Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Aaron couldn't stand the thought of her walking away. "All these years, Murray's treated you like some prized trophy, keeping you locked away at home, making it damn near impossible for anyone else to even

glimpse you."

Roseanne looked up, her smile fading slightly. "What are you trying to say?"

Aaron took a deep breath. "Back in the day, you turned us down but ended up with him because he wouldn't give up, always the more persistent one. But did you ever stop and think that his persistence was more about winning the game than about you?"

Roseanne felt her already shattered heart torn apart again. Was what she considered deep affection merely a momentary passion, a desire to compete and win?

Seeing her face turn pale, a flicker of sympathy crossed Aaron's eyes.

He reached out, trying to touch her face, but Roseanne stepped back, putting distance between them. "Mr. Lincoln, please keep your distance."

Aaron leaned in closer. "Stop pretending. I know things are done between you and Murray."

asked, lifting her gaze with a

me. I'll cherish you and protect you more than Murray ever could. Whatever you want, I'll do everything I can to give it to you as long as you're with me..." Whether it was six years ago or today, Aaron's heart

from one mess into another? Mr. Lincoln, it was nice seeing you today. But from now

she turned and walked

someone she wanted to deal with right then.

her slim figure disappear, a shadow

you can escape?" Unbeknownst to them, someone

York with his phone,

by his tone, lifting his phone with pride and waving it

the photo and instantly recognized the

York nodded, his face alight with the thrill of gossip. "Not just her, but Aaron too.

woman's affection with their own eyes, recalling

paused, his tone