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."

of attention,

shall we?" A waiter passed by with a tray of wine, from which

do the same. After she finished her drink, she checked the time and hinted

raised an eyebrow. "Leaving so

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

"Okay," she agreed.

more than expected, and the room felt warm. Corley got caught up with other guests, so Roseanne asked a waiter for directions and headed toward the garden through an arched doorway. Murray watched Roseanne leave, his face darkening. She hadn't given him a moment's attention, and she was going without a glance

was about to

to his arm. "Babe,

under the weather. Can we find somewhere to sit down,

leaning into him like

moment,

but to step back, his voice

room to the garden wasn't far, lined with lush greenery and

of these