{"id":69884,"date":"2026-09-17T14:46:49","date_gmt":"2026-09-17T18:46:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=69884"},"modified":"2026-09-19T23:12:00","modified_gmt":"2026-09-20T03:12:00","slug":"the-baby-contest-by-melissar1992","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/?p=69884","title":{"rendered":"The Baby Contest (By MelissaR1992)"},"content":{"rendered":"

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Rating: G<\/span><\/p>\n

Word Count: 10,775<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/span>
\nForever Reimagined series:\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Vengeance is Mine (By MelissaR1992)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

No More Promises (By MelissaR1992)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The Second Honeymoon (By MelissaR1992)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Remember Me (By MelissaR1992)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Once In A Lifetime (By MelissaR1992)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

The Most Precious Gift of All (By MelissaR1992)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

To Love, Honor, and Cherish (By MelissaR1992)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Trapped (By MelissaR1992)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

Amelia, My Love (By MelissaR1992)<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n

<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chapter One\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It was a beautiful, sunny day in Virginia City, Nevada as Dusty Rhodes, an old friend of the Cartwrights, hung posters all over town.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Meanwhile, Joe Cartwright and his good friend, foreman of the Ponderosa, Candy Canaday, came riding up on their horses.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After they dismounted and tethered the reins to the hitching post of a general store, Candy glanced over at the Silver Dollar. \u201cDo you think we have time for a beer before we head back?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy seemed to read Joe\u2019s mind. \u201cI was just about to suggest the same thing.\u201d Candy flashed a grin and Joe placed his hand over his shoulder. \u201cCome on.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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. \u201cHey, Dusty.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Dusty stopped midway through hammering in another nail and acknowledged Joe and Candy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, hi, Joe\u2014Candy.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy greeted Dusty with a tip of his hat when Joe pointed to the poster. \u201cWhat’s this about?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

With a puzzled expression, Rusty examined the poster and shrugged, \u201cWell, I don’t rightly know, Joe. This fella named Bert handed me these posters and told me to hang them up all over town.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe and Candy took a closer look at one of the posters. Joe read out loud, \u201cThe Second Annual \u201cBaby Contest\u201d 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, \u201cMost beautiful baby of Virginia City\u201d.\u201d\u00a0<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe crinkled his face. \u201cOh, not this stupid thing again.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it?\u201d Candy asked in curiosity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, it’s this baby contest they’re having here in Virginia City.\u201d Joe shook his head at the poster.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy scrunched his eyebrows. \u201cBaby contest?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, 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…\u201d Joe pointed his index finger upwards. \u201cOne hundred dollars.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy shook his head. \u201cA baby contest. That’s the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cTell me about it.\u201d Joe lowered his gaze at the poster as he told Candy, \u201cI remember Hoss was one of the judges a few years back.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

With creased eyebrows, Candy searched his memory. \u201cI don’t remember that.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was after you left us for a while and Jamie came along.\u201d Joe shook his head and gave a soft chuckle. \u201cPoor 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

They heard a woman’s voice call out to Joe. Joe and Candy turned around and saw Joe\u2019s wife, Alice holding Sara Marie in her arms, approach them.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe greeted her with a smile. \u201cOh, hi. What are you doing here in town? I thought you said you were gonna stop by the ranch and visit Pa.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI was, but I thought I’d stop by the post office and see if there was any mail for us.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe leaned his arm against the post near him. \u201cOh, well I could have done that for you, I’m here in town anyway.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I know…\u201d Alice lowered her gaze and hesitated, her face flushing a shade of pink. \u201cI just thought I could use some fresh air, that’s all.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe squinted his eyes at her. \u201cUh, this wouldn’t have anything to do with that sale at that little boutique Miss Johnson told you about now, would it?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice bit down on her lower lip and confessed, \u201cWell, there is this beautiful new dress I saw in the display window.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe smirked. \u201cWell, why don’t you go and buy it then?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice\u2019s face lit up with a big smile. \u201cReally?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, as long as I get to see you in that dress when you get back,\u201d he hinted.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice\u2019s smile shifted into a shy one and her cheeks flushed red before Joe kissed one of them. Alice\u2019s attention turned to the poster. \u201cWhat’s that?\u201d she asked.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked down at the poster in his hand. \u201cOh, it’s just about this baby contest they’re having here in town.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice scoffed with a smile, \u201cWhat?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, it’s a contest to see who the most beautiful baby in Virginia City is,\u201d Joe clarified.<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice looked down at their daughter. \u201cWell, I hope you’re not thinking of entering our daughter into that silly contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s voice showed his annoyance at the accusation. \u201cOf course not. I already know who the most beautiful baby in Virginia City is because she takes right after her mother.\u201d Alice\u2019s lips formed a small smirk and Joe leaned in and kissed them. \u201cI’ll see you later.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As Joe snuck a kiss on Sara\u2019s cheek, Alice said goodbye to Candy. After Alice left, Joe turned to Candy and patted his shoulder. \u201cCome on, let’s have that beer, huh?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

One of the men was Abel Stanton, the son of one of the new members of the Cattleman Association, Miles Stanton who Joe loathed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel boasted to the other men at the table with a cocky smile, \u201cI’m absolutely sure my little Susie is a shoo-in to win the contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

