Till Dark

Jordan didn't stop until she reached a safe distance from the house, and then she turned around slowly taking in the palm trees lining a stone wall with waves crashing to the shore on the other side. The smell of the salty air made her smile as she scanned the yard noticing the beautiful gardens behind the house not quite concealed by the tall hedges. The house itself was made from stone and brick with black shingles and was quite large, with giant steps leading down to a stone walkway. Jordan felt as if she were looking at a castle with its high arched windows and balconies supported by stone pillars. This magnificent house stood in front of her majestically with three levels clearly visible and possibly a basement. Flowerbeds and carefully trimmed hedges adorned the porch and spacious green lawn. Stone statues and a water garden were to the right of the house and to the left were sporadically placed willows and palms. A stone table and two matching stools were placed under one of the willow trees. Flowers and lavender trees were on each side of the circular driveway. The balcony contained white metal furniture perfect for afternoon tea or an evening of stargazing. The house looked very grand and strong just like its owner but there was softness, almost a homey feel when she looked at it. Jordan's eyes took in the sight of this beautiful estate for a moment before a movement at the doorway caught her attention; it was Andy; his tall lithe frame was leaning against the doorjamb. He saw Jordan staring back at him; although her expression was fathomless he knew that she was thinking of him. This woman is amazing he thought. His mind went back to her standing on the stairs and then in the foyer; how perfect she had looked here. The house seemed so alive with her presence and Andy liked it. Children were never on his agenda and frankly marriage had never been either until he had laid eyes on Jordan McKenzie. Most of the women he had seen socially were more interested in his bank account than him. She was neither impressed with his bank account or him for that matter. He smiled at that thought. "You are one heck of a lady." He stated smiling at her.

He thought about how most women in Jordan's position would have lavished him with unending praise but not her. She had insulted him not once but twice and looked every bit as poised as if she had just stepped from Vogue. "She makes a tiger seem like a puppy." He muttered under his breath with a faint smile touching his lips. He continued watching her with piqued interest but made no move toward her and for a long moment they stared at one another. A fire from somewhere deep inside started to ignite and finally Jordan tore her gaze from his. Abruptly she turned on her heel and headed toward the arching medal gates in front of her; feeling Andy watching her with the same hooded wanton as before, which was all the more reason for her to put as much space between herself and this man as possible. As she neared, Jordan stared up at the beautiful gates so much like the owner of this cast castle. She could see a large "N" written in coiling wrought iron. The gates swung open silently on their own after a few moments; mocking her as she watched. Standing there patiently until there was enough room for her to pass then marched through without a backward glance.