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 ended

Beverley was stunned, and Hertha was just as taken

absence did

leave the

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 ungrateful bitch,

"My son is sick

interrupting, and then calmly said, "I'm sorry,

she blocked Beverley's number. Then she opened her messaging app, deleted their

sigh of relief,

tried calling back only to find the line busy. She

...

smile at the corner of her mouth and asked,

having just sorted out a

the day, darkness had fallen. The night breeze carried a hint of chill, and the dim streetlights cast a warm glow,