Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Norris replied, "I guess I should discuss it with Madge first before..."

"Discuss?" Joie's voice dropped, "Discuss what? You're the man of the house! Are you saying you can't make a simple decision without running it by your wife?" "Mom, it's not about being the man of the house. It's just basic respect to at least mention it to Madge..."

"Spineless! Go ahead and discuss. It's best if she agrees, but it doesn't matter if she doesn't. Your father and I are definitely coming over tomorrow!"

With that, Joie slammed down the phone.

Norris was speechless.

"What's wrong? Who was that?" Madge walked in from the backyard to see her husband scratching his head.

"...Mom."

"What did she say?"

"She wants to come over for a family dinner tomorrow, kind of a housewarming..."

"That sounds lovely," Madge said with a smile. "Let's invite the whole clan then. Jack, Jill, and their families, and don't forget Alva and the rest."

...

bright and early, Madge

in the afternoon, everyone

walked in, looking around, her heart

had moved into a mansion, a luxurious one at that, but

the most eloquent and composed guest found themselves unusually

a nudge from Irving Cole for Abbey to manage

there, turning to Madge,

"Of course."

around the living room and then

to

only did she show up, but she also handed Madge a generous envelope, beaming, "This mansion looks fantastic, congratulations!" Madge tried to refuse but

"Thank you, Raven."

family, no need for

Raven, taking the prime seats on the couch and began surveying the interior

mansion was...

outclassed their current townhouse

decor was already impressive, but Roseanne had added her touch inside and