One of the men at the table scoffed at the notion. \u201cHow can you be so sure of that?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you only have to look at her to see that she’s the most beautiful baby in all of Virginia City,\u201d Abel insisted. \u201cThat’s why I know she’ll win that contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe rolled his eyes and tried to enjoy his beer when out of the corner of his eye, he spotted Abel approaching him.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe Cartwright. I thought I recognized you.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe turned around and leaned back against the bar, holding his beer mug in his hand. \u201cOh, hey, Abel, I thought I smelled something rotten when I walked in here.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe took another sip of beer as Candy fought a smirk.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel narrowed his eyes. \u201cSo. Have you heard about the baby contest?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u201cYeah, and I think the whole thing is stupid. I don’t know whose bright idea it was to bring it back.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMy father’s,\u201d Abel answered.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe glanced over at Candy. \u201cOh, well that explains it.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy nodded with a sideways smirk while Joe gave a soft giggle and took another sip of beer.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel pressed his lips together. \u201cYou have a kid, don’t you, Joe?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, a little girl and no, I’m not entering her into the contest, thank you,\u201d Joe informed him.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel\u2019s voice showed disappointment. \u201cOh, well, that’s a shame. But it’s probably for the best anyway.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s lips lowered into a frown. \u201cWhat do you mean by that?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel explained. \u201cWell, to save her from going through that kind of rejection. I’m sure it would have some effect on her.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe raised his eyebrows. \u201cRejection?\u201d<\/em> The notion brought a chuckle out of him. \u201cWait a minute. Are you saying that she would have no chance at all of winning?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel stated, matter of factly, \u201cWell, if she looks anything like her father, I’d say she has absolutely no chance of winning.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s brows furrowed while Candy raised his and turned towards the bar.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you say?\u201d Joe demanded.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel\u2019s eyes locked on Joe\u2019s. \u201cYou heard me.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe slammed his beer mug down on the counter. Yeah, well, let me tell you something…\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe lunged at Abel when Candy held him back. \u201cJoe, don’t let him get you all riled up, he’s just all talk, remember?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, well, I’m not gonna just sit here and let him throw insults at me and my little girl either,\u201d Joe seethed as he pointed his finger accusingly at Abel.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel flashed a cocky smile, \u201cI’m just simply stating a fact.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe declared, \u201cWell, the fact is my daughter can<\/em> win that contest and she will.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel lifted an eyebrow. \u201cIs that so?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt is so!\u201d Joe turned towards the bar. \u201cSam, give me that paper.\u201d Sam slid over the baby contest register form and Joe signed his name down before he slammed the pen down on the counter. \u201cThere.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel smiled. \u201cNow, that’s the spirit, Joe, care to add a little wager?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHow much?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, how about the same as the prize money, one hundred dollars?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou’re on!\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cExcellent. Let’s see whose baby the town thinks is the most beautiful.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, and you’re gonna look pretty foolish when it turns out to be mine.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe’ll see. See you at the contest, Joe.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As Abel headed for the saloon doors, Joe smiled mockingly at him before he remarked, \u201cIt’s a good thing you don’t have a brother named Cain. Heh<\/em>.\u201d 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?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou just signed up for the baby contest, you know the one that Alice told you not to?\u201d Candy answered.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe rubbed his hand over his face and whimpered, dreading having to tell Alice he went against her wishes.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Later that evening, Joe confessed to Alice that he entered their daughter into the baby contest.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

An irritated Alice questioned as she prepared supper, \u201cJoe, how could you do it?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI’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.\u201d Joe pointed his finger at her. \u201cAnd he’s gonna soon find that out when he doesn’t win the contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice let out an aggravated sigh as she rested her hand from chopping carrots. \u201cJoe, that isn’t the point. You deliberately entered our baby into the contest after I specifically told you not to.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt was an accident!\u201d Joe exclaimed. \u201cAbel got me so mad, I didn’t even know what I was doing.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice muttered, \u201cMm-hm.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt’s the truth!\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, whatever the matter was, you are dropping her out of that contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe gave a frustrated sigh. \u201cOh, 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don’t care, Joe. I don’t want her in that contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy not?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBecause 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlice, 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?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThat doesn’t matter! It’s still wrong and I won’t have her being a part of it, I won’t.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe took a brief pause as he looked over at Alice. \u201cAll right, I get wanting to protect her and I do too, but think of it this way\u2026\u201d Joe wandered over to their daughter sitting in her high chair. He brushed his hand over her chestnut curls. \u201cHow wonderful would it be to know the people of this town think that our baby\u2014our sweet and adorable baby girl is considered the most beautiful baby in all of Virginia City?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

A small smile crept on Alice\u2019s lips. \u201cYes, but I already know she is because she’s our baby and I don’t need anyone else telling us that she is, okay?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As Alice got back to chopping carrots, Joe countered, \u201cBut think about that prize money, $200. I mean that’s a…\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice\u2019s brows creased. \u201cI thought the prize was for $100?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes widened, realizing he almost gave away the bet between him and Abel. \u201cRight,\u201d he squeaked. \u201c$100, that’s a lot of money.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe don’t need the money, Joe.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, uh\u2026\u201d He snapped his finger. \u201cYou know it’s never too early to start thinking about our daughter’s education.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice rolled her eyes as her patience started dwindling. \u201cJoe, we are not entering our daughter into that contest and that is final.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlice…\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEnd<\/em> of discussion.\u201d She pushed a bowl of vegetables towards him.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe took hold of the bowl and muttered, \u201cYes, ma’am.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u2019t dare give Abel that satisfaction, so he immediately began formulating a plan in his mind.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Two<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLook, why don’t you just call the whole thing off?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI can’t do that,\u201d Joe groaned. \u201cYou know how Abel is, he’d never let me live it down and besides that I’d be out a hundred dollars.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy offered his sympathy when Abel’s father, Miles Stanton walked up to their table and greeted Joe.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe locked eyes on him as a nervous smile formed. \u201cOh, Mr. Stanton, how are ya?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, fine. I heard about you entering your little one into the baby contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s forehead began to perspire. \u201cYeah, uh about that, sir\u2026\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I appreciate that, sir, but…\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I also want to say that I don’t approve of my son’s actions whatsoever, but you know how stubborn he can be.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe murmured, \u201cYeah, well…\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut I think it’s wonderful to have someone of your stature in the contest,\u201d Miles complimented.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s brows lifted. \u201cYou do?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhy, of course. You and your father are big names in this town\u2014highly established individuals held in high regard.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy muttered under his breath, \u201cIn other words, a hefty bank account.\u201d He took a sip from his beer mug.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Miles glanced over at Candy, eyebrows arched.\u00a0<\/span>\u201cWhat was that young man?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

