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, he'd mingled

with a tray of wine, from which he took a glass,

drink in one gulp, prompting Roseanne to do the same. After she finished her drink, she checked the time

"Leaving so soon? The party's just getting

he quickly added, "How about you stay

"Okay," she agreed.

toward the garden through

about to follow when

to his arm. "Babe,

the weather. Can we find somewhere to

into him

that moment, Roseanne had

no choice but to step back, his voice tinged with irritation, "Let's

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

Some of