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

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

he still sent money home every month, so his budget was tight. The diner was affordable and tasty, making it the

upscale as the restaurant Owen had chosen last

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

slight turn of his head would let him catch glimpses of her

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

was acutely aware of

their actions, but the subtle differentiation was

felt that gap had

red light, Owen turned

contained

A

reaching out to touch her head.

I saw,

any presumption, his voice

Roseanne looked up suddenly,

looked away touching her flushed ear as if