Jorden ducked and continued. “I went down to the school counselor’s office during sixth period—which was my planning time. Edna Brown had her door open.” Jorden twirled the maple leaf several more times before she let it float to the ground. “Nora told Mrs. Brown she wanted to be transferred to another math teacher. But what Nora really needed was someone to talk with about her problems at home, especially with Sam, her step-father. Edna did her best to settle her down and assured me she would be back in class on Monday.”

“Was she?” Matt asked.

“She was. I never had any more problems with Nora. Actually, she became a joy to have in class. Did you hear what Eloise said today about a restraining order against her husband?”

“I heard. Sam, at times, has made her life feel like a nightmare,” Matt replied.

Jorden kicked at the leaves, angry Nora had to deal with a man like Sam. “At least now I have an inkling of Nora’s problems.”

“I’m just glad Major Hawkins could get Eloise work in our office.”

“Can you keep me updated on Nora? I’d like to know what happens to her.”

“Of course I can.” They walked in silence until they reached a clearing. Jorden noticed Matt eyeing the tennis courts off in the distance.

“Do you play?” Matt asked, pointing toward the courts.

“A little. Tennis was my last P.E. class at the university. I got an A, but still it doesn’t say much.”

Matt’s eyes widened. “These look like clay courts. They’re great. The clay helps slow the ball down for better control.”

“I’ve never played on clay.” Jorden squinted to get a closer look.

“Want to try? What about Wednesday afternoon around five thirty? Look, they even have bleachers. I bet I’ll have to get a reservation.”

“I’m not the best,” Jorden said.

“I’m sure you’re better than you think,” Matt assured her.

“I doubt it.”

“Well, I’ll translate your answer into a yes.” Matt smiled as he bent over and picked up an oak leaf. “This one looks flawless,” he said as he handed it to Jorden.

She rolled the leaf around in her fingers. “I think you twisted my words. I didn’t say I would go this Wednesday? Did I?”

Matt winked. “I’ll pick you up at five fifteen.”

“You’re awful, but okay.” Jorden had to admit she was looking forward to playing again. “Here, take your leaf back.”

“No. It’s for you. Save it for posterity. I guess I’d better take you home and be a good escort.”

“I guess you’d better,” Jorden replied with a smile.

Chapter 5: October 1969

Chapter 5

October 1969