Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

"Is someone still a writer if they can't produce a bestseller?"

Madge was fuming, "I have plenty of ideas, but you..."

Nadine cut her off, "Your ideas lack originality, they're not marketable. Writing them down would just be a waste of time, a waste of a publishing slot. They won't sell! Do you think you're still the 'Mystery Queen' everyone raved about?"

"Face it, Madge, you're washed-up! It's time to face reality, and face who you are now."

"Mom-" Roseanne couldn't stand it any longer and stormed out from behind the shelf.

Madge quickly cleaned her tears and forced a smile, saying, "Did you get it?"

Roseanne shook the allspice, "Right here. Dad might be back from his school by now, let's check out and head home?"

"Sure."

"Mrs. Harper, we'll be leaving now," Roseanne spoke for her mother.

She knew Madge was deeply hurt and didn't want to face the person causing her such pain.

Nadine managed a smile, "Sure, I'll browse around a bit more."

Then, looking at Madge, she added, "Think about what I said. Ah, we've been friends and collaborators for so many years." Madge looked down, silent.

took the shopping cart and

sign a ten-year contract with

"Yeah."

this year is

did the math, "Indeed

you think

before saying, "... She's

laughed lightly, not saying much, only asking, "Do you

"Yes, why?"

see it

"What for?"

Is that

You can see

surprised, "All those are just practice drafts, why would

I suddenly

a mom

seriously read your work. If anyone asks, I can share about it. Otherwise, they might

making it up."

to read Madge's bestsellers—'The Weapon'

Madge always said, "Too gory," "Not suitable for children," "Wait

turning eighteen, Roseanne lost interest in opening