Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

He had just finished class, hurrying over from the lecture hall, textbooks still in hand.

Jen said, "So, Sammy and Roseanne were having a math-off earlier. They bet that the loser would treat everyone to dinner. And well, someone lost, and now we're all buzzing about what to munch on tonight." Owen glanced around, catching Roseanne's eyes twinkling with laughter, the group's spirits high.

It was like all the awkwardness just melted away, and she really became part of the group.

A smile naturally spread across Owen's face. "Alright, let's knock off early today then, wait for Sammy's treat."

"Eh?" Jen looked puzzled. "Professor, I didn't even say who lost, how did you know it's Sammy's treat?"

Owen replied, "Isn't it obvious Sammy lost?"

Jen said, "... Yes."

Sammy was totally speechless!

"Hey Liz, you coming?" Jen casually asked.

Liz replied, "Nope."

being at a cozy roadside

the most vocal about treating, when it came down to choosing the spot, she thoughtfully considered Sammy's situation. Sammy's family was modest, with his

joining the research group, his financial situation had slightly improved, yet he still sent money home every month, so his budget was tight.

as the restaurant Owen had chosen last

with ease, Roseanne sitting beside

head would let him catch glimpses of her eyes, sparkling with excitement. Owen chuckled,

Stoddard, he just

but she was acutely aware of

overt in their actions, but

felt that gap had

red light, Owen turned to see her gleaming eyes,

were contained

A

reaching out to touch

I saw, you did

of any presumption, his voice as warm as

Roseanne looked up suddenly,

eyes with him. Her breath caught and she awkwardly looked away touching