Miller spat out the straw and gestured toward the muddy, squealing crowd. "Well now, Leo, that depends on what kind of life you’re looking to manage. You see those little ones there? The weaners? You can take one of those home for about $50 to $150. They’re cheap to start, but they’ll eat you out of house and home before they’re done growing."
Old Man Miller leaned against the wooden gate of the weaning pen, a piece of straw tucked into the corner of his mouth. He watched the boy watch the pigs.
Miller smiled, unlatching the gate. "Smart move, kid. A cheap pig with expensive care beats an expensive pig with no dinner every time."
"How much to buy a pig, Mr. Miller?" Leo asked, his voice steady despite the flutter in his chest.
"What about a big one?" Leo asked, pointing to a massive, stoic sow in the far field.
Leo opened his wallet. He had exactly two hundred and forty dollars. It was enough for a feeder, but he’d have nothing left for the high-quality grain Miller recommended.
