Alex shrugged and continued. “After lunch, each platoon runs in formation to afternoon classes. Field work begins around three, with map reading, weapons training, shooting machine guns, grenade launchers . . .”

Grenade launchers caught her attention as her peripheral vision took in his strong shoulders and the strength in his upper arms. He was slim but in a well-built way.

His voice filtered back. “After dinner, the candidates return to their barracks for study hall. Lights are out at nine thirty, ending a typical day.”

“Wow, sounds like a lot of work.” Jorden shifted in her seat to get a better look at him.

Antonio interrupted them. “Would you like to order dessert?”

“Not for me.” Jorden placed her napkin on the table.

Antonio turned to Alex. “Not tonight, maybe another time.” Jorden liked what the words implied.

The drive back took about fifteen minutes. Alex turned the Mustang into the apartment complex and parked near Jorden’s entrance. Gently, he pulled her close. “Are you free Thursday night? Maybe we could go for a soda? Thursdays aren’t the best for me, but I’d like to see you again.”

“Thursday’s fine. But . . . call me first to let me know when you can get off.”

“I will.” Alex leaned over and lightly kissed her.

Jorden watched him from the living room window. He sat in the Mustang a moment before he drove off.

The next morning Madison was full of questions.

“How was your date?”

“Fine,” Jorden said with a nod.

“Really? You sound like one of my second graders! Fill me in on the details.”

“I had a great time. Alex is fun.” Jorden flipped up the switch on the toaster as she checked her toast. “I may see him Thursday night.”

“You may? What about Justin?”

“What about him? It can’t hurt to see Alex during the week.” Jorden looked away to avoid Madison’s scowl. On purpose, Jorden changed the subject. “How about you? Have you heard from Luke?”

“I got several letters yesterday. He seems to be doing all right. I can’t help but worry about him.”

Jorden touched Madison’s shoulder. “I’m sure he’s okay.” She knew Madison’s thoughts centered on Luke. He would be in Vietnam for another ten months.

That afternoon, Jorden got home before Madison. She turned on the five o’clock evening news. Scott O’Brady, the local newscaster, began to highlight happenings in the Vietnam War, both at home and in the warzone:

“The United States is in turmoil with rallies against the Vietnam War. The anti-war sentiments have been fueled by the Tet Offensive and the battle of Khe Sanh.”

Madison had a map of Vietnam on the dining room wall for reference. She liked to see where the fighting took place. So did Jorden.