“I’m teasing. Let’s change the subject. What are your plans for Easter weekend?” Matt asked.

“Nothing in particular. I’ll probably go over to Madison and Luke’s for dinner. Aren’t you going to see your aunt and uncle?”

“No. I drove down to see them the weekend you went to Darby’s home, but . . . I have a better idea. How’s the beach sound? I’m envious of your trip to the Gulf. What do you think about going to Panama City, Florida? It’s also on the Gulf of Mexico on the Florida Panhandle. We could leave early Saturday morning and return Sunday evening.”

“How can I possibly go? Darby and Emma Lynn would have a field day with such an excursion. They’ll never stop teasing me. Right now they already give me grief all the time. Are you crazy?” Jorden watched Matt’s grin expand.

“So? They won’t be here. I’ve heard you say they’re both going home for Easter. They’ll leave Friday afternoon. Don’t tell them your plans. If they ask, tell them you’re going to Madison’s.”

Warning alarms pounded in her head. This was the last thing she should do. Alex would never forgive her if he found out. In fact, he’d hate her.

“I can’t!”

“Why not? This escort won’t bite. We can walk the beaches, have a relaxed dinner, and enjoy time together. Sounds like fun to me—an innocent escape.”

Jorden fidgeted in her chair. She couldn’t think of a response. It didn’t sound innocent to her.

“Besides—we don’t have much time left.” His eyes never left hers.

He hit a nerve. They didn’t have much time. Jorden couldn’t ignore his last bit of logic. What could it hurt? Giving in, Jorden, blurted out, “Okay . . . but don’t let me regret this!”

“Never. I promise!”

Jorden watched his soft brown eyes, and she knew they didn’t lie. Still, she carefully avoided mentioning the trip to Darby, Emma Lynn, and especially Madison. None of them would understand. She and Matt didn’t have much longer, she kept telling herself, but her decision still haunted her.

Jorden was semi-truthful with her roommates. Before they left late Friday afternoon, she told them she and Matt were going to a movie.

“Have a good Easter. Try to remember my wedding dress,” Jorden teased.

“Mama would never let me forget.” Darby paused. “You know, you should get your priorities straight. Really, who do you think the dress is right for? Open your eyes and focus. Hear me?”