Candy lifted his gaze. \u201cOh, nothing.\u201d He flashed a smile that showed not even a hint of guilt at him.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, ahem<\/em>. I have some business to attend to, but may the best man and baby win.\u201d Miles extended his hand towards Joe.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe gave a half-smile as he shook Miles\u2019 hand. \u201cThank you, sir.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood day, gentlemen.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After Miles left the saloon, Candy shook his head and scoffed. \u201cDid you see the way old moneybags was looking at me? He\u2019s probably wondering why you would even be seen with the likes of someone like me\u2014I’m cattle fodder to him.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe assured him, \u201cHey, don’t pay any attention to him, where do you think his son gets it from?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy shrugged his shoulders and proceeded to ask, \u201cSo, you still gonna pull her out of the contest?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe paused before he shook his head. \u201cNo. No, I am going through with that contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBut what about Alice?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe raised his shoulders slightly and stammered, \u201cI’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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy nodded his head and muttered in a serious tone, \u201cMm-hm.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe is my child too and I should have a say in this matter. I am keeping her in this contest and that’s that!\u201d Joe slapped his hand down on the table and then took a sip of beer.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy declared in a serious tone, \u201cThat’s the spirit, buddy, show her who’s boss.\u201d\u00a0<\/span>He bit back a smirk knowing full well that Joe wouldn\u2019t have the nerve to say that to Alice\u2019s face.\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCome on, we got work to do at the ranch, let’s go.\u201d Joe got up from the table and placed some money down while Candy rose from his seat and grabbed\u00a0his hat along with Joe before they both left the saloon.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u2019s attention.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, look who’s here.\u201d 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, \u201cWell, are you gonna tell her?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stood up straight and stated with confidence in his voice, \u201cYou bet I am.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe marched over to Alice while Candy shook his head with a grin before following right behind Joe. He wouldn\u2019t dare miss the exchange for anything.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice set the grocery sack down on the seat of the buggy when she heard her name being called.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlice<\/em>?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice turned around and a smile appeared. \u201cOh, hi, I wasn’t expecting to see you until later.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, well, uh\u2026\u201d Joe glanced over at Candy who furrowed his eyebrows and nodded in encouragement. Joe turned to face Alice. \u201cAhem. There\u2019s something I wanna tell you.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh? What\u2019s that?\u201d Alice asked in curiosity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe opened his mouth to speak, but soon slumped his shoulders down and instead smoothed his hand over the fabric of Alice\u2019s dress. \u201cIs this that new dress you bought? It looks very pretty on you\u2014very pretty.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice smiled. \u201cIt is, thank you.\u201d Candy shook his head as his lips formed a wide grin while Alice kissed Joe\u2019s cheek. \u201cI’ll see you later.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe gave a half-smile. \u201cYeah.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After Joe helped Alice into the buggy, she drove off and Joe sheepishly made his way over to Candy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy crossed his arm with a shake of his head.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBoy, you sure told her, huh?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shot a look of annoyance at him, unamused. \u201cShut up.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe stomped over to his horse while Candy burst out laughing before following after him.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The next day, Alice browsed a boutique in town when Abel\u2019s wife, Eloise Stanton, holding her little girl, Susie, recognized her.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlice?\u201d Alice lifted her head as Eloise approached her. \u201cHi, you remember me, I’m Abel Stanton’s wife, Eloise?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice smiled. \u201cOh, yes, of course, hello. It’s a pleasure to see you again.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a pleasure to see you again too. I suppose you heard about the contest and our husbands entering our babies into it.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice took notice of the irritation in Eloise\u2019s voice, which she shared. \u201cYes, I have and I think the whole thing is absolutely ridiculous which is why I had Joe pull our baby out of the contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Eloise\u2019s mouth formed an oval shape. \u201cOh. Well, according to Abel, your baby is still in the contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice\u2019s brows creased in confusion. \u201cOh?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and like you I think the whole thing is silly especially that bet they made.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBet<\/em>?\u201d Alice gritted.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, can you believe they bet $100 over our babies? It’s absolutely absurd.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice pressed her lips together firmly. \u201cOh, they did, did they?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Eloise sighed. \u201cI tried to talk him out of it, but he wouldn’t do it. It’s that stubborn pride of his.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBelieve me, I know how you feel, Eloise,\u201d Alice sympathized.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Eloise shifted her little girl in her arms, bouncing her slightly. \u201cWell, 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure, sounds lovely.\u201d Alice faked a smile.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood, well, it was nice seeing you again, Alice. Take care.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou too.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, honey? You got that water for me yet?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust about!\u201d\u00a0<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Alice stepped into the room with a mischievous smile. Before she had her fun, she decided to test him first.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, did you drop Sara out of the contest like I asked you to?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe paused mid-scrub and trembled, \u201cYeah. Yeah, you told me to, didn’t ya?\u201d He chuckled nervously.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She nodded with a small smirk. \u201cMm-hm.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that’s what I did,\u201d Joe affirmed. \u201cShe’s out of the contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood. I ran into Eloise Stanton in town today.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s head perked up\u2014his eyes widening slightly. \u201cOh?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and do you know what she told me? She told me that Abel told her that our daughter is still in the contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe swallowed hard. \u201cShe did?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMm-hm. She also told me that you and Abel made a bet on that contest for $100.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI-I can explain about that, you see…\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don’t want to hear it, Joe.\u201d She stepped out of the room briefly and walked back in with a bucket of water. \u201cHere’s your water.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She poured the ice cold water down his back causing Joe to nearly jump up out of the tub. He shrieked, \u201cAh! Ooh. Alice!\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice threw a towel over his head and then stormed out the door as Joe sank down into the water.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shot an annoyed glance at her before he turned to her and pleaded, \u201cAlice, come on. I said I was sorry.\u201d When she didn\u2019t respond, he let out a sigh. \u201cAll 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\u2014I 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice finally spoke. \u201cAnd that’s exactly the problem, Joe, you care more about what people think of you than you do your own family.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlice, that’s not true.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes it is, if it weren’t, then you would pull her out of the contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, what’s so wrong about wanting our daughter to be in the contest?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe, I already told you why. I don’t want her getting hurt.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAlice, do you really think I would let that happen? I’m her father, don’t you trust me?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOf 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I give you permission to cuff\u2019em one on the ear then.\u201d The suggestion brought a smirk to Alice\u2019s lips. Joe reassured her, \u201cYou 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?\u201d As reluctant as she was, the thought brought a smile to her face. \u201cCome on, I hate it when you’re mad at me.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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. \u201cAll right.\u201d Joe removed his lips from her neck and Alice turned onto her back. \u201cYou can keep her in the contest.\u201d A wide smile appeared on Joe\u2019s face when Alice added, \u201cBut if it goes too far, then we’re pulling her out, okay?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAll right, you have my word,\u201d Joe promised.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice sighed. \u201cYou know, you’re lucky I find you charming and handsome.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe flashed a grin. \u201cI love you.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u2014and rightly so.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Three<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe looked through a display table and picked up a small white-laced dress. He held it up and showed it to Candy. \u201cHey, cute, ain’t it?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy nodded with an awkward smile and nervously rubbed the back of his neck as he eyed the exit door.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe spotted the sales lady and strode up to the counter. \u201cHey, Lisa, put this on the bill too, will ya?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy followed Joe up to the counter and planted his hand down on top of it. \u201cCan we get outta here now?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out his wallet. \u201cYeah, let me just pay for this and we’ll head back.\u201d He lifted his gaze towards the sales lady. \u201cHow much do I owe you?