Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

"We won't accept any gifts. First, it's not right to take something for nothing. We're not family, and regardless of the value, it's just not appropriate." "Second, your relationship with Roseanne is over. Now, you're just a stranger to us, and we have even less reason to accept anything from you."

The only meeting they had involved Madge and Norris waiting in the diner for nearly half an hour for him.

Murray showed up empty-handed, muttered a quick "hi", and then buried his head in his meal.

He barely initiated any conversation throughout the entire meeting. At that moment, only one thought crossed Madge's mind-

"A square peg in a round hole."

This man was clearly not the right match for her daughter. But Roseanne was infatuated, making excuses for his abrupt departure after claiming he had something urgent to attend to. Madge didn't say a word, but her heart ached-for her daughter's concessions and even more for her not being respected by the man she loved.

No matter what, Murray's behavior towards them was a clear sign of disrespect!

How's a guy who doesn't even respect your folks going to respect you any more?

As a mother, Madge arrived hopeful but left worried.

Sure, she could have explained all this to Roseanne, even insisting that they were not suitable and must break up.

But Madge didn't. She knew that unless Roseanne saw this relationship through to its bitter end, she would always regret and pine for what might have been.

to let go.

hadn't expected was that letting go would lead to her daughter giving

price was just

the past now. Roseanne has started a new life. If you still feel a bit sorry

wasn't one for arguments or noise,

tone carried such harsh

slightly: "Mrs.

heard the commotion and came out, his expression suddenly turning

you

"Mr. Cole..."

no chance: "We know all about you and Anne. Since it's over, let's just go

of the couple, they

lowered his gaze, lips pressed tightly: "...Sorry for

bumped into Owen,

eyes met,

swirled with hidden

they passed each other, Murray heard Norris' warm greeting

you're back? I

you, you know. You could have just emailed them, but you went to the

trouble. I remember you mentioned, Mr. Cole, that despite the convenience of digital documents, you still prefer reading on paper. I was going to give them to you directly, but