Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Roseanne always had a soft spot for the cozy diner on the second floor during her college days. The person serving the comfort food with a smile was a round-faced lady who always carried an air of happiness. Whenever Roseanne showed up, the lady would chatter away cheerfully, then generously scoop an extra helping of meat onto her plate.

From a distance, she could spot the familiar serving window. Nothing had changed. It had been three years since graduation, and Roseanne wasn't sure if the lady would still remember her.

As Roseanne joined the line, the lady was busy serving, not uttering anything. But when she felt the heft of the serving spoon, her face broke into a smile. "Thank you."

Owen paid for the food, and they found a spot to sit down.

Roseanne smiled. "It's been a while, but it tastes like before."

The chef's skills hadn't faded over the three years. If anything, they had improved.

Roseanne reminisced, "Back in college, I'd often lose track of time in the lab and forget to grab lunch. When I'd head out, it was almost 1:30 PM, and there wasn't much left. But that lady always saved a chicken leg for me."

Owen had been right behind her in line, recalling how the lady's impatience turned into a warm smile when she saw Roseanne.

get along well with my roommate. Aside from Leda and Ms. Payne, the diner lady was probably the kindest person to me.

Owen paused.

perfect place to focus. Honestly, reapplying

...

their meal,

and passed under trellises draped with vines. Soon, they found themselves by Kingswell University's most picturesque spot, Mirrorlight Lake. The lotuses were out

Roseanne found a stone bench to sit on,

watching the lotus leaves drift lazily on

Owen remarked, "Kingswell

.n

past two years, and it's been effective. That's why the lake is so clean. It is nice

Roseanne suddenly spoke, "About

ex-boyfriend,

Roseanne turned to him.