Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Corley: "She grew up in a home filled with love. Do you know what that means?"

Murray turned around.

Corley, emphasizing each word: "It means she has the confidence that comes from being loved and the courage to break free. Maybe that's why, when she was with you, she was so unwavering, even willing to stand against the world." "Too bad, you let all that go to waste."

"Perhaps, to you and others, Roseanne's actions and her later unconditional patience seemed like she was just head over heels."

"But I know that's not the case. She just wanted to give her all, without holding back, for the man she chose and for the decisions she once made."

"And all she asked for in return was a good beginning and a good end."

Corley knew exactly how to hit where it hurt.

Murray staggered, his eyes reddening: "Are you bragging?"

"You can think of it that way." He spread his hands, no longer bothering to pretend.

"Children raised in such families inevitably have high standards for love. What she wanted was whole, inclusive, clean, pure affection."

Not a choice made after weighing pros and cons.

Corley thought Murray was a joke, but he was no better himself. He was used to scheming, planning, and being strategic. In the past, he would never have sacrificed so many profitable ventures just to pursue a woman. Because, as Murray said, chasing a woman and making money weren't mutually exclusive.

But suddenly, Corley didn't want to be so calculating anymore.

He wanted to be impulsive for Roseanne.

a second, a

Countless times.

out, the door

outside the door, nearly jumping out

like Murray could devour

bold, drop

pieces on the floor. During this, he brewed a

this. This tea needs

the flavor

right f

ve

cold."

sip, unable to tell

But he kept quiet.

stomach, belching out loud: "I think I'll skip? Just ate so much, I'm

shook his head, a look of "you have no idea what you're missing"

leaned in closer and asked, "Hey... Corley, did you really meet

his cup, appeared to be savoring the tea but

little sneak,

I'm all ears!

an eyebrow: "What else? You think I was

count

rim of his teacup:

"Damn! Now I get