The three judges stood on center stage, where music had played and magicians had performed tricks. But tonight’s announcement of the winning business was the final act, the highlight of the fair.
The handsome younger man stood behind the podium, one of the other judges on each side. “We had a difficult time choosing the winning business. Every entry shows the ingenuity and diversity of life in our beautiful state. But we can only award one company fifty dollars.”
He paused while an aide brought in a gigantic check, with the amount of fifty dollars written on it. “Before we announce the final winner, we want to recognize several businesses that came close to winning. You will each receive a blue ribbon and our very best wishes for a successful future.”
“Maple Notch Dairy.” A pair of men who could have been twins came forward to receive the ribbon.
“Beecher Motorcars.” The salesman who had sought to sell them the car yesterday took the blue ribbon.
“And, finally, a company that needs no introduction for everyone who was here for the baking competition, Oscar Farms, which includes both Edith’s Good Eating and Grace Meadow Honey.”
Grant and Edie stepped forward, managing to smile in spite of deep disappointment. And a worry that Grant might never marry her now.
Grant whispered to the judge, who said, “Mr. Oscar would like to say a few words.”
“Yesterday a reporter asked Miss Grace if she expected to take home any other trophies. We are blessed to be recognized with this blue ribbon. But the sweetest, best trophy I could hope for can’t be found in a bank or in a jar of honey. It’s the heart of the most wonderful woman I know, Edith Mae Grace. Edie, will you do me the honor of marrying me?”
She looked up at him, her right hand crumpling the ribbon. “All you had to do was ask.”
He lifted the hand holding on to the ribbon up high in the air, and the audience broke into applause.