about the contest. 

“So, what about these other judges, has anybody gotten to them yet?” 

Candy let out an aggravated sigh. “Joe, I’d like to go one day without hearing about that contest. I’ve already been hounded by nearly every mother in town—I don’t need it from my best friend too.” 

Joe raised his hands up. “All right, I’m sorry.” He wrapped his hand around his beer mug when he leaned towards Candy. “Can you at least give me some names?” 

Candy rolled his eyes. “Joe…” 

Joe backed off. “Alright, alright.” 

Candy informed him, “You should see the fellas they got to be the other two judges.” 

Joe groaned, “Oh, couple of stiffs, huh?” 

“Just the opposite. I might be the only one who hasn’t been persuaded in any way and at this point, I’m seriously considering one of their offers.” 

“Well, don’t let them get to ya,” Joe encouraged. “You gotta be firm with them, tell them that you are not giving into them no matter what.” 

Candy took a sip of beer and nodded. “Yeah and uh…that goes for you too, Joe.” 

“Oh, I know, I know,” Joe squeaked. “But just know that whatever you decide is what you really think about your goddaughter, that’s all.” 

That prompted another eye roll from Candy when Abel Stanton walked into the saloon. He spotted Candy and strode up to him. “Ah, Mr. Canaday, just the man I wanted to see.” 

Joe barked, “Don’t even try it, Abel.” 

Abel narrowed his eyes on Joe. “I don’t see how this is any of your business, Joseph. I’m simply offering Mr. Canaday a little business proposition, that’s all.” 

Joe pointed his finger at him. “Well, I can tell you right now, he’s not interested.” 

Candy shrugged, “I might as well. I’ve heard just about everything else in this town.” He turned towards Abel. “All right, let’s hear it.” 

Abel smiled before he inquired, “Ben Cartwright pays you quite well for working for him, doesn’t he?” 

Candy’s gaze moved towards his beer mug. “Well, it bought me this beer. Why?” 

“Well, how would you like an even better position working for my father?” Abel proposed. “You’d be earning twice as much as you would be for Mr. Cartwright.” 

Candy raised his eyebrows and tried stifling a smirk. “You’re offering me a job?” 

Abel held his gaze on him. “Of course.” 

Candy scoffed, “I’ve heard a lot of ridiculous things today from a lot of different people, but I’d say this one is just about the most ridiculous one I’ve heard all day. Nice try, but no thanks.” 

As Candy rose from his seat, Abel persuaded, “I’m offering you the chance of a lifetime—I could make you rich.” 

Candy turned to him with a half-smile. “I’ve had a taste of that already and it just wasn’t for me, thanks.” He directed his attention over to Joe. “Let’s get outta here.” 

After Candy went through the folding doors, Abel furrowed his brows at Joe. “This isn’t over.” 

Joe seethed as he shot up from his seat, “Oh, you’re right it isn’t, we’re just getting started. See you at the contest when the judges decide the winner and I cannot wait to see your face when it turns out not to be you.” 

“We’ll see about that, Cartwright.” 

Joe gave him a mock smile before he stomped through the folding doors. 

Abel turned towards the bar when he heard a woman’s voice. “Abel?” 

Abel turned and when he saw it was his wife, Eloise, he hurried her towards the folding doors. “Eloise, what are you doing here? This is no place for a woman.” 

“I don’t care. Right now all I care about is why you’ve been going around town, bargaining with people and bribing them to see to it that our daughter will win that contest,” she accused. 

Abel answered as Joe entered the saloon, having forgotten his hat, “There’s nothing wrong with a little promotion.” 

“Well, you’re going too far. I’m pulling her out of the contest,” Eloise insisted. 

A smirk appeared on Joe’s lips having overheard. 

Abel pleaded, “Darling, please, it’s only for a couple more days. Think of how great it’s gonna be for us when she wins.” 

“You mean for you, Abel. Don’t you?” 

Abel sighed and placed his hands on her shoulders. “Look, I’m sorry, but I have to ensure that she wins. Don’t you understand?” Joe’s smile faded when Abel questioned, “What chance does she have without it?” 

Eloise stared at him in disbelief. “All right, Abel. If that’s how you really feel then I hope for her sake that she does win.” 

She whipped around and stormed through the saloon doors. 

“Eloise…” Abel slumped his shoulders when he turned and saw Joe with a scornful expression on his face. “What are you looking at?” he grumbled. 

Joe scoffed. “Nothing Abel— nothing at all. You know I always thought you were a spoiled, self-righteous brat, but now I know you’re much more than that.” Abel wasted no time in showing his annoyance when Joe questioned, “You really don’t think your daughter can win on her own, do you?” 

“Well, we can’t all be successful and beautiful,” Abel griped. 

