“You scared me to death! I had no idea you were inside.”

Alex smiled. “I couldn’t help myself—you were fun to watch.” He squeezed her hand and led her to his car. “Now, let’s meet Peter for lunch.”

Jorden noted a semi-circular drive in front of the house. The outside entrance was impressive, with sidelights on either side of the front door. As he drove away, Jorden turned to get a better look. The main portion of the house had a recent coat of white paint with contrasting green shutters—a dramatic effect.

“What a beautiful home. I could just see the outline last night, but in the bright sunlight it’s outstanding. I can’t imagine growing up in a house like this.”

“It is a great place, but it doesn’t mean growing up here was beautiful.”

“What do you mean?” she asked, eyeing him.

“My father was always away on business. Being an investment banker, he spent many weeks in New York City—sometimes Boston. We saw him on weekends, holidays, and vacations. Being the youngest, Dad never seemed to have time for me.”

“What about your mother? It must have been hard on a marriage,” Jorden blurted out. “I’m sorry . . . I’m out of line.”

“You’re right. It’s true. It was hard on Mother. She raised us mostly by herself. He still gets home on weekends and they’re together, so I guess it’s a good sign. I hoped he would be here this weekend. I’m disappointed, but I’m not surprised.” Alex grimaced. “I never want to be like him.”

“I’m sorry, too. I wanted to meet him.” Jorden wondered what Alex’s life had been like. “Tell me about Peter.”

Alex smiled. “I’ve known him forever. We were inseparable growing up—first grade through high school. Now he’s a second year law student.”

“Lucky for him he didn’t get drafted.”

“Oh he did, but he was classified 4F—he has terrible eyesight. I wouldn’t mention it at lunch. Peter’s sensitive about it, especially with me going to Nam.”

“I won’t say a word,” Jorden replied.

“There’s his old Ford Fairlane. I keep telling him to get rid of it. The old jalopy will break down and leave him stranded one of these days.”

Jorden could see Rodono’s was an Italian restaurant, but it didn’t look as nice as Amore’s. Still, it was cozy. Peter Hampton sat in the back corner. He stood up and waved when he saw Alex.

“There’s Peter.”

Jorden’s first impression of Peter was surprising. He was much shorter and heavier than Alex. A beer gut hung over his belt, mousy brown hair straggled below his ears, and thick, dark glasses dominated his face. He seemed to brighten as she and Alex approached the table. After an awkward introduction, Jorden checked out the menu.