Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

As the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of fiery orange and tranquil purple, Rose and Max stood side by side on the viewing deck, sharing one last sunset together. The sun, once a full, glowing orb, gradually slipped away, leaving behind only the persistent glow of twilight.

"Let's head back, it's getting late," Rose suggested, breaking the peaceful silence.

"Sure. I'll drive you," Max replied, their eyes meