Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Hertha was puzzled.

If it had been any other time, Roseanne would have been at Murray's hospital bedside in a heartbeat, fussing over him with water and endless concern, her eyes brimming with tears. But this time, she was nowhere to be seen.

When Hertha voiced her thoughts, a deathly silence spread. Stone-faced, Murray said nothing. Cliff and York, who knew the situation, dared not make a sound.

Corley finally spoke up, his voice indifferent. "They broke up. Didn't you guys know?"

Beverley frowned. "Still holding a grudge? How many days has it been? Her temper sure has grown!"

Upon hearing that, Murray's expression darkened.

"Ahem! Beverley, it might not be so easy to resolve this time..." Corley glanced at Beverley.

Beverley exploded, "What do you mean? Roseanne is putting on airs now?"

stern, "it's truly over this time. I was the one who

was stunned, and Hertha was just as

Roseanne's absence did

leave the hospital, Beverley immediately

call connected, Beverley sneered before Roseanne could speak. "Who do you think you are? My son was a blessing in your life! All these years, how much has he spent on you, and how have you repaid him? You

teeth. "My son is sick now.

Roseanne listened quietly, not interrupting, and then calmly said, "I'm sorry,

she opened

of relief, feeling

the abrupt end of the call, Beverley tried calling back only to find the line busy. She was livid. "Fine! Have it

...

at the corner of

having just

they left the library at the end of the day, darkness had fallen. The night breeze carried a hint of chill, and the dim streetlights cast a warm glow, rustling the