“Come on. We need to get going. It’s at least four hours to reach your home,” Nate called back to Darby in her bedroom.

“I’m coming. Just give me a few more minutes. Mama and Daddy know we’ll probably be late. Don’t worry!”

Nate turned to Jorden. “Women!”

“Hey—watch your tongue,” Jorden warned him.

“No. Not you. You know I meant Darby. She’s always late.”

“I heard you!” Darby dragged herself into the front room with three bags, one over her shoulder and the other two in her hands.

“Where are you going?” Nate’s jaw dropped.

“What do you mean? Home, of course!” Darby put the two bags down.

“Are you moving out? Our wedding’s a month away.”

“Men! Come on, Nate. Give me a hand, I need all of them!”

“If you say so,” Nate replied.

“See you late Sunday,” Darby said as she waved from the door. Jorden watched them from the window while they struggled to get the suitcases into the car. Nate planted a kiss on Darby’s cheek before he opened the door for her. Their happiness made Jorden smile.

The next day Jorden carried a vase of vibrant pink tulips to Madison’s home. Her mother answered the door. “How sweet, let me take those delightful flowers.”

“Hey there, Jorden. I was about to call you. This gorgeous turkey is ready to eat. Luke, take those flowers. Mama, come help me with this,” Madison called out orders.

“I’ve got two hands; let me get my coat off and help.”

The smell of roasted turkey and the trimmings engulfed the apartment. Jorden hadn’t eaten since last night and the aromas made her hungry. After finishing their turkey feast, they had apple pie with whipped cream and coffee.

“What a great dinner. I don’t have to eat for a week.” Jorden stood next to the door, patting her waistband.

“Stop by for leftovers this weekend. We have plenty,” Madison offered as she waved goodbye.

Jorden had a hard time finding a parking space at her apartment complex. It was a day to celebrate for the soldiers, their families, and friends. Her hand automatically reached for her key to check the mail, but of course there was none today. She thought she heard a phone ringing and soon realized it was coming from her apartment.

“Hi. I didn’t think you were home.”

Jorden couldn’t help but recognize Matt’s voice. “I just got in. I had Thanksgiving dinner at Madison and Luke’s. How about you?”

“Not the best. I really need to talk with you. How about going out for a couple beers?”

“Sure,” Jorden replied. Her curiosity was peaked. Matt didn’t sound like his typical jovial self. “Are you okay?”

“Fine. I just need to talk to you,” Matt replied. “Will seven work?”