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."

ended up being at a cozy

thoughtfully considered Sammy's situation. Sammy's family was modest, with his parents working tirelessly to support his PhD

financial situation had slightly improved, yet he still sent money home every month, so

restaurant Owen had chosen last time, its vibrant atmosphere made for a very satisfying

way back, Owen drove with ease, Roseanne sitting beside him in the

him catch glimpses of her eyes, sparkling with excitement. Owen chuckled, "Are you that

said 'see you tomorrow' as she left, and Mr. Stoddard, he just gave away his prized

voice it, but she was acutely aware of the distance

they weren't overt in their actions, but

she felt that gap

light, Owen turned to see her gleaming

contained within

A

to touch her head.

I saw, you

of any presumption, his voice as

Roseanne looked up suddenly,

awkwardly looked away touching her flushed ear as if trying