After midday, they moved to livestock and eggs. The hen-house was busy with low clucks and the scuff of straw. Therese lifted each nest lid and counted. The tally matched the board except for one row with no marks.
"Why is this row blank?" she asked.
The boy in charge flushed. "I forgot to chalk in the morning."
"Count now," Kim said. "Say it aloud."
They counted together. The boy chalked the number with care. Therese marked the crate for the market. "Do not skip the board again," she said. "It helps us plan feed and sales."
"I won't," he said.
They crossed to the goat pen. One nanny goat was limping, holding back on her front leg. Kim crouched to check.
"Stone in the hoof," he said. He lifted the hoof gently and worked the pebble free. The goat relaxed once the pressure was gone. Therese watched his hands. He moved with care and patience. He set the hoof down and rubbed the goat's shoulder until she stood steady.
"You are good with animals," Therese said.
