Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Alva spoke earnestly, "What I'm trying to say is actually quite simple. Us women, no matter how tough things get, should never look for shortcuts. We need to keep our feet on the ground and work hard. Opting for dubious shortcuts isn't the way to go, and we definitely

shouldn't rely on sheer luck!"

Roseanne nodded in agreement. "That's very true."

"You agree with me, right?" Alva asked, her expression one of hopeful redemption.

"Of course."

"Good, then I'm relieved," she said, nodding with satisfaction. "Let's cancel the lease on the villa as soon as possible. We might lose a bit in fees, but wouldn't it be better for peace of mind?"

Roseanne blinked in confusion.

"What's wrong? Can't bear to let it go?" Alva's face darkened, thinking all her advice had fallen on deaf ears.

Roseanne laughed, suddenly understanding the purpose of this conversation.

"First off, Aunt Alva, I completely agree with you. Women should indeed depend on themselves. But-" She changed tack. "I haven't been depending on anyone else. So, I'll consider your words as shared experience and definitely won't take them personally." Wasn't that clear enough? Anyone with ears and a brain could understand.

Roseanne added, "Moreover, I bought the villa for my parents. The contract is signed, and there's no backing out now. Lastly, I'd suggest that when you share life advice in the future, maybe gauge the situation a bit more. Giving advice is one thing, but giving orders is entirely unnecessary."

cancel it" had made the decision for

it nicely, it was "out of concern"; less nicely,

going to indulge

Unsurprisingly, Alva stormed off.

she left, she tossed back, "Sharp-tongued and

frowned deeply upon

spoke up directly.

at an

consider her

concerned that if Alva knew, did that mean others

coming one after another, although she could handle it,

week was calm. No one else came

process continued

real hassle was the trees in the yard that had been growing for over a decade; relocating them

time.

MS

contrast, Madge had it easier; her most treasured possessions were the books

could take her books,

settled,

with greenery and newly transplanted magnolia trees, added a touch of