Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Keeping up appearances was all that mattered, nobody wanted to stir the pot.

Caught in the middle, Murray Sherwood often played the role of Switzerland, avoiding confrontation at all costs. He neither initiated discussions nor inquired too deeply, adopting a see-no-evil, hear-no-evil

stance.

The thought of resolving the ongoing tension between his girlfriend and his mother was a bridge too far.

Roseanne Cole understood his position and never pressed the issue.

For instance, she never cornered him with questions like where they should spend Christmas Eve - with her or with his mother, Beverley. She spared him the dilemma.

Looking back, she realized all her concessions, patience, and understanding were merely self-consolation.

Men don't cherish; they take for granted and deem it their due.

Roseanne said, "Yeah, I missed my parents, so I bought a ticket home."

Her words were simple, but Leda Reynolds knew that mustering the courage to return home wasn't easy for her.

"How are your aunt and uncle? It's been ages since I last saw them. Say hi for me."

good, actually asked about you

daughter's best friend. During summer breaks, they'd often send Roseanne back with local

herself craving Norris Cole's homemade

when are you heading

pondered for a moment: "Might be a while. It's been so long; I want to spend more

They must miss you a

she stumbled upon something

"Didn't you see?"

"No."

had blocked Murray a

status. Looks like Murray got her a Hermes Kelly bag. Total show-off move,

wasn't even sure

but

hands, making sure everyone knows Murray spent Christmas Eve with her. But then, Cliff, bless his heart, either clueless or stirring

Murray just at Starlight? He made it

turned awkward

couldn't help

a Hermes bag and she's

Murray, you