Jorden shifted her position to get a closer look at Matt. While he was different from anyone she had ever met, she found him curiously attractive. For this reason she should say no to dinner. Meaning, no one could come between her and Alex.

“No response. I assume you must mean yes?”

Jorden wavered, “I don’t think so. I have a lot going on this weekend.” She really didn’t, but she thought she should explain in some way.

“Aren’t you hungry?” Matt’s eyes met hers with an open smile. “I sure am.”

Say no! Jorden could hear her mom’s voice reverberating in her mind. She knew Mom would be rooting for Alex. Even subconsciously, her mother was always trying to control her. But, she then thought, Mom was over a thousand miles away up north in New Jersey. Put her out of your mind! Jorden remained silent for a half second, then she smiled. She couldn’t resist his appeal, and besides, it was only dinner.

“Why not? I am hungry!”

Chapter 3: October 1969

Chapter 3

October 1969

Matt parked across the street from Amore’s. He gestured toward the Italian restaurant. “I’ve heard they’re good.”

“They are good, but I’d rather not.”

“Why not?” Matt looked confused.

Jorden quivered. She tried to collect her thoughts. She didn’t want to talk about Alex. He was a separate part of her life—one she didn’t want to share. So she just blurted out, “You do know . . . I’m getting married next summer?”

“Yes. So, what does this have to do with Amore’s?” Matt turned down the radio.

“We used to go there a lot—Alex and I. It doesn’t seem right.”

“I know you’re getting married. Nate explained your situation. I also know I’m probably going to Vietnam within the next year. There will be no commitments or attachments between us. That makes seeing you much easier—if you’ll see me. Just think of me as an escort, not a date.”

Jorden exhaled. “Sounds reasonable.” Simple and uncomplicated. She didn’t need to say anything to Alex.

“Good,” Matt said, as he grinned. “Shall we have dinner with Harry again?”

Jorden laughed. “Never!”

“Okay. How about Fiona’s? It’s across from Columbus Square. I’ve never been there, but it looks nice.”

“Let’s try it. I haven’t been there either.” Jorden relaxed and leaned into the car seat.

Fiona’s turned out to be a small, cozy Greek restaurant. Matt checked the menu. “How about a pepperoni pizza and a beer?”

“Sounds good,” Jorden said with a nod.

“Great.” Matt stepped up and placed their order. “It should take ten to fifteen minutes—time for you to tell me about yourself. You don’t sound like you’re from Georgia.”