Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

During that time, Madge was on the brink of depression. Thankfully, with the company of her husband and daughter, she gradually defeated the gloom. But since then, she swore off the internet, even using a flip phone meant for seniors.

A decade passed, and all she had to her name was a single coming-of-age novel set in high school. Beyond that, Madge hadn't penned anything new.

"Ah, let's not dwell on that. How's the doughnut?" Madge shifted the subject.

"Delicious, just like the old days," Roseanne replied, studying Madge's face, hesitating to speak her mind but ultimately holding back. "Just that the milk is a bit too hot."

"Is it? Let's let it cool down a bit then."

...

As Christmas Eve approached, the calm life in their small town gained a festive edge. Christmas decorations hung on either side of the main street, and the trees had colorful lights.

With the local grocery store packed to the brim and running low on supplies, Madge drove to the supermarket in the city center.

After parking, the mother-daughter duo took the elevator to the ground floor.

Before even entering, they saw two splendid Christmas trees on either side of the entrance. Inside was a bustling scene of people shopping for Christmas goods, the air filled with festive cheer.

Though they had no young children in their home, the Christmas celebration wasn't complete without visiting families and friends, especially the Cole family, catching up with former students who'd come, and the occasional neighbor dropping by. So, stocking up on snacks and fruits was a must.

Madge picked some candies and potato chip cookies as she passed the snack aisle. She grabbed various bottles and jars when she realized they were running low on kitchen essentials.

shrimp, Madge turned to ask Roseanne if she wanted to

back a few aisles and found Roseanne loading bars of ice-cold

slightly bitter, but eating it at home, warmed by the heater, feeling the chill spread from head to

several bars, not expecting to be

at Madge with a pleading

Madge replied,

them all back, leaving one in the

asked, "Mom, do you have to be so strict? One isn't enough, and what

head. "Your dad and I

"But I will!"

shot her a look. "Dream on. One,

Roseanne got it. "Fine."

Suddenly, a

Both turned around.

woman in her forties, all dressed up in

suit with her hair

bun held together

walked over.

Her look

as a mix of business

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