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."

Roseanne asked, lifting her gaze with

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 still raced

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

she turned and

was someone she wanted to deal with right then. And they'd both do well to

disappear,

whispering with a slight chuckle. "Anne, the tree desires calm, but the wind will not cease. Do you think you can escape?" Unbeknownst to them, someone had witnessed the entire scene. York checked the

some fresh air, when he spotted York with his phone, grinning like a cat that got the cream. "What's with

tone, lifting his phone with pride and

glanced at the photo and instantly recognized the people in it.

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

one woman's affection with their own eyes, recalling how crazed

paused, his tone taking on