“I’ll be there in a few minutes. Stay put. Please.”

Shaken, Jorden hung up. She stood in front of the window and watched Matt cross the parking lot. Her heart raced when she heard the main door open and the doorbell ring.

Jorden looked through the peephole. There was Matt. She cracked the door.

“Are you going to let me in?”

“I should leave you right there. It’s what you deserve.”

Matt pressed the door and met no resistance, so he continued to push until the door opened.

Jorden stepped back.

Matt broke the silence. “How’ve you been?”

“Good.” Jorden stretched the truth. “And you?”

“I’ve wanted to see you.” Matt reached for her hand.

Jorden backed away, afraid to touch him. “You sure have a funny way of showing it—ignoring me and asking the blond to dance.”

“I knew you needed space—that’s why I’ve stayed away. I don’t know why I asked her to dance . . . I guess I wasn’t sure how you would respond to me. I almost didn’t come tonight, but I hoped to see you. I wish . . . wish we could enjoy what little time we have left?” Matt reached out again. This time Jorden didn’t back away, but a quiver ran through her at the touch of his hand. Next, she heard Darby and Chip’s voices on the stairs. Saved! Jorden didn’t trust her feelings.

“Good. I see you two connected,” Darby declared as she opened the door. “Jorden, I had no idea you had left.” Darby then looked from Jorden to Matt with a curious expression.

Jorden knew the look. Before Darby could say another word, Jorden steered Matt out the door. “Come on, I’ll walk you down to your car.”

Matt looked puzzled. “You’re walking me to my car?”

“Let’s at least walk around the apartment complex and get some exercise. Then you can walk me back.” Jorden knew she wasn’t making much sense.

Halfway around the complex, Matt stopped. “Would you like to go to church with me in the morning? I like the Episcopal Church in Columbus.”

Matt’s words caught her off guard. It dawned on her, she and Alex had never gone to a Catholic service. She hesitated—what harm could it be?

“I guess.”

“Good. I’ll pick you up at ten thirty. The church service begins at eleven.” Matt squeezed her hand. “Thank you. It’ll be nice to have your company rather than be alone.”

Jorden smiled. “It’s late, I’ll walk you back.” At the top of the stairs Matt kissed her cheek. “See you at ten thirty.”

Jorden watched him drive off. She wondered what she was getting herself into.

Chapter 45: February 1970

Chapter 45

February 1970