Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Roseanne led the way, with Owen trailing a step behind. She seemed to have become her usual self, contrasting the previous night's unease. Owen pulled up the car, and Roseanne slid into the passenger seat. They were driving when they passed a local flower store.

Suddenly, Roseanne opened her mouth. "Could we stop for a moment, just two minutes? I want to pick up some flowers."

"Flowers?"

Roseanne nodded. "Yeah, for Ms. Payne."

Owen gripped the steering wheel, puzzled. "Is that necessary?"

Roseanne was stunned, then chuckled. "Do you always show up empty-handed when you visit someone?"

Owen nodded earnestly.

Roseanne gave him a thumbs-up, amused, thinking, "So this is how the big shots do it, huh?"

But still, the man pulled over.

...

traditional and modern designs, each standing alone, simple, yet full of character. After they passed

Roseanne tightened her grip on the

her hesitation. "Aren't you

bit her lip. "I think

glanced at her, then nodded.

After taking a few deep breaths, she unfastened her seatbelt and stepped out of

flowers greeted her. The flowers by the fence, probably neglected due to the owner's illness, looked wilted. Even before stepping inside, Roseanne could hear Madeleine's voice, causing

Owen greeted, "Ms. Payne."

journal magazine and adjusted her reading glasses. "Eh? Owen? What brings you

assist her. "Just checking on you. How have

me like this." She patted his hand. "You're too kind.

"Who?" Madeleine looked puzzled.

the doorway, head bowed like a child who had done something

hint of joy