Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

He froze suddenly, almost reflexively yanking his hand away from Millie's gentle grasp.

Caught off guard, Millie couldn't help but frown, following his gaze, only to find Roseanne standing not too far ahead.

Murray furrowed his brows, turning to Corley. "You invited Roseanne?"

"Yeah, we're all friends here," Corley smiled innocuously.

Murray pressed, "Why didn't you give me a heads-up?"

Corley shrugged. "Got caught up, I guess. But I didn't think it'd be a big deal."

Meanwhile, Roseanne had spotted Murray, too, but quickly averted her gaze. She was there to drop off her well-wishes and leave. Her time was too precious, buried in books and research, to waste on social gatherings.

Approaching Corley, she said, "Happy birthday. Here's the present for you. It isn't expensive. Hope you like it." She handed him a gift box.

Corley accepted it with a chuckle. "Well, thanks a bunch."

attention, he'd mingled and had a slight

with a tray of wine, from which he

After she finished her drink, she checked the time

"Leaving so soon? The party's just

her hesitation, he quickly added, "How about you stay till we cut the

"Okay," she agreed.

directions and headed toward the garden through an arched doorway. Murray watched Roseanne

about to follow

clung to his arm. "Babe,

find somewhere to sit

him

that moment,

back, his voice

the garden wasn't far, lined with lush greenery and exotic flowers

Some of these rare