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She slid the bill across the counter towards Joe who raised his eyebrows at the price and whistled. \u201cThis contest is getting awfully expensive.\u201d He took some money out of his wallet and handed it over to the sales lady.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy couldn\u2019t help himself. \u201cHey, uh, buddy, don’t you think you’re overdoing it a little?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe gave a quick shake of his head. \u201cNo, I just want my little girl to look her best for the judges\u2014let them see what kind of competition they got, that’s all.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but if Alice finds out…\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI only promised Alice that if it goes too far, then I’ll pull her out of the contest, so far it hasn’t.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy shrugged his shoulders. \u201cAll right, as long as you know what you’re doing.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCandy, buddy…\u201d He slapped his shoulder. \u201cDon’t worry, I have complete control over this.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The sales lady handed Joe his receipt and he thanked her before he then scanned the boutique. \u201cWhere’s Sara?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy looked around and shrugged, \u201cI don’t know, I thought you had her.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe squeaked, \u201cWhat? I told you to watch her.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy\u2019s eyes widened. \u201cMe<\/em>?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe rushed past him out of the door and Candy hurried after him.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The woman smiled and made Sara giggle when Joe approached her. \u201cExcuse me, ma’am? I believe you got my little girl there.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, she’s yours?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe nodded. \u201cYeah.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh.\u201d Joe took her out of her arms. \u201cWell, you ought to be more careful,\u201d she stated.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou’re right, ma’am, I will. Thank you.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The woman held her gaze on Sara and smiled. \u201cShe’s an adorable little girl.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, I think so too.\u201d Joe\u2019s head perked up. \u201cWhich is exactly why I entered her into that baby contest they’re having here in Virginia City.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, well, she certainly has my vote.\u201d She brushed her fingers underneath Sara’s chin.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe glanced over at Candy and winked before he redirected his attention towards the woman and flashed a big smile. \u201cThank you very much, ma’am. You’re too kind.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The woman said her goodbyes and walked off down the street when Joe excitedly turned to Candy. \u201cShe’s gonna win it.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but it’s the judges you gotta convince, not the town.\u201d Candy brushed his hand over Sara’s chestnut curls.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, 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!\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0\u201cAll right. I just think you’re in way over your head with this one,\u201d Candy expressed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe took offense to Candy\u2019s accusation. \u201cCandy, I must say I am quite surprised at you. I mean you should have more confidence in your goddaughter.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy held up his hands. \u201cHey, I’m just saying as your friend to take it easy, that’s all.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe lowered his gaze at Sara. \u201cWell, we’re doing just fine, thank you.\u201d Candy shrugged his shoulders and didn\u2019t question Joe again. Joe looked out into the crowd. \u201cI should get her back to Alice. It’s probably best if we don’t mention this little incident that happened.\u201d He gave a nervous chuckle.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, you mean the fact that you lost her?\u201d Candy mentioned.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shot an irritated glance at Candy and smiled mockingly at him. \u201cLet’s just get the stuff and get outta here, please.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe headed back inside the boutique while Candy grinned and followed after him.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBen, the real reason I’m here. We\u2019re needing a third judge for the baby contest and well, since your son, Hoss, judged in the contest before\u2026we thought it would be an honor if you would be our third judge.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben shifted in his seat, unable to hide his uneasiness with the idea. \u201cI appreciate the offer, but I really don’t think I’m qualified to be a judge.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, well, you’re more than qualified, Ben! You’re a very honest, fair and upstanding citizen of this town with a good reputation too.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben gave a small smile. \u201cYes, 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Bert\u2019s voice showed disappointment. \u201cOh, I see, you’ve got a point there.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben added, \u201cPlus 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI understand, Ben.\u201d Bert got up from the settee. \u201cWell, we’ll just have to keep looking. I appreciate your time, Ben.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben shook his hand. \u201cOf course.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Suddenly, the door opened and Candy strolled in. \u201cBen? Luke and Hal were over by the south fence and found a couple strays out there.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, well, thank you for telling me. Just tell them to move them over to the north fence in case it’s down again,\u201d Ben instructed.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy nodded with a grin. \u201cYou got it, boss.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When Candy headed for the door, Bert pointed his finger at him and shouted, \u201cYou!\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Startled, Candy turned around and Bert approached him. \u201cYou look like an honest upstanding citizen.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy briefly scanned the living room. \u201cI do?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes. How would you like to be a judge in the baby contest?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben lifted his brows with intrigue while Candy chuckled and pointed to himself. \u201cMe?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, you.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy\u2019s voice showed a hint of nervousness as he chuckled, \u201cOh. No, I\u2019m the wrong fella for that job, mister.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I don’t think so.\u201d Bert turned to Ben and inquired, \u201cBen, he’s your employee, you can vouch for him. Do you think that uh…\u201d He turned towards Candy. \u201cI’m sorry, I didn’t get your name.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt’s Candy, but\u2026\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCandy. Do you think that Candy would make a good judge for the contest?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy stared at Ben with desperation in his eyes, almost pleading with him.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, uh…yes. Yes, I think he would,\u201d Ben nodded.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy’s mouth opened when Bert spoke. \u201cExcellent! I’m sure you’ll pick a real winner, mister\u2026\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCanaday,\u201d Candy stuttered.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMr. Canaday.\u201d He held his hand out to him. \u201cSee you at the contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy shook his hand with a nervous chuckle. “Wait a minute\u2026.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNice seeing you, Ben.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As Bert headed to the door, Candy tried to stop him. \u201cUh, wait a minute, sir\u2014sir!\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Bert grabbed his hat and coat. \u201cGood day to you now.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy pleaded, \u201cIf you would just let me…\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u2019s direction. \u201cWell, you certainly were a big help.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben shrugged, his voice showing innocence. \u201cI was just being honest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy expressed his thanks in a sharp tone. Ben bit back a smirk when the door opened and Joe strode in.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, Pa. Did Candy tell you about the strays Hal and Luke found?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, yes, he did,\u201d Ben replied.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe pointed to the door. \u201cWas that the fella running the contest who I saw riding off just now?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Bert Rubush.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0\u201cWhat was he doing here?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he stopped by to ask me to be a judge in the baby contest in which I so graciously declined.\u201d Ben then added, \u201cBut while he was here, he did manage to find a third judge for the contest after all.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy\u2019s muscles tightened while Joe smiled\u2014his interest piqued. \u201cOh, yeah? Who?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben moved his gaze towards Candy. \u201cCandy.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s eyes darted to Candy who closed his tight. \u201cHey, no kidding, he picked you?\u201d 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\u2019s shoulder. \u201cBuddy.\u201d Candy\u2019s head snapped up and he stared at Joe. \u201cWhy don’t we step outside and have a little chat, come on.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy\u2019s eyes followed Joe\u2019s arm wrapping around his shoulder and leading him to the door when he broke away from his grasp.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh no. I know what you’re trying to do, Joe and it’s not gonna work.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe held his hands out as he took a step towards him. \u201cI just wanna talk to my best friend about the contest, that’s all.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cStay away from me, Joe, I mean it.\u201d Candy backed up towards the door.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cHey, come on, don’t be like that, just let me…\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo!\u201d Candy opened the door and bolted out of it.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cCandy! Hey!\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe hurried after him, repeatedly calling his name.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben could no longer help himself and he burst into fits of laughter, amused by his foreman\u2019s predicament.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Four\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As the baby contest drew near, the pressure mounted, especially for Candy now that he was selected\u2014against his better judgment, as one of the judges for the contest.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

