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“I’m glad.”

Fox leaned forward and sniffed the screen, making them both smile. Then he tilted his head, gave a happy bark, and loped away.

Jolie stood. “And that’s Fox. He never stays too long, but he’s such a happy dog. You should see him hug Thea and Fox. I’ve never seen anything like it in my life.”

Amber sighed. “You’re not fighting fair, Jolie.”

“I’m the youngest. I’ve never been able to fight fair.”

Amber’s eyes dimmed. “You’ve always been the brightest of us all, Jolie. You sparkle and shine and bring joy to everyone in your life.”

Jolie’s heart nearly burst. “Wow. Thank you.”

Amber smiled the soft smile Jolie loved. Her sister was the quietest of them all, but she probably had the biggest heart.

Jolie smiled. “You’ve always been the best big sister I could wish for. In reward, I’m going to introduce you to our ducks.”

“Ducks? You got ducks?”

“Yesterday. Last night, actually. I’m nervous about how they survived the night in the coop. And I don’t want to see them race away when I open it. I’m hoping they’ll like the clearing by the pond and stay.”

Actually, she’d been hoping Ford would be with her, but she’d been too busy kissing him to make plans for this morning.

“Do you have a fence to contain them?”

Jolie shrugged as she walked through the orchard. “No. I helped Ford finish the coop yesterday, but the call to pick up the ducks came in and I forgot all about the need for a fence. The farmer said they should be fine without one. They’re used to free ranging at his place, but this is all new to them.”

Amber nodded. “And to you. I’m sure the farmer’s right and they’re fine, but now I need to see them to be sure. How are you going to get them to the snails and back? You said the snails are mostly nocturnal?”

Jolie nodded. “Some snails are crepuscular, but I haven’t spent any time looking for the ones who live here yet. It would be easier if they came out earlier than full dark, but we’ll have to wait and see.”

She arrived at the pond’s clearing and turned the camera around so Amber could see. “Here we are.”

Amber laughed. “I love the coop.”

“Ford called it the Quack Mobile and I think that name’s going to stick.” They hadn’t painted it yet, but that was a project for another day.

“It’s perfect.”

Jolie took a deep breath. “Okay. Wish me luck. I hope they’re all okay and that they don’t take off.”

“Good luck. Now, release the quack-ens.”

She grinned at her sister. “Ford is going to love that phrase.” Then, before she could second guess herself, Jolie opened the door and stepped back. She was glad she’d been quick because the first duck was outside instantly, quacking and fluffing her feathers. The other five immediately followed.

“They’re so cute. And they seem to have survived the night just fine.”

Jolie nodded, and they both watched as the birds took in their new surroundings. The lead duck fluffed her feathers again, took a few steps, and pecked at the ground, looking for food. The others followed her lead.

“You did it, Jolie. Your ducks look happy.”

“They really do. I’m so relieved.” They could still take off on her, but at least things were starting off well.

The drizzle didn’t bother the birds at all as they moved easily around the clearing.

“I love how much fun you’re having, Jolie.”

She switched the camera back to her face. “You can have this much fun, too. When you get here, it’s going to be even better.”