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."

center of attention, he'd mingled and had a slight

waiter passed by with a tray of wine,

one gulp, prompting Roseanne to do the same. After she finished her drink, she checked the time and hinted that she should

eyebrow. "Leaving so soon? The

hesitation, he quickly added, "How about

"Okay," she agreed.

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,

was about to follow when

clung to his

weather. Can we find somewhere to sit down, please?"

leaning into him like

that moment,

step back,

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

of these rare