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

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

going to

Unsurprisingly, Alva stormed off.

tossed back, "Sharp-tongued and

deeply upon hearing

mind her," Madge spoke up directly. "Coming here to

hinted at an assumption

her own mother

was more concerned that

people kept coming one after another, although she could handle it,

her surprise, the following week was calm. No one

moving process

the potted plants was easy, but the real hassle was the trees in

time.

MS

had it easier; her most treasured possessions were the books in her

take her books, she

everything was settled, several

yard, filled with greenery and newly transplanted magnolia trees, added a touch