“Hey Jude” played while couples danced. Jorden swayed to the rhythm of the music as her eyes shifted to the doorway. While already planning her departure, a young man came into view. His smile slanted slightly, accentuating a strong jawline. He had a sense of aloofness—yet his hazel eyes brought out a softness, eyes looking directly at her as he moved closer.

“You aren’t leaving, are you?”

“Why would you ask?” Jorden looked perplexed.

“Your eyes haven’t left the door. I’m Alex Whelan. And you are?”

“Jorden Marshall.”

“Good. Now I know someone—at least someone’s name. I didn’t mean to come off so blunt, but the way you were eyeing the door I knew you wouldn’t be here long.”

“I was dragged here by my friends who have now vanished.” Jorden glanced at a swirl of people dancing.

“I seldom come to these parties, but I was also talked into it by my roommate. There’s Tom.” Alex pointed to him in the crowd of dancers. “Now I’m glad he did.”

Jorden relaxed to the tone of Alex’s voice. He sounded like a New Yorker.

“Can I get you something to drink?”

“Thank you. Sounds good.”

Jorden watched Alex’s easy gait carry his trim but solid frame past the couples dancing. He looked close to six foot with a head of dark brown hair. A few minutes later he returned with two tall, bubbling glasses.

“I’m not sure what we have here. The bartender’s hands flew pouring the drinks. Let me try it. Hmm . . . ginger-ale, lime, and some gin. It’s good—not too strong.” Alex slipped the other glass into her hand.

Jorden took a sip. “It’s good. Thank you.”

“You don’t sound like a southerner. Where are you from?”

“New Jersey. And you?”

“Albany. In New York,” Alex replied.

“I knew it. You sound like a New Yorker!”

“Have you ever been there?”

“I’ve been to New York City—I had a great time.” Jorden couldn’t help but blush under his steady gaze.

“Albany can’t compare to the big city, but its history makes it an interesting capital. Where’s your home in New Jersey?” Alex asked.

Jorden smiled. “It’s also the capital. Know it?”

“Of course, it’s Trenton.” Alex’s eyes crinkled with triumph.

“I’m impressed.”

“What else do you want to know?” Alex laughed. “Still, I’m curious, what brought you to Georgia?”

“My family’s from the South. After four years at the university, I thought Columbus seemed a logical place to begin my first year of teaching.”

“Makes sense,” Alex replied.

“I take it you’re in the army.” Jorden assumed most of the men at the party were.

“Right. The draft caught me. I have another eighteen months before I’m out, but I’m sure Vietnam is on the horizon.”