“Please, let’s not argue. We’re out to celebrate. You’re supposed to be happy for me, at least tonight!” Matt reached for Jorden’s hand. At the same moment, the radio announcer came on, “A new song is gaining popularity. What better night than this one for ‘Rainy Night In Georgia.’” They sat and listened to the compelling lyrics and melody.

“Come on. Let’s go dancing and join the others. They’ll wonder where we are. We don’t want to give them something more to gossip about. Do we?” Matt’s eyes crinkled.

Jorden couldn’t help but smile at his devilish grin. “Okay. Let’s go!”

The live band was in full swing by the time Jorden and Matt joined the others. The club was filled to capacity. A server appeared. Chip ordered another round of gin and tonics. He had already dropped off a bottle of gin at the bar along with his name.

“Where have y’all been? We’ve been here a half an hour. Get a flat tire?” Emma Lynn giggled.

“No way, we got stuck in traffic.” Actually, Matt had taken a wrong turn but, being a man, he wasn’t going to admit a mistake.

“What do you think of this place?” Chip shouted over the loud music.

Matt threw up his thumbs. Soon, their drinks appeared.

“Come on. We can’t miss this song.” The band started to play “Wild Thing.” The dancefloor filled up and the six of them danced and laughed through a couple rounds of drinks. Finally, a slow song began to play, “Crimson and Clover.” “I like this one.” Matt hummed the melody in Jorden’s ear. “After this, let’s go. I’ll settle with the guys tomorrow. What do you say?”

“Good. I’ve had too much to drink.”

They snuck out before anyone noticed. Rain continued to fall as they raced to the car. It was close to one when they reached Matt’s house on Monticello Drive.

“Where are we?” Jorden blinked.

“Thought we’d come to my place. Chip and Lyon probably won’t be back for at least another two hours. The three of us rented the house in September. You’ve never been here, have you?”

“No.” Jorden stared at the house and didn’t move. “It’s late. I thought you were taking me home.”

“I just thought we’d have time to ourselves here. Seems like we’re always being interrupted at your apartment—but I can take you home,” Matt replied, backing out of his driveway.

“Wait, you’re right. We never have time alone at my apartment, so let’s stay. Besides, I’d like to see your place.” Jorden smiled.

“You’re sure?”

“Definitely,” Jorden replied.