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

the spot, she thoughtfully considered Sammy's

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

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

Owen drove with ease, Roseanne sitting beside him in the passenger

would let him catch glimpses of her eyes,

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

but she was acutely aware of the

weren't overt in their actions,

however, she felt that gap

Owen turned to see her gleaming

contained within

A

reaching out to touch her head.

saw, you did

gentle, devoid of any presumption, his

Roseanne looked up suddenly,

looked away touching