“You don’t have say to anything. He won’t have to know.”

“Trust is important. I have to say something.” Jorden’s hand brushed against a tree trunk.

“You’re right. Without trust—what do you have? Since Luke and I have known each other so long, I hope we can always trust each other.”

“You already do. You made a formal commitment. I wish Alex and I had. If we were married, I wouldn’t be playing tennis with Matt.”

“Who’s Matt?” Madison caught up with Jorden and grabbed her arm.

“No one.” Jorden broke loose from her grip.

“Don’t hold out on me.” Madison increased her stride. “Slow down, will ya!”

“Sorry,” Jorden replied as she stopped.

This time Madison took Jorden’s arm and led her to a nearby bench. “Here. Sit down and tell me what’s going on.”

“Nothing really. Darby’s boyfriend set me up for a double date with them. He was up-front with Matt and told him I was getting married next summer so no strings attached. I have to admit, Matt is nice. He then asked me to play tennis . . . which we did. But, no strings attached.”

“There’s nothing wrong with playing tennis. Remember, you’re not married. What’s this Matt like?”

“Madison, you’re terrible. Listen to you. Matt’s a good guy. I like his company. I’ve even reminded him I was getting married next summer. It suits him fine, so he poses no threat to Alex.” Jorden stood up, getting impatient.

“Calm down. I didn’t mean to upset you. Just tell me, have you written to Alex about him?”

“No. There is nothing to it—so I’m not going to mention it.”

“Smart. I think it’s good for you to get out. Take advantage of it while you’re still single. It will make the time go by faster. Before you know it Alex will be back, and you two will be married.”

Chapter 8: November 1969

Chapter 8

November 1969

Darby and Emma Lynn were out on dates when Jorden returned from dinner at Madison’s home. Glorious peace prevailed. It was Friday night, and the apartment belonged to Jorden for the next few hours. Twirling around, she threw her arms up, jubilant to be alone. Thirsty, she poured a tall glass of iced tea with a wedge of lemon. Next, she picked an album by “The 5th Dimension” and tapped her toes to the rhythm. She had to admit she was excited about going to a movie Saturday night. She hadn’t told Madison about the date—she didn’t want to know her reaction.