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

vocal about treating, when it came down to choosing the spot, she thoughtfully considered Sammy's situation. Sammy's

he still sent money home every month, so his budget was tight. The

the restaurant Owen had chosen last time, its vibrant atmosphere made for

ease, Roseanne sitting beside him in

him catch glimpses of

When Jen said 'see you tomorrow' as she left, and Mr. Stoddard,

but she was acutely aware of the distance

adults, they weren't overt in their actions, but the subtle differentiation was palpable to

she felt that gap

Owen turned to see her

contained within

A

out to touch

I saw, you did

presumption, his voice as warm

Roseanne looked up suddenly,

and she awkwardly looked away touching her flushed ear as if trying to hide her