On top of that, Candy had to deal with Joe in his ear, trying and failing to sway his vote towards his little goddaughter.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe hurled a sack of grain over the back of a wagon as he expressed his frustration with him. \u201cOh, come on, Candy, she’s your goddaughter, you gotta vote for her.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy let out an irritated sigh. \u201cThis is exactly the problem I wanted to avoid, Joe, and why I wanted out of this contest.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo get out of it then.\u201d Joe grabbed hold of another sack of grain.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy scrunched his face. \u201cI 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, he\u2019s got a point, you know,\u201d Joe shrugged.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy lifted an eyebrow. \u201cLook, 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe raised his hands and squeaked, \u201cAll right, fine. You vote however you think is fair.\u201d Candy creased his eyebrows, not quite buying Joe\u2019s change of heart. Joe rambled, \u201cNevermind the fact that you’re my best friend who’s practically like a brother to me.\u201d Candy rolled his eyes. \u201cAnd who I wanted to be the godfather of my child, forget about that,\u201d Joe added.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy gave a half-smile and dryly retorted, \u201cYou know, Joe, it’s nice to know this contest won’t affect our friendship.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As Candy helped Joe load the rest of the grain onto the wagon, he heard the voice of a woman call out to him.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Mr. Canaday?\u201d\u00a0<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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. \u201cHowdy, ma\u2019am.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou are Mr. Canaday, aren\u2019t you?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but you can call me Candy,\u201d he insisted.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe rolled his eyes when the woman asked Candy, \u201cI wondered if I might have a word with you if I could?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSure.\u201d Candy followed her to the hitching post.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She turned around and held a photo out towards him. \u201cI 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?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy firmly pressed his lips together, catching onto her little scheme. \u201cMa’am? This wouldn’t have anything to do with the baby contest, would it?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh. Well…\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Her hesitation answered his question. Candy nodded with a smile. \u201cNot interested, sorry.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As he started walking away, the woman begged,\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, please. He really is the cutest baby, honest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy droned as he kept on walking, \u201cI’m sure he is.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He stopped short however when another woman came up to him, holding a baby in her arms.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Mr. Canaday, I was wondering if you would mind…\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The other woman stepped in front of Candy and barked, \u201cOh, stay out of this, Miriam, I saw him first.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, why don’t we let Mr. Canaday decide that, Teresa? After all, he is the one who will be helping pick the winner.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you’re wasting your time. I think we know whose baby is going to win that contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou’re absolutely right, Teresa. It’s going to be mine.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt’s going to be mine!\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy whipped his head back and forth between them when Miriam turned to Candy. \u201cWell, before you decide on that, Mr. Canaday, I feel you should know something about Teresa\u2019s baby.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Teresa gasped. \u201cDon’t you dare say anything about my Henry!\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

