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

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

found herself craving Norris

heading back? Planning to

be a while. It's been so long; I want to spend more time

sense. They must miss

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

"Didn't you see?"

"No."

remembered she had

like Murray got her a Hermes Kelly bag. Total show-off

even sure when

but stumbling upon

a drama unfold: "Talking about a Christmas gift, and there's a pic with their. hands, making sure everyone knows Murray spent Christmas Eve with her. But then, Cliff,

Starlight? He made it home

section turned awkward real

couldn't help but smirk:

Hermes bag and

Murray, you