Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

The trio stepped out of the restaurant into the crisp evening air.

"Man, you're like a celeb, Owen. Had everyone huddling around you like you're the lead singer of a band or something." "Celeb?"

"Yeah, you know, like a pop idol."

Owen chuckled, shaking his head. "It's all about the perks, isn't it? No idol business there."

Leda sniffed the air subtly. "Have you been drinking? You didn't drive, did you?"

"Just a bit. No, I didn't drive."

"Perfect, hop in. I'll drop you and Anne off."

Leda's car couldn't quite make it down the narrow lane, so Roseanne and Owen decided to walk the rest of the way.

Under a sky scattered with stars, a gentle breeze carried the occasional meow from a distant alley cat.

Owen stumbled over a discarded fast food wrapper, his balance off from the drinks.

"You okay?"

"Sorry, ended up having a couple more than I should have."

not to let the smell of alcohol reach her, Owen consciously maintained

sincere, making Roseanne feel

home drunk, never once thinking

her then, how different people

or York; swimming in a

and steady,

there

admirers, yet humble and

didn't equate

chose to be more disciplined and meticulous

need to network

currency. But how do we exchange these? A drink often serves as the

no profession is exempt. It's just a matter of degree." "Consider holidays, when even the youngest kids are dragged along on family visits. Isn't that a form

see it as

It could be over tea, fishing, hiking, camping... doesn't sound like networking,

by the first definition,

a new perspective for Roseanne,

as networking for you?"

"How so?"

were former mentors, close friends, and a few acquaintances hoping for favors. Sharing a meal and drinks with mentors and friends doesn't

I can't refuse those I'm