Page 46

"You've been accepted."

"I wasn't aware there was an application process."

"Extremely selective."

I scratch behind his ears. A man crosses the yard toward us, and I recognize Jack immediately. He reaches Emma first, leaning down to kiss her cheek before his attention shifts to me.

"Good morning, Madison. Welcome to the farm."

"Morning, Jack." I glance around. "I'm glad to be here. This place is incredible."

His smile carries a touch of pride.

"We've come a long way."

Ranger nudges my hand again.

"Careful," Jack says. "Compliment him once and you'll never get rid of him."

Ranger promptly sits on my foot. I look down.

"Apparently."

Jack laughs.

"Noah coming by later?"

"Maybe after school. Mom said she'd bring him if he finishes his homework."

"Then Ranger's day is made."

Something about the casual way he says it catches me. Noah belongs here. Not in the formal sense. But enough that people expect him. Miss him when he isn't around. Know what makes him happy. Another piece of his life I hadn't understood.

Emma glances at her watch.

"I have three patients and only one of them is likely to cooperate."

"Which one?" Jack asks.

"Atlas."

Jack gives her a look.

"You're optimistic."

"I'm choosing positivity."

"That doesn't sound like you."

Emma nudges him with her elbow. Jack grins, then looks at me again.

"Glad you're here, Madison."

"Thanks."

He heads toward the far barn, Ranger falling easily into step beside him. Emma bumps my arm lightly.

"Ready?"