Abel’s words further angered Joe. “She’s your daughter. You’re the most important person in her life. What’s she gonna think if she finds out her own father doesn’t think she’s beautiful?” 

Abel trembled, “Now, don’t be ridiculous. Of course I think she’s beautiful.” 

Joe shook his head. “No, I don’t think you do or else you wouldn’t have to bribe anyone to see to it that she wins. You see the difference between you and me, Abel, is that even if my daughter doesn’t win, I’ll still think she’s the most beautiful girl in the world. I would think the judges are wrong. Except in your case I think you would believe the judges are right. You know I do feel sorry for your daughter. But not because I don’t think she’ll win the contest… I’m sorry she has a father like you.” 

Joe pushed past Abel and through the saloon doors. 

As Joe untethered Cochise from the post, Candy took notice of his sudden change in demeanor and questioned him about it. 

“It’s nothing,” Joe huffed. “Let’s just get back to the ranch.” 

Joe mounted Cochise while Candy shrugged his shoulders and mounted his horse before they both rode off in the direction of the Ponderosa. 

*****

Later that evening, Joe had wandered out onto the porch to get some fresh air. As he stared up at the evening sky, Abel’s words began to penetrate his mind, making him do some reflecting of his own. 

He barely heard Alice open the door and step onto the porch. She came up next to him and from the look on his face, she knew something was troubling him and asked if he was all right. 

Joe exhaled a long breath. “Yeah, I just came out here to think I suppose. Something Abel said in town,” he added softly.

Alice’s mouth formed an oval shape. “Oh. You let him get to you again, didn’t you?” 

“Yeah, but it’s more than that.” Joe shook his head with a scoff. “I feel pretty selfish right now. Not only that, I feel like a lousy father.” 

Alice’s brows creased. “Why’s that?”

“Because I was so focused on winning this contest, I couldn’t see how I was hurting my own daughter. I was so sure she could win it. I didn’t want to think about the possibility that she might not and what that might do to her if she ever found out. How would I explain to her that the judges didn’t think she was beautiful enough to win the contest?” 

Alice met Joe’gaze, wondering how as a mother, she would explain that to her daughter herself. Joe interrupted Alice’s thoughts with a story. 

“I remember there was a friend of Pa’s who came to visit the Ponderosa with his daughter many years ago. Her name was Maggie Dowling. She wasn’t plain or homely or anything like that, but her father made her believe she was. He believed no man would ever want to marry her because she just wasn’t pretty enough. But he was wrong and I proved to him just how wrong he really was. I couldn’t help but think that if I had a daughter, I would never want her to feel that way. I would see to it that she would know just how beautiful she really is. Well, now I do have a daughter—and I want her to know that.” That brought a smile to Alice’s face when Joe added, “The thought of breaking her heart just tears me up inside. I can’t let that happen—so I won’t.” 

“What are you saying?” she asked. 

“I’m saying that I’m gonna pull her out of the contest.” 

Alice touched his face and gave him a soft kiss on the cheek. “Now that is the Joe Cartwright I know and love.” 

“I’m never gonna hear the end of it, but I’d rather endure Abel and the talk of the town than seeing my daughter hurt.” 

“You don’t know how happy I am to hear you say that. I’m proud of you.” 

Joe smiled as he wrapped his arm around her shoulder. “Thanks. I’ll ride into town tomorrow. I’m sorry for how I acted these past few days.” 

Alice gave a faint smile. “It’s alright.” 

“And I’ll return all the things I bought for her,” he added.” 

“No, it’s fine, she can keep them, but just promise me you won’t spoil her with anything else for a little while, okay?” 

Joe gave a soft chuckle. “I promise. Come on, I want to take one last look at that beautiful baby girl of ours before we go to bed.” 

Joe pulled her shoulder towards him and they both stepped back inside the house. 

*****

The next day, Joe revealed his decision to his pa at the Ponderosa. Ben was seated in his chair as he expressed his support. 

“Well, I think you’re making the right decision, Joseph.” 

Joe sat on the armrest of the settee as he nodded in agreement. “Yeah. Everytime I look at her now I know I made the right decision.” 

“You know I think if Hoss were here right now, he would be proud of you.” 

The thought brought a warm smile to Joe’s face. “I just hope that if Sara does ever find out about that contest, she would forgive me for it.” 

“She would,” Ben nodded. “Because she would know just how much her father cares for her.” 

Joe lowered his gaze. “I just wish Abel could see it.” 

“Well, maybe he will. You certainly gave him something to think about.” 

“I really hope he does, Pa—for his daughter’s sake.” 

All of a sudden, Candy rushed through the door and quickly closed it shut behind him. 

“Phew. I think I finally lost them.” 

Joe rose from the armrest of the settee as he stared at a disheveled-looking Candy. “What the heck happened to you?” 

