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."

it?" Roseanne asked, lifting

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 still raced at the

nice seeing you today. But from now on, it's best if we part

turned and

right then. And they'd

figure disappear, a shadow crossing

tree desires calm, but the wind will not cease. Do you think you can escape?" Unbeknownst to them,

spotted York with his phone, grinning like a cat that

lifting his phone with pride and waving

eyes, Corley glanced at the photo and instantly recognized the

"Not just her, but Aaron too. I've already sent it to

had witnessed the drama of two men vying for one woman's affection with

Roseanne's reaction," He paused,