Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Before Owen could utter a word, Roseanne glanced over the table, found a clean plate, and picked up a small piece of her peach pie with her fork, placing them before him. "Try this?"

Owen hesitated before picking it up and slowly chewing it in his mouth.

Roseanne blinked. "Well? How is it?"

Seeing her hopeful look, Owen nodded. "It tastes good."

Roseanne beamed. "See? My recommendations never disappoint."

Owen couldn't help but laugh along.

...

Cliff interrupted, "Hey, Corley, your birthday's coming, huh? What's the plan this year? Go-kart racing, a drag queen show, or go big with a wild striptease party?"

York immediately approved. "Love that idea."

Their inquisitive gazes turned to the man of the hour, Corley. When it came to having fun, he was the most inventive of the trio. Some might look all prim and proper in a suit and tie, but they were wilder than anyone.

"Let's keep it simple with a birthday bash this year."

Cliff was puzzled. York was even more bewildered.

Corley asked, "What? Is there a problem?"

sound like you, Corley." Cliff eyed

smirk. "A birthday bash? What are you, turning

day and age, who would still do birthday

eyes lit up. "Is it the

straight, eyes sparkling with

"What are you thinking? The regular kind. I've booked a private mansion on Sunset Boulevard. Invitations will be out in

both looking confused.

...

somewhat surprised to receive a call from Corley and even

"Yes."

parties always drew people like Murray, and she really wasn't eager to run into

just

Cliff will be

come?

Corley noticed her hesitation

raised an eyebrow. "Or are

held the phone,

seems happy with his new

slightly frowned. "Of course not. We've made things clear and cut

that case, there's nothing to worry about. I'll send you the

hung up

...

the party, the mansion was bustling