Page 82

Maybe tomorrow. Tonight was all about Jolie.

When they neared the pond, Jolie swung their hands. “It’s so nice to know no one’s watching us from the other side of the pond.”

He agreed.

When the clearing came into view, Ford’s gaze took in the entire space quickly. The habit of scanning for threats had been honed during his army training and reinforced over the past few days.

Jolie let out a happy sound and pointed. “Daisy’s on the pond.”

Sure enough, the duck swam in the middle of the pond.

Jolie’s grin widened. “That’s such a good sign. I hope they’re going to be happy here.”

He hadn’t seen any of the ducks swimming before this. It hadn’t been on his radar either. He didn’t know much about the birds, but they seemed content with their surroundings. He’d bet they were thrilled with the improvements Jolie had made with the pond already.

He knew she had more plans, but her efforts had already yielded results. The area looked better, smelled better, and he hoped more wildlife would be returning soon.

Jolie leaned into him and smiled. “It’s working. It’s really working. We’re going to heal this place and turn it into a happy spot for us and for everything else that lives here.”

Which was a good segue. “Except the snails.”

He loved when her laugh brimmed with joy. He squeezed her hand. “I think tonight’s a good night to see how these ducks feel about a midnight snail snack. What do you think?”

She smiled. “That’s a great idea. Is that the adventure you talked about earlier?”

And how was he so damn lucky that watching ducks snack on snails was an adventure that lit up the woman he loved? “More like Adventure Part One.”

Her eyes sparkled. “Do tell.”

He laughed and kissed her forehead. “Not yet. No ruining the surprise.”

“Okay. Any idea how to fill the time before it’s dark enough for duck patrol?”

“I have a few.”

Turned out that kissing Jolie in the orchard was an excellent way to spend the time.

When it was dark enough, they whistled for Hemsworth, who’d been exploring the orchard. The dog sat at their feet, ears twitching, tongue lolling, waiting for a command.

Jolie ruffled his head. “We’re going to try something new tonight, Hemsworth. We’re going to take the ducks into the orchard where the snails are hurting the trees. Then we’re going to let them have their fun. After, we’ll bring them back to the Quack Mobile.”

Ford laughed. “He probably caught more of that than we expect.”

He and Jolie moved to the edge of the trees, far from the coop. He turned on a flashlight and held it down at their feet.

Jolie laughed. “Here goes nothing. Hemsworth. Cast.”

The dog’s ears perked up, and he bounced to his feet. He rounded up the ducks, including the one that had returned from the pond.

He drove the ducks toward the coop, but Jolie called his name. “Hemsworth. Here.”

Sure enough, the dog changed course for them, tail wagging like he’d been given a new treat. “He loves a challenge.”

Jolie rubbed his head. “Good boy, Hemsworth. You’re the smartest boy.”

Ford walked into the forest, shining the light on the ground to lead the way. Jolie grinned at him and bounced as they moved to an area further in. They didn’t want to go too far on the first attempt.

Jolie called out to the dog. “Hemsworth, that’ll do.”