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."

the birthday boy, the center of attention, he'd mingled

waiter passed by with a tray of wine, from which he took a glass, "Cheers

After she finished her drink, she

an eyebrow. "Leaving so soon?

her hesitation, he quickly added, "How about you

"Okay," she agreed.

directions and headed toward the garden through an arched doorway. Murray watched Roseanne leave, his face darkening. She hadn't

was about to follow

his arm.

to sit down, please?"

into him like adelicate

that moment, Roseanne had

back, his

path from the living room to the garden wasn't far, lined with lush greenery and exotic flowers that

of these rare