Candy held his hand out as he complained, “I don’t understand how one contest about babies— babies! Can turn the whole town on its head? And these—these women are….animals!” 

Ben crinkled his eyebrows. “What happened to your eye?” 

Candy touched a purple spot underneath his eye. “Oh, that was uh…just a little misunderstanding with one of the husbands.” 

Ben raised his eyebrows and tried to bite back a smirk. Joe tried to keep from laughing himself when he tapped his finger against Candy’s shoulder. “Hey, I got some good news for you.” 

“Good, because I could use it.” Candy straightened his crooked blue neckerchief. 

“I’m pulling Sara out of the contest.” 

Candy’s head perked up as his eyes met Joe’s. “You are?” 

“Yeah, she’s out of the competition.” 

Candy breathed a sigh of relief and placed his hand on his shoulder. “Thanks, Joe. You don’t know what this means.” 

Joe patted his shoulder. “It’s no problem. And hey, I’m sorry if I gave you such a hard time. You’re right, no contest should ever come between our friendship.” 

Candy gave a small smile. “Already forgotten about.” 

“Thanks, but can you do me one favor?” 

“What?” 

“Don’t vote for Abel’s kid.”

“I don’t want to, but I gotta be honest in this contest.” 

Joe sighed. “Yeah, I know. On second thought it might be better if you do, for his little girl’s sake.” 

Candy rubbed the back of his neck. “I do know one thing, once this contest is over I’m taking a nice long vacation somewhere where there isn’t a mother and baby for miles.” 

Joe gave a soft boyish giggle when there was a knock at the door. 

Candy answered the door to a handful of mothers with their babies all chattering away at once. He slammed the door shut and pressed his back up against it. Ben and Joe exchanged bewildered expressions. Candy, still able to hear the chatter from the other side of the door, swallowed hard, wanting to get as far away from there as possible. 

Chapter Five 

The day of the baby contest had finally arrived. As Joe predicted, word spread fast that Joe Cartwright had dropped his daughter out of the contest forcing him to endure the whispers and murmurs from folks in town. Joe stood by his decision however and chose to ignore them. 

The contest was held in The Palace Hotel like in the previous year and Bert Rubush officiated the ceremony. Joe arrived with Alice, holding Sara Marie, while Ben and Jamie trailed behind them through the hotel doors. 

The room was filled with mothers and their babies as well as the many citizens of Virginia City. The noise of the crowd and crying of babies was drowned out by the music from the band playing. Joe scanned the crowd and spotted Abel with his wife, holding their little girl. “There he is,” Joe groaned. 

Abel grinned from ear to ear making Joe shake his head in disgust. “If only I could get my hands on him, I’d…” 

“Joe. You promised you’d behave yourself,” Alice reminded him. “We’re here for Candy, remember?” 

Joe sighed. “I know, I know. Let’s get this over with.” 

He placed his hand over Alice’s back and they stepped further into the room. 

When Abel caught sight of Joe, he couldn’t resist the temptation to rub the fact that Joe was out of the competition in his face. With an arrogant smile, he strolled over to Joe. 

“Well, I’m surprised to see you here at the contest, Joe.” 

“I’m just here to support my friend, that’s all,” Joe told him in a civil tone. 

“I’m sorry the contest didn’t work out for you, Joe. I really am.” 

Joe didn’t buy his sympathy. “Yeah.” 

“I’ll see you up there when the judges announce the winner,” Abel stated with confidence. 

“Well, I just hope for her sake your daughter does win, Abel.” 

Abel’s smile faltered a bit before he rejoined his wife and daughter. 

Knowing how hard that was for Joe, Alice gave a smile that showed how proud she was of him. Joe returned the smile and they waited for the contest to begin. 

Meanwhile, Candy pulled back a red curtain, sneaking a peek at the crowd. He was dressed in a gray suit which he hadn’t worn since Joe’s wedding to Alice. He was never interested in what Hoss would refer to as getting “duded up” for fancy dinner parties. He preferred his casual work clothes, but he was willing to make an exception for that particular occasion. 

The truth was it didn’t matter to him as much as getting the contest over with. He closed the curtain and glanced over at the other men chosen to judge the contest. One of the men named Charlie, paced the room with his hands stuffed in his pockets while the other man, Stuart, sat in a chair, tapping his fingers against a table. 

Charlie stopped pacing and shot an irritated glance at Stuart. “Oh, would you please stop that imprudent tapping!” 

Stuart stopped tapping and squeaked, “I’m nervous!” 

Charlie shifted his gaze over to Candy. “How’s it look out there?” 

Candy took another peek behind the curtain. 

“It looks like they got the whole town out there.” 

Charlie and Stuart darted over to the curtain and took a peek when the music stopped playing. 

“I think they’re about ready now,” Candy indicated. 

