Page 101 of Harvest Moon (Riverbend 3)

He inspected the skin. “Never heard of it.”

“It’s relatively new. And unlike most modern varieties, which are derived from long breeding programs, it developed by accident. A chance seedling was found in a Red Delicious orchard—so that’s where it’s thought to have come from. The flavor is fairly bland, kind of like a pear. But it’s crisper than a Red Delicious.”

“Are they ripe yet?”

Laurel lifted the apple and gave a twist. “That’s what we’re going to find out.” She set it in her bag.

Sunny gave a happy bark.

Emma stopped chasing the dog in circles, wavered on her feet a moment, then plopped on her bottom in the grass.

Gavin and Laurel laughed.

“Are you dizzy, angel?” Laurel asked.

“Emma fall down!”

“Are you okay?”

“I fine.” She popped back to her feet.

Gavin’s phone vibrated and he checked the screen. “I missed a call from Wes.”

“Go ahead and call him back. I have to gather more samples.”

Gavin hit the Redial button.

Seconds later Wes answered. “Hey, did you see what went up for sale today?”

“No.”

“A repurposed house in Mulberry Hollow. It’s across the street and down the road from Avery’s clinic. It used to be a dentist’s office, but they’re moving into a different building.”

“The brick Craftsman next to the outfitters’ shop?”

“That’s the one.” Wes named the asking price. “I was thinking we should take a look. What do you think?”

“That’s a little more than we talked about. But it would be a great spot for the business. Maybe they’ll come down a bit.”

“That’s what I was thinking. Want me to call the Realtor and set up an appointment?”

“Sure. Also, I could really use your help at the work site. The painters are coming Saturday. And I need to mow the campground.”

“Okay, no problem.”

Gavin had really been negligent lately on the project. “Sorry I haven’t been involved as much as I’d like lately. I appreciate your picking up the slack.”

“That’s what partners are for. You’ve had a lot going on.”

“Congrats again on your engagement. I’m happy for you both.”

“Thanks. A lot going on in the family right now.”

“Good things, though.” Gavin watched as Laurel held Emma up and showed her the proper way to pick an apple. Emma took a bite, making Laurel laugh. “Once this hearing is over things should settle back down.”

“Hey, Avery’s calling. I’ll set up an appointment and text it to you.”

They said good-bye and Gavin disconnected the call.

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