Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

On the way, after a brief exchange, Owen and Roseanne fell into their worlds of silence.

Owen had picked his usual ride for the day. Perhaps sensing Roseanne's somber mood, he kept the car at a considerate pace, neither too fast nor slow.

Upon reaching the suburbs, the security guard at the gated community greeted Roseanne with a nod. "Ms. Cole, I haven't seen you for a while. Have you been away on business?" Roseanne gave a weak smile but said nothing. Owen glanced at her and decided not to ask any more questions.

They arrived at the villa in silence, and Owen parked the car.

"I'll just be a minute. Just need to grab some books," Roseanne said, stepping out of the car.

Owen offered to help. "Do you need a hand?"

She shook her head. "No, it's just a few books. I can manage."

With that, she headed toward the villa.

The doorbell chimed, and Sadie's voice floated through, "Coming!"

Upon seeing Roseanne, Sadie exclaimed with surprise, "Ms. Cole!"

You're finally back!

Roseanne smiled. "Just here to pick up some stuff..."

"Are you..."

of bed in his pajamas, Murray stood at the top of

can handle it?" He held a coffee mug, looking

the deal to take my stuff and go? Whether I can carry them is my problem," Roseanne retorted, heading straight

passed by Murray,

the books into sturdy

from the

a

icy as Roseanne sweated

the effort without asking

bet

Roseanne was ready to drag the bag

and grabbed her by the shoulders. "Roseanne,

I to

are, willing to step into this

for air, struggling. "You're hurting me.

was beyond reason, his eyes blazing. "Answer me! What am I to you? Your lap dog,

you

Have you