Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Upon hearing the noise, Cliff dashed to the door to greet whoever was coming.

In a flash, there stood Murray, arm in arm with Millie.

'Hold on a minute!' Cliff let out a sharp hiss.

With a calm face, Murray greeted, "Cliff."

"Hey, Murray's here. Take a seat. Come on." Cliff hurried to welcome them, pouring drinks and offering snacks.

Later on, seizing the moment when Millie stepped away to the restroom, Cliff couldn't help but burst out, "Dude, what's going on? Weren't you two over? Why'd you bring her here?"

After a few drinks, Murray's gaze turned hazy. "She's young. Give it some time. She might not be able to accept it just yet."

Cliff felt a twinge of frustration. 'Still young? She's in college, for crying out loud! Murray's playing the fool here!'

Cliff asked, "And what about Roseanne? You're not planning to win her back?"

If that were the case, Corley would be over the moon.

Mentioning Roseanne, a pang hit Murray's heart. "Who said so?"

this then?" He glanced toward the

drink. "Don't rush it. Once I've settled things with

opportunities wouldn't wait and that Roseanne might have moved on by the time Murray had sorted

was, Cliff decided to keep quiet,

up until the early

the bill and got held into his car by the club's

in place, ensuring everyone got home

okay, not much

smoked too many,

He had extended his stay

planning to head there.

for Murray and Millie, they stood by the roadside waiting

part of a woman indove. "Babe, it's so late. How aboutwe head back to

implication was clear that she was willing to stay the

seconds, he suggested, "You have class tomorrow. I'd better drop you off

smile tightened, disappointment flashing in her eyes,

Murray's expression softened.

reached the gate of Grandstone Institute, he watched her disappear into the building before turning away. The driver inquired,