They started arguing back and forth with each other when Candy tried to diffuse the situation.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cUh, excuse me, ma’am? Ma\u2019am!\u201d They continued bickering. \u201cLadies!\u201d he shouted.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy stood there dumbfounded when he glanced over at Joe whose head was tilted slightly to the right with a smile on his face.<\/span><\/p>\n

Knowing Joe was no help whatsoever, Candy threw his hands up in the air and placed them over his hips when Joe finally intervened.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cLadies, ladies, please.\u201d The two women stopped their bickering and turned their attention towards Joe. \u201cNow, I don’t mean any disrespect, but you two ought to be absolutely ashamed of yourselves.\u201d Joe reached over and pulled Candy\u2019s shoulder towards him. \u201cNow 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?\u201d Joe flashed a smile at him while patting his shoulder.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy pursed his lips, fighting the urge to pound Joe. \u201cRight.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNow, if you would please, ladies, let my friend be and just run along. Run along.\u201d Joe motioned his hands forward.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Both women apologized and ashamedly walked away from them.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As Joe watched them walk down the boardwalk and part ways, Candy remarked, \u201cYou know, it’s always nice to know I can count on you, Joe.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe flashed a big smile. \u201cAnytime, buddy. Anytime.\u201d He patted his shoulder.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

With a roll of his eyes, Candy moved away from Joe and headed back over to the wagon. Joe grinned and followed after Candy\u2014not willing to give up without a fight.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He answered the door and to his surprise, it was Alice. \u201cOh, Alice.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She greeted him with a smile. \u201cHello Ben.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben motioned his hand towards the settee and gave a very enthusiastic, \u201cCome in.\u201d After Alice stepped through the door, Ben met her near his desk before he mentioned, \u201cThere was no reason to knock, you are family after all.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice gave a faint smile. \u201cI know.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo what brings you by here? Joe\u2019s not here if you’re looking for him.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, no, I actually wanted to talk to you.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s head perked up with intrigue. \u201cOh? What about?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice lowered her gaze as she fidgeted with her hands. She took a quick breath. \u201cBen, you\u2019re Joe\u2019s father. You probably know him better than I do\u2014or at least the Joe I fell in love with.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben\u2019s brows crinkled. \u201cIs there something wrong with Joe?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben paused before he placed the papers he was holding down on his desk and took hold of Alice\u2019s shoulders. \u201cAlice, 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She flashed a small smile. \u201cI know. I guess I just needed to hear it. I’ll just be glad when this contest is over.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI’m sure you will. And so will Candy,\u201d he chuckled.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice took a brief pause. \u201cI 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben smiled. \u201cI 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\u2019t need any contest to prove what I already know to be true.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Touched by his words, Alice expressed, \u201cWell, thank you anyway.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben crossed his arms. \u201cWhy don’t you and Joe have supper with us tonight?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI would like that very much.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see you at supper then.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice left the Ponderosa while Ben got back to his work.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cSo, what about these other judges, has anybody gotten to them yet?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy let out an aggravated sigh. \u201cJoe, I’d like to go one day without hearing about that contest. I’ve already been hounded by nearly every mother in town\u2014I don’t need it from my best friend too.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe raised his hands up. \u201cAll right, I’m sorry.\u201d He wrapped his hand around his beer mug when he leaned towards Candy. \u201cCan you at least give me some names?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy rolled his eyes. \u201cJoe…\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe backed off. \u201cAlright, alright.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy informed him, \u201cYou should see the fellas they got to be the other two judges.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe groaned, \u201cOh, couple of stiffs, huh?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJust 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, don’t let them get to ya,\u201d Joe encouraged. \u201cYou gotta be firm with them, tell them that you are not giving into them no matter what.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy took a sip of beer and nodded. \u201cYeah and uh\u2026that goes for you too, Joe.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I know, I know,\u201d Joe squeaked. \u201cBut just know that whatever you decide is what you really think about your goddaughter, that’s all.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

That prompted another eye roll from Candy when Abel Stanton walked into the saloon. He spotted Candy and strode up to him. \u201cAh, Mr. Canaday, just the man I wanted to see.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe barked, \u201cDon’t even try it, Abel.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel narrowed his eyes on Joe. \u201cI don’t see how this is any of your business, Joseph. I’m simply offering Mr. Canaday a little business proposition, that’s all.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe pointed his finger at him. \u201cWell, I can tell you right now, he’s not interested.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy shrugged, \u201cI might as well. I’ve heard just about everything else in this town.\u201d He turned towards Abel. \u201cAll right, let’s hear it.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel smiled before he inquired, \u201cBen Cartwright pays you quite well for working for him, doesn’t he?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy\u2019s gaze moved towards his beer mug. \u201cWell, it bought me this beer. Why?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, how would you like an even better position working for my father?\u201d Abel proposed. \u201cYou’d be earning twice as much as you would be for Mr. Cartwright.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy raised his eyebrows and tried stifling a smirk. \u201cYou’re offering me a job?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel held his gaze on him. \u201cOf course.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy scoffed, \u201cI’ve heard a lot of ridiculous things today from a lot of different people, but I’d say this one is just about the<\/em> most ridiculous one I\u2019ve heard all day. Nice try, but no thanks.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As Candy rose from his seat, Abel persuaded, \u201cI’m offering you the chance of a lifetime\u2014I could make you rich.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy turned to him with a half-smile. \u201cI’ve had a taste of that already and it just wasn’t for me, thanks.\u201d He directed his attention over to Joe. \u201cLet\u2019s get outta here.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After Candy went through the folding doors, Abel furrowed his brows at Joe. \u201cThis isn’t over.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe seethed as he shot up from his seat, \u201cOh, 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe’ll see about that, Cartwright.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe gave him a mock smile before he stomped through the folding doors.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel turned towards the bar when he heard a woman\u2019s voice. \u201cAbel<\/em>?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel turned and when he saw it was his wife, Eloise, he hurried her towards the folding doors. \u201cEloise, what are you doing here? This is no place for a woman.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI 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,\u201d she accused.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel answered as Joe entered the saloon, having forgotten his hat, \u201cThere’s nothing wrong with a little promotion.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you’re going too far. I’m pulling her out of the contest,\u201d Eloise insisted.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

A smirk appeared on Joe\u2019s lips having overheard.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel pleaded, \u201cDarling, please, it’s only for a couple more days. Think of how great it’s gonna be for us when she wins.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean for you, Abel. Don’t you?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel sighed and placed his hands on her shoulders. \u201cLook, I’m sorry, but I have to ensure that she wins. Don’t you understand?\u201d Joe’s smile faded when Abel questioned, \u201cWhat chance does she have without it?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Eloise stared at him in disbelief. \u201cAll right, Abel. If that’s how you really feel then I hope for her sake that she does win.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

