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."

asked about you

knew Leda was their daughter's best friend. During summer breaks,

found herself craving Norris

heading

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

"Makes sense. They must

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

"Didn't you see?"

"No."

then remembered she had blocked Murray a while

updated her status. Looks like Murray got her a

even

Millie, but

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

at Starlight? He

section turned awkward real

couldn't help but smirk:

bag and

Murray, you could