Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

"Finally done!" Mamie exclaimed, closing her laptop with a sense of relief.

Beside her, an empty collection of soda cans bore witness to her long night.

Scales chimed in, "Let's go out. The meal's on me."

Roseanne and Mamie didn't hesitate to take up his offer.

After all, they had many more days of collaboration ahead, plenty of time for reciprocation.

Inside the steakhouse-

The place was lit by dazzling chandeliers, with the soft melodies of a piano playing in the background.

"Do you have a reservation?" the host asked.

"I booked a table yesterday," Scales responded, pulling up his reservation on his phone.

Soon, they were led to their table.

Roseanne had been here before and knew that although this place was pricier than most, the quality of food and service was unmatched.

Taking her seat, Mamie couldn't help but look around curiously, touching the fine linen and murmuring, "This is so different from back home..."

She then started snapping pictures with her phone.

Noticing the puzzled looks from her friends, she laughed awkwardly, "I'm sending these to Duke-oh, that's my dad. He's never seen a place like this before."

then focused on

her with a mix

her family situation was... like

he cautiously asked, "What does

a reaction that Scales and Roseanne interpreted as

not something you're comfortable sharing..." he trailed off, giving her

mom's a homemaker, doesn't work. And my dad, well, he doesn't have a traditional job either. He looks after our apartment building, kind of like a janitor, I guess. And since

a clear picture for

they had raised her to

under those

mstances.

said, "We'd love to

eyes sparkled, "Really?

said, "Order whatever you like,

"Really?" Mamie's eyes widened.

"Yes."

it. Waiter-can we start with three steaks,

on the number, but

Scales was momentarily speechless.

appetizers arrived, followed by

Scales passed on dessert, leaving it all

aren't you guys eating?"

you go ahead," Roseanne

grinned, "If you