“Oh good, let me know how it turns out.” 

Stuart tried to make a break for it when Candy grabbed him by the shoulder and pulled him back. 

Outside, Bert Rubush got the attention of the crowd. He went over the rules of the contest and reminded them of the prize money and trophy before he instructed the mothers to place their babies inside of the numbered baskets for the judging to begin. 

After the mothers placed their babies inside of the baskets, Bert introduced the judges and cued the music. 

Candy stepped out first while Stuart and Charlie huddled close behind him. Bert advised, “All right ladies, step back so the judges can get a good look.” 

After the mothers stepped away from their babies, Candy and the other judges moved towards the baskets. 

As Candy, Charlie, and Stuart each observed the babies, some of them cried, a few babbled, while others giggled away at them. Candy came across one that was sound asleep, oblivious to the commotion around him. A smile crept up on Candy’s lips as he moved along to the next baby. 

A little while later, while the crowd chatted and mingled about, Candy, Charlie, and Stuart were still deciding on a winner. 

Candy leaned back against a fireplace mantle while Charlie and Stuart sat at the table. Silence filled the room until Stuart rose from the table. 

“Maybe we should take just one more look.” 

“We already went out there twice, you wanna look again?” Candy questioned impatiently. 

Stuart sat back down when Candy informed them, “I made my decision. And we’re all in agreement, right?” 

Charlie nodded. “Right.” 

Candy glanced over at Stuart who hung his head down. Charlie swung his elbow into Stuart’s side whose head snapped up and yelped. “Right,” he stuttered. 

Candy sighed. “All right. Let’s go.” 

Stuart got up from the table along with Charlie and they followed Candy through the red curtain. 

When Bert saw them emerge from the red curtain, he signaled to the band. 

“Well, have you gentlemen come to a decision?” he asked. 

Candy answered, “We have. We think the most beautiful baby in Virginia City is….Susie Stanton.” 

Eloise smiled along with Abel who excitedly jumped up on stage past Eloise while the crowd gave a scattered applause. 

Abel snatched the trophy out of Bert’s hands. “Well, this is quite a surprise,” he chuckled. “And what an honor to know that the citizens of this wonderful town think that my little Susie is the most beautiful baby in all of Virginia City.” 

The mothers ignored Abel’s speech and gathered their babies inside of the baskets. While on stage, Bert interrupted Abel. 

“Ahem. Well, that’s all we have time for. Congratulations to your little one, Mr. Stanton. Good day.” 

Abel stepped down off of the stage and came up to Eloise, proudly holding the trophy up for her to see. “Well, we won.” 

“Yes, and I hope it was worth it, Abel.”  

After Eloise went to get their daughter, Abel spotted Joe and couldn’t resist the urge to gloat. 

“Well, it looks like I won, Joe.” 

Joe tried to keep a civil tongue. “Yeah, Abel, your kid won, fair and square. Congratulations.” 

“And to show there are no hard feelings, why don’t we call off the bet we made, hm?” 

Joe’s tone held a bit of sarcasm. “Well, that’s very big of you, Abel. Thanks.” 

Abel spotted Candy and hurried over to him. 

“Oh, Mr. Canaday!” Candy turned around as Abel approached him. He took some money out of his wallet and handed it over to Candy. “Since you held your end of the bargain, here’s double the prize money for you.” 

Candy looked down at the money and scoffed with a half-smile. “I’m afraid I can’t accept that.” 

Abel crinkled his brows. “Why not?” 

“Because believe it or not, Abel, we voted based on a little thing called honesty. You ought to try it sometime.” 

Abel’s smile morphed into a frown. As Candy went over to Ben and Jamie, Joe approached Abel. 

“I hope you enjoy that trophy, Abel—considering it seems to be the only thing you care about.”  

After Joe left Abel to continue celebrating his victory alone, Joe joined Candy, Jamie, Alice, and his pa. 

Ben stated to Candy, “Well, I’m sure you’re happy that’s over with, hm?” 

Candy let out a quick breath. “Oh, yeah.” He lowered his gaze on little Sara in Alice’s arms. “I just hope my little goddaughter here doesn’t have any hard feelings towards me.” 

He brushed his hand over her curls as Alice giggled, “Not at all.” 

Joe patted Candy on the shoulder. “Why don’t you have supper at our place tonight?” 

Candy flashed a smile. “I’d be glad to.” 

Ben interjected, “No, you will not, because you both are having supper at the Ponderosa tonight.” 

Candy and Joe exchanged glances when Joe shrugged, “We can’t exactly say no, we work for him.” 

Ben chuckled. “Let’s go home.” 

The Cartwrights along with Candy left the Palace Hotel and had supper together as a family that evening. 

The End

Author’s notes: The character of Maggie Dowling was featured in the season 8 episode, The Bridegroom.