She whipped around and stormed through the saloon doors.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cEloise…\u201d Abel slumped his shoulders when he turned and saw Joe with a scornful expression on his face. \u201cWhat are you looking at?\u201d he grumbled.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe scoffed. \u201cNothing Abel\u2014 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.\u201d Abel wasted no time in showing his annoyance when Joe questioned, \u201cYou really don’t think your daughter can win on her own, do you?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, we can’t all be successful and<\/em> beautiful,\u201d Abel griped.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel\u2019s words further angered Joe. \u201cShe’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?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel trembled, \u201cNow, don’t be ridiculous. Of course I think she’s beautiful.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe shook his head. \u201cNo, I don\u2019t 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\u2026 I’m sorry she has a father like you.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe pushed past Abel and through the saloon doors.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As Joe untethered Cochise from the post, Candy took notice of his sudden change in demeanor and questioned him about it.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s nothing,\u201d Joe huffed. \u201cLet\u2019s just get back to the ranch.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe mounted Cochise while Candy shrugged his shoulders and mounted his horse before they both rode off in the direction of the Ponderosa.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

Later that evening, Joe had wandered out onto the porch to get some fresh air. As he stared up at the evening sky, Abel\u2019s words began to penetrate his mind, making him do some reflecting of his own.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe exhaled a long breath. \u201cYeah, I just came out here to think I suppose. Something Abel said in town,\u201d he added softly.<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice\u2019s mouth formed an oval shape. \u201cOh. You let him get to you again, didn\u2019t you?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, but it\u2019s more than that.\u201d Joe shook his head with a scoff. \u201cI feel pretty selfish right now. Not only that, I feel like a lousy father.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice\u2019s brows creased. \u201cWhy’s that?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBecause 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?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice met Joe\u2019gaze, wondering how as a mother, she would explain that to her daughter herself. Joe interrupted Alice\u2019s thoughts with a story.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI remember there was a friend of Pa\u2019s 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\u2014and I want her to know that.\u201d That brought a smile to Alice\u2019s face when Joe added, \u201cThe thought of breaking her heart just tears me up inside. I can’t let that happen\u2014so I won’t.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you saying?\u201d she asked.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI’m saying that I’m gonna pull her out of the contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice touched his face and gave him a soft kiss on the cheek. \u201cNow that is the Joe Cartwright I know and love.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI’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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou don’t know how happy I am to hear you say that. I\u2019m proud of you.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe smiled as he wrapped his arm around her shoulder. \u201cThanks. I\u2019ll ride into town tomorrow. I’m sorry for how I acted these past few days.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Alice gave a faint smile. \u201cIt\u2019s alright.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I’ll return all the things I bought for her,\u201d he added.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo, it’s fine, she can keep them, but just promise me you won’t spoil her with anything else for a little while, okay?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe gave a soft chuckle. \u201cI promise. Come on, I want to take one last look at that beautiful baby girl of ours before we go to bed.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe pulled her shoulder towards him and they both stepped back inside the house.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

*****<\/span><\/p>\n

The next day, Joe revealed his decision to his pa at the Ponderosa. Ben was seated in his chair as he expressed his support.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I think you’re making the right decision, Joseph.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sat on the armrest of the settee as he nodded in agreement. \u201cYeah. Everytime I look at her now I know I made the right decision.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYou know I think if Hoss were here right now, he would be proud of you.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The thought brought a warm smile to Joe\u2019s face. \u201cI just hope that if Sara does ever find out about that contest, she would forgive me for it.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cShe would,\u201d Ben nodded. \u201cBecause she would know just how much her father cares for her.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe lowered his gaze. \u201cI just wish Abel could see it.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, maybe he will. You certainly gave him something to think about.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI really hope he does, Pa\u2014for his daughter’s sake.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

All of a sudden, Candy rushed through the door and quickly closed it shut behind him.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cPhew<\/em>. I think I finally lost them.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe rose from the armrest of the settee as he stared at a disheveled-looking Candy. \u201cWhat the heck happened to you?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy held his hand out as he complained, \u201cI don’t understand how one contest about babies\u2014 babies! Can turn the whole town on its head? And these\u2014these women are….animals<\/em>!\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben crinkled his eyebrows. \u201cWhat happened to your eye?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy touched a purple spot underneath his eye. \u201cOh, that was uh\u2026just a little misunderstanding with one of the husbands.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u2019s shoulder. \u201cHey, I got some good news for you.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cGood, because I could use it.\u201d Candy straightened his crooked blue neckerchief.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI’m pulling Sara out of the contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy\u2019s head perked up as his eyes met Joe\u2019s. \u201cYou are?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, she\u2019s out of the competition.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy breathed a sigh of relief and placed his hand on his shoulder. \u201cThanks, Joe. You don’t know what this means.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe patted his shoulder. \u201cIt\u2019s 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy gave a small smile. \u201cAlready forgotten about.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, but can you do me one favor?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cDon’t vote for Abel’s kid.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI don’t want to, but I gotta be honest in this contest.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sighed. \u201cYeah, I know. On second thought it might be better if you do, for his little girl’s sake.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy rubbed the back of his neck. \u201cI 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe gave a soft boyish giggle when there was a knock at the door.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Chapter Five\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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. \u201cThere he is,\u201d Joe groaned.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel grinned from ear to ear making Joe shake his head in disgust. \u201cIf only I could get my hands on him, I\u2019d…\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cJoe. You promised you\u2019d behave yourself,\u201d Alice reminded him. \u201cWe\u2019re here for Candy, remember?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe sighed. \u201cI know, I know. Let’s get this over with.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He placed his hand over Alice\u2019s back and they stepped further into the room.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When Abel caught sight of Joe, he couldn\u2019t 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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I’m surprised to see you here at the contest, Joe.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI’m just here to support my friend, that’s all,\u201d Joe told him in a civil tone.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI’m sorry the contest didn’t work out for you, Joe. I really am.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe didn’t buy his sympathy. \u201cYeah.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll see you up there when the judges announce the winner,\u201d Abel stated with confidence.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I just hope for her sake your daughter does win, Abel.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel\u2019s smile faltered a bit before he rejoined his wife and daughter.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Meanwhile, Candy pulled back a red curtain, sneaking a peek at the crowd. He was dressed in a gray suit which he hadn\u2019t worn since Joe\u2019s wedding to Alice. He was never interested in what Hoss would refer to as getting \u201cduded up\u201d for fancy dinner parties. He preferred his casual work clothes, but he was willing to make an exception for that particular occasion.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The truth was it didn\u2019t 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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie stopped pacing and shot an irritated glance at Stuart. \u201cOh, would you please stop that imprudent tapping!\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Stuart stopped tapping and squeaked, \u201cI’m nervous!\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie shifted his gaze over to Candy. \u201cHow’s it look out there?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy took another peek behind the curtain.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cIt looks like they got the whole town out there.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie and Stuart darted over to the curtain and took a peek when the music stopped playing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI think they’re about ready now,\u201d Candy indicated.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh good, let me know how it turns out.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Stuart tried to make a break for it when Candy grabbed him by the shoulder and pulled him back.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After the mothers placed their babies inside of the baskets, Bert introduced the judges and cued the music.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy stepped out first while Stuart and Charlie huddled close behind him. Bert advised, \u201cAll right ladies, step back so the judges can get a good look.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After the mothers stepped away from their babies, Candy and the other judges moved towards the baskets.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u2019s lips as he moved along to the next baby.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

