Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

It's not like Corley couldn't see the sparks between him and Roseanne. Even if they were subtle, they were unmistakably there. And if there was something there, it certainly wouldn't escape his notice.

He suddenly stopped in his tracks and turned around.

Roseanne, trailing a few steps behind because of his sudden halt, nearly collided with him.

She steadied herself just in time.

"Sorry," Corley said, looking down at her. "Forgot something."

Roseanne looked puzzled.

The next second, he handed her a cup of steaming hot cocoa.

The warmth spread through her palms, leaving her momentarily stunned.

"Hold on to it. If you spill, I'm not cleaning it up."

Roseanne was confused. "When did you buy this?"

They had been sitting face to face the whole time, and she hadn't noticed him ordering anything.

Corley smirked. "Secret."

I guess you've used this move

She felt they were

it wasn't

frightened her off and she ran

head back. I won't walk you to your door. You probably wouldn't want me

"Yeah."

watched her safely cross the street before driving

hot cocoa,

she

a tree.

haven't gone

the hot cocoa in her hand.

it's nice once

cocoa, curiously asking, "I've never tried it.

"Do you... want

"Sure, thank you."

"You're welcome."

steering wheel. Even waiting at a red light seemed more

...

rock music blared from the other end, causing Corley to frown. "Corley, what have you been up to lately?" Cliff moved to a quieter