"Couple of cows and I'd be right at home," Arlen said.
"I've been thinking of getting a little John Deere."
"Well—they can come in handy."
"I guess." Oliver's thoughts drifted to Jacky. She appeared, on cue, walking up the drive. He met her with a hug. "Jacky! You look great." She held him tightly and then stepped back, knuckling the top of his head.
"How's married life?"
"Fine," he said. She looked at him closely.
"I'm thinking of trying it myself," she said. "I don't know."
"Uh, Jacky, this is my buddy, Arlen."
"How do you do," Arlen said, extending his hand.
"A pleasure to meet you," Jacky said. "What's that in your glass?"
Arlen held his glass up for inspection. Jacky bent forward and sniffed.
"Sarsaparilla!"