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

thoughtfully considered Sammy's situation. Sammy's family was modest, with his parents working

every month, so his budget was tight. The diner was affordable and tasty, making it the perfect

had chosen last time, its vibrant atmosphere made for a

drove with ease, Roseanne sitting beside him in

head would let him catch glimpses of her

and Mr. Stoddard, he just gave away his prized math

it, but she was acutely aware of the distance

in their actions, but

she felt that gap

red light, Owen turned to see

contained within

A

to touch her head.

I saw, you

was gentle, devoid of any presumption, his voice as warm as

Roseanne looked up suddenly,

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