Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

He adjusted his glasses and said, "Physics isn't something you can master overnight. It has its rhythm and path, and you can't stop it on a whim." A bit sheepish, the project leader responded, "I was just saying."

They parted ways on less-than-friendly terms. Owen turned around, only to see Roseanne smiling and waving at him. "Long time no see, neighbor."

Walking side by side on their way home, Roseanne deliberately steered the conversation away from the earlier incident, opting for lighter topics instead. "Thanks for your help the other day. I've been sailing through my assignments ever since."

Owen shrugged it off modestly. "It's all you. Your insight made the difference. Have you met with Ms. Payne lately?"

Hands clasped behind her back, Roseanne gazed at the ground as they strolled. "No, just a few phone calls. She's recovering nicely and should return to the university in a few days."

"That's good to hear," Owen nodded. "Ms. Payne takes her teaching duties very seriously. I bet she's itching to get back."

As the evening darkened, a cyclist wobbled past them.

Stepping on an uneven paving stone, Roseanne stumbled and nearly lost her balance, almost crashing into the bicycle.

In a flash, Owen reached out, grabbing her slender wrist firmly and pulling her close to avoid the oncoming bicycle.

you okay?" His warm fingers tightly clasped her wrist through

ears flushed with warmth.

so close that their breaths seemed to mingle. Realizing it, Roseanne took a step back. Owen, too, let go of her

her home,

moment

the details magnifying

the warmth of his

hand,

minty freshness

eyes. She touched her wrist, feeling a phantom

sweaty and uncomfortable. Slipping into flip-flops, he took a shower and ordered

checking his

for a

slippers at

Roseanne wore the last time he visited her. Her toes, peeking out from the dark slippers, appeared dainty and fair