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."

actually asked about you

Coles knew Leda was their daughter's best friend. During summer breaks, they'd often send Roseanne back

now found herself craving Norris Cole's

when are you heading back?

It's been so long;

"Makes sense. They must miss

the phone, Leda's eyes suddenly sparkled as she stumbled upon something on her iPad: "Hilarious, just saw

"Didn't you see?"

"No."

remembered she had blocked Murray

like Murray got her a Hermes Kelly

wasn't even

Millie, but stumbling upon

Murray spent Christmas Eve with her. But then, Cliff, bless his heart, either

Murray just at Starlight?

turned awkward real

help but smirk:

a Hermes bag and she's

you could