A little while later, while the crowd chatted and mingled about, Candy, Charlie, and Stuart were still deciding on a winner.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe we should take just one more look.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe already went out there twice, you wanna look again?\u201d Candy questioned impatiently.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Stuart sat back down when Candy informed them, \u201cI made my decision. And we’re all in agreement, right?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Charlie nodded. \u201cRight.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy glanced over at Stuart who hung his head down. Charlie swung his elbow into Stuart\u2019s side whose head snapped up and yelped. \u201cRight,\u201d he stuttered.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy sighed. \u201cAll right. Let\u2019s go.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Stuart got up from the table along with Charlie and they followed Candy through the red curtain.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

When Bert saw them emerge from the red curtain, he signaled to the band.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, have you gentlemen come to a decision?\u201d he asked.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy answered, \u201cWe have. We think the most beautiful baby in Virginia City is….Susie Stanton.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Eloise smiled along with Abel who excitedly jumped up on stage past Eloise while the crowd gave a scattered applause.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel snatched the trophy out of Bert\u2019s hands. \u201cWell, this is quite a surprise,\u201d he chuckled. \u201cAnd 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.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The mothers ignored Abel\u2019s speech and gathered their babies inside of the baskets. While on stage, Bert interrupted Abel.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAhem. <\/em>Well, that’s all we have time for. Congratulations to your little one, Mr. Stanton. Good day.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel stepped down off of the stage and came up to Eloise, proudly holding the trophy up for her to see. \u201cWell, we won.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cYes, and I hope it was worth it, Abel.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After Eloise went to get their daughter, Abel spotted Joe and couldn\u2019t resist the urge to gloat.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it looks like I won, Joe.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe tried to keep a civil tongue. \u201cYeah, Abel, your kid won, fair and square. Congratulations.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cAnd to show there are no hard feelings, why don’t we call off the bet we made, hm?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe\u2019s tone held a bit of sarcasm. \u201cWell, that’s very big of you, Abel. Thanks.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel spotted Candy and hurried over to him.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cOh, Mr. Canaday!\u201d Candy turned around as Abel approached him. He took some money out of his wallet and handed it over to Candy. \u201cSince you held your end of the bargain, here’s double the prize money for you.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy looked down at the money and scoffed with a half-smile. \u201cI’m afraid I can’t accept that.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel crinkled his brows. \u201cWhy not?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cBecause believe it or not, Abel, we voted based on a little thing called honesty. You ought to try it sometime.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Abel\u2019s smile morphed into a frown. As Candy went over to Ben and Jamie, Joe approached Abel.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cI hope you enjoy that trophy, Abel\u2014considering it seems to be the only thing you care about.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

After Joe left Abel to continue celebrating his victory alone, Joe joined Candy, Jamie, Alice, and his pa.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben stated to Candy, \u201cWell, I’m sure you’re happy that’s over with, hm?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy let out a quick breath. \u201cOh, yeah.\u201d He lowered his gaze on little Sara in Alice\u2019s arms. \u201cI just hope my little goddaughter here doesn’t have any hard feelings towards me.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

He brushed his hand over her curls as Alice giggled, \u201cNot at all.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Joe patted Candy on the shoulder. \u201cWhy don’t you have supper at our place tonight?\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy flashed a smile. \u201cI’d be glad to.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben interjected, \u201cNo, you will not, because you both are having supper at the Ponderosa tonight.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Candy and Joe exchanged glances when Joe shrugged, \u201cWe can’t exactly say no, we work for him.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Ben chuckled. \u201cLet’s go home.\u201d\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Cartwrights along with Candy left the Palace Hotel and had supper together as a family that evening.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The End<\/span><\/p>\n

Author\u2019s notes: The character of Maggie Dowling was featured in the season 8 episode, The Bridegroom.\u00a0<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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.
\nRating: G
\nWord Count: 10,775<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":12509,"featured_media":69928,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_jetpack_newsletter_access":"","_jetpack_dont_email_post_to_subs":false,"_jetpack_newsletter_tier_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paywalled_content":false,"_jetpack_feature_clip_id":0,"_jetpack_memberships_contains_paid_content":false,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":true,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2},"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"_members_access_role":[],"_members_access_error":""},"categories":[7,4,1007],"tags":[1311,1594],"class_list":["post-69884","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-a-u","category-humor","category-joe-cartwright","tag-forever","tag-rock-a-bye-hoss","wpcat-7-id","wpcat-4-id","wpcat-1007-id"],"jetpack_publicize_connections":[],"jetpack_likes_enabled":true,"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"jetpack_featured_media_url":"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/09\/IMG_0919.jpeg?fit=1170%2C857&ssl=1","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/69884","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/12509"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=69884"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/69884\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/69928"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=69884"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=69884"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/bonanzabrand.info\/library\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=69884"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}