Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Alva caught the critical point in the conversation, "You're saying, the villa was bought by Roseanne?"

"Yeah, that girl has really made something of herself! Not like our Lauretta, who can only settle for a steady job at the power company..."

"How on earth did Roseanne get so much money as a young lady?"

Abbey covered her mouth with a hand, her laughter carrying a hint of mischief, "Well, that I don't know. But, as you said, she's a young lady. Nowadays, young ladies are quite capable. Designer clothes, luxury handbags - if they can't afford them, it doesn't mean they can't have someone else buy it for them..."

Alva's brow furrowed deeply.

"Oh dear, look at me, blabbering about things I shouldn't. Alright then, you're busy, I'll let you go."

Abbey chose this moment to gracefully exit the conversation, not lingering any further.

However, Alva, still holding the phone that had gone silent, appeared deep in thought.

No sooner had Abbey hung up with Alva, she dialed Raven.

"Hey, it's Abbey..."

"Just the person I wanted to talk to. I've got some clients who dropped off some wines and local goodies for the holidays. I've divided them into two portions, one for your family and one for Norris'. Swing by when you have a moment."

of the holiday gifts with Abbey's family, but

feeling

Norris getting a

than usual this time

to herself that no matter how much there was,

appreciate you always thinking of us, really. But Norris' family... I doubt they'd even

"Not interested?" Raven frowned.

to live in lakefront villas, rich people, you know? What don't they have in

was familiar

just familiar, but she

age, she, as a

son Halley

future wife had to come from a good family, so the matrimonial home

one

comfort or convenience; the choice

depended on the neighborily

connect socially, especially

deliberation, she settled on the Pearl

out of the question; if they were buying,