Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Chapter 459

Chapter 459

"Look, the key to winning her heart is all in the details. You've got to show her you care, you know? It's not just about asking how her day was or sending a 'goodnight' text. It's about being there, showing up with her favorite comfort food when she's had a tough day, surprising her with thoughtful gifts, not just on holidays but whenever. Be her rock, man." "That's how she'll know you're the real deal. Then, she'll be able to let go of any doubts and truly fall into your arms, trust me."

"Got it?"

Owen couldn't help but agree.

Except for one little thing.

The whole idea of a dramatic 'fall into the arms' move or stealing a kiss just didn't sit right with him.

Too risky, too forced.

It felt disrespectful, not romantic.

Respect was key.

Yet, in his dreams, he'd thrown all respect out the window, doing exactly those things he despised.

Even asking, "Anne, do you like it?" in a moment of madness.

regret, cradling his head like a guilty child caught stealing cookies. Eventually, he calmed down, got out of

he was over

was it happening

...

next morning, Stoddard arrived at the

before and was determined to make it up before Owen

he wouldn't oversleep, he set three alarms, waking up before dawn to get to the

And then-

Isn't it Sunday? We agreed to

was a mix of surprise

by the workbench, simply lifted his gaze, "So, you didn't

was caught off

This was bad.

here, man? Sometimes, I swear, you're too much. You could give pretzels a run for their money with how twisted you get." Owen just hummed in response, "I've already

in his

gears, flashing a grin, "Ah, c'mon, I was just messing with you. Who doesn't love a good pretzel, right? Twisted in all the right

Owen just stared...

Stoddard was about to collapse from exhaustion and

Owen's office, he overheard

make those ribs sweet... Two portions... Deliver them to the lab by six... Great,