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."

about it?" Roseanne asked,

I'll do everything I can to give it to you as long as you're with me..." Whether it was

into another? Mr. Lincoln, it was nice

turned

right then. And they'd both do well to stay

watched her slim figure disappear, a shadow crossing

you think you can

for some fresh air, when he spotted York with his phone, grinning like

wasn't bothered by his tone, lifting his phone with pride and waving

his sharp eyes, Corley glanced at the photo and instantly recognized the people

face alight with the thrill of gossip. "Not

of two men vying for one woman's affection with their own

judging by Roseanne's reaction," He paused, his