Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

On a quiet night, a whisper floated through the darkness from the other end of the phone, "Anne, it hurts."

Murray's voice was shaky, betraying his pain. In that instant, Roseanne felt sympathy.

Murray was strong, stubborn, and never one to back down. Whether it was drinking himself into a stomach ulcer or working so hard that he forgot to eat, he pushed himself to the limit. During those times, Roseanne had tried everything to help him recuperate.

She ensured he ate three square meals and even learned some massage techniques from an experienced physiotherapist. After much effort and time, she managed to get his health back on track. Yet, all she got in return was a terse "You're a bother." And sometimes, when his patience ran thin, he'd frown and snap, "Why are you acting like my mom?"

The memories, long buried, resurfaced in her mind, but the wave of sympathy quickly faded.

Roseanne replied, "I'm not a doctor. If it's that bad, go to the hospital."

When he heard her cold response, Murray's grip on the phone tightened, yet he persisted, "I want the oatmeal you make."

Roseanne stayed silent, listening.

end, resulting in a silent standoff. Finally, Roseanne was

motionless, holding the phone. Thinking he was asleep, the nurse glanced over and was surprised to find

are you..." The nurse's voice trailed

the phone and closed his

...

day, Roseanne was already up as dawn

dialed Cliff's number. "How's your stomach? Feeling better? Still want some

sleep, Cliff

even opening his eyes. But the moment he heard Roseanne's voice, he

your oatmeal

it in a few

have been craving it ever since. I wish I could have

to come and pick it up before ending the call. She and Murray could never return to what they once were.

Murray would ask her to leave it to cool down each time, planning to eat it later.