Jorden enjoyed having Alex drive. She became mesmerized as she watched a young mother and her baby. The woman pushed her stroller along the sidewalk with the top up, shielding the baby from the sun. Jorden’s imagination took over. One day she could see herself doing the same. If only the war was over, and Alex wasn’t leaving for Vietnam tomorrow morning.

“Where are you? You look miles away.”

“Daydreaming.”

“Hope I’m there with you.”

“Always!”

By the time they reached Richland, it was almost four. Outdoor activity increased. People were out, traffic was heavier, and the town was waking up. Jorden saw a group of boys playing baseball and small children on swings in a nearby park.

“It’s getting late; we should go back.” Alex drove back through Brooklyn and Renfroe taking in the scenery before reaching Cussetta and finally heading north to Columbus. That night Jorden clung to Alex. She knew such a moment would not come again for a long time. The nagging worry of something happening to Alex was always with her.

Morning came. With sleep still in her eyes, Alex gathered his things and packed them into his duffle bag. Jorden dressed, applying no make-up. Tears slid down her cheeks as he drove. After pulling into the airport parking area, he held her a long time. Lifting her chin, he spoke softly. “I have to go.”

“I hate it. I hate the war!”

“I know.” Alex brushed his lips against hers. “I love you. I’ll write soon,” he whispered. “Don’t cry. It won’t be long.” She knew it wasn’t true. The flight he was taking would ultimately lead to Vietnam and his twelve month tour of duty.

Chapter 44: January 16, 1970

Chapter 44

January 16, 1970

Jorden arrived at the Atlanta airport at six in the morning. The return flight to Columbus was scheduled for eight fifteen. Alex seemed ages away—now letters would have to suffice. Almost twelve hours separated them. Morning for Jorden in Georgia meant evening for Alex in Vietnam.

After finally touching down in Columbus, Jorden took a cab back to her apartment. She had the weekend to get back into her daily routine. Routine made her think of Matt. Tennis on Wednesday and a movie Saturday night had been their routine. “But, no more!” she scolded herself. How could she even think about Matt?

Emma Lynn’s blue Chevrolet sputtered into her parking spot around midafternoon. She looked up and waved wildly when she spotted Jorden at the window. Her roommate grabbed her second graders’ papers before hurrying up the stairs.

“How was Hawaii? Tell me all.” Darby soon joined them.

“You two are wearing me out. Let’s make dinner, and I’ll tell you more.”

“It’s Friday night—no cooking!” Kyle and I will get hotdogs at the basketball game. Why don’t you join us? Darby and Chip are coming. I bet Matt will also be there.”