“I see you haven’t lost your sense of humor,” Alex replied.

“Never.” Madison laughed. “Hope you brought a good appetite. Dinner’s on us tonight.”

“No. It’s our turn,” Jorden protested. “You had us over the other night. Besides, I was the one who suggested we get together.”

“I second it—I’m buying,” Alex insisted as he held a chair for Jorden to sit down. The comfortable atmosphere of Amore’s added to the ease of conversation—especially since their previous waiter, John, wasn’t there.

Luke looked across the table at Alex. “How does it feel to be out of uniform?”

“Great!”

“Have you gotten used to civilian clothes yet?” Luke asked.

“I don’t miss those fatigues at all, but I have to admit it felt odd being on base dressed as a civilian. Most of all I’m just glad to be back in the States with my best girl.” Alex nudged Jorden in a loving way. Madison seemed delighted to see Jorden and Alex looking happy.

The dinner ended with a scrumptious dessert of cheesecake and fresh strawberries. “Have we chosen a movie?” Madison asked, finishing her last bite.

“I know what I’d like to see,” Luke said before anyone could say a word, “A Man Called Horse, with Richard Harris. I read an excellent review of it. There are a series of scenes which take place on the Rosebud Indian Reservation in South Dakota. Actually, some of the Lakota Sioux tribe members act in the movie. It’s set in the early 1800s. What do you think?”

“Sounds good. I’m up for it.” Alex nodded.

“I’ve never heard of the movie, but I like Richard Harris. I vote for it,” Jorden added.

“A consensus. Let’s go.” Madison stood up.

Jorden became immersed in the storyline. At the end, the young Indian woman died and the Englishman departed with a broken heart. Discreetly, Jorden brushed tears aside. The movie brought Matt and his Native American heritage to life. Of all the movies currently playing, this was one she should have seen with Matt—and not Alex. “You can’t think about Matt,” she scolded herself. “He’s out of your life.”

“The movie was excellent, but sad,” Madison commented as they walked out.

Luke began to talk about the time period, the South Dakota location, and the Rosebud Reservation. He went on and on, full of details.

“Come on, Luke. It’s late. We need to let Jorden and Alex go.”

Luke scowled. “I was just getting started.”

“I know. That’s the point.” Madison looked at Jorden, sensing something wasn’t right.

Luke didn’t seem to notice. “This was fun. Are you two free for bowling tomorrow night? We go most Sundays.”

“Sure we are.” Alex answered for both of them.

“Meet you at seven. It’s Kempton’s Bowling Lanes. Jorden, you know where it’s located, don’t you?”