She might be expecting this, Lyle thought, suppressing a grin.

“I’d always intended for Evan to take over the management of the orchard, of course, but something had to be done, what with his leavin’ the Amish life behind. So if you’re interested”—he looked at Sol and then Ellie—“I’d like to train Sol to become manager in two to three years, in partnership with you, Ellie.”

Ellie looked at Sol, whose jaw had dropped. “Are ya sure, Dat?” she asked, a little breathless and eyes wide with delight.

“Wow,” Sol said. “I thought after Evan left, maybe Jonah would run things once you’re retired.”

“Well, Jonah doesn’t want to be saddled with the day-to-day responsibilities of the orchard. And he and Priscilla like where they’re living, but I want someone to live on-site. Ellie’s always shown the greatest interest in the orchard of any of our children. I intend to give ya the opportunity to buy the house as well . . . make your home here. Elisabeth and I will move into a new, larger Dawdi Haus as soon as we can get it built after your wedding.”

Tears welled in Ellie’s eyes. “Ach, Dat, I don’t know what to say.”

Bursting with happiness at the joy this news had brought to his younger daughter’s heart, Lyle looked to Sol for their answer.

“We would be honored,” Sol replied. “And Ellie and I will be ever grateful to ya.”

Lyle nodded, mighty pleased at their response—and relieved. “So Ellie’ll partner with ya where she can, Sol, considering she’ll have more household duties to attend to after Elisabeth and I move out of the main house. And eventually, Lord willin’, you’ll have a family, too.”

“Denki for entrusting the orchard to us, Dat,” Ellie said, now more sober. She frowned suddenly. “I’m wonderin’, has Evan been told?”

“Not officially. But after some of the things he told me before leavin’ for the army, I’m sure he suspects it.”

Ellie nodded, listening.

“Of course, this is all a private family matter,” Lyle added.

“We understand,” Ellie said, glancing at Sol.

“I’ll put my mind to learnin’ quickly,” Sol said, “and I’ll do everything I can to make the transition a smooth one when you’re ready to hang up your hat.”

“It’s a privilege to have ya onboard—and as a son-in-law come November.” Lyle reached over to shake Sol’s hand.

As for Ellie, she was clearly trying not to let out a whoop and a holler.

She’s earned it, Lyle thought as Ellie and Sol left his office together, his daughter smiling up at her future husband.

———

On the walk across the backyard, Ellie squeezed Sol’s hand. “Can ya believe it?”

“You’ll never have to leave the orchard,” Sol said with a grin.