“She’s at Cornell, is she?”
“Yes, she’s quite an expert. They invited her to come from Italy to teach about ancient varieties: apples, pears, almonds, figs …”
“There is a man from the Extension office who comes around for our dairy,” said Mrs. Weaver.
“Well, I have a proposition for you. I would like to work with Rachel again for a few hours, and in exchange, I’ll arrange for you to speak with Professor Livia.”
“Can you do that?”
“Do you have a phone number? You do use a phone, don’t you?”
“Ya, I do.” She pulled out an older model smartphone from her apron pocket.
“Hannah Weaver,” she dictated, followed by her phone number. Then she turned to Rachel.
“Can you keep up with chores and come here the same?”
“Of course, Mamm,” said Rachel. “I’m seventeen years old!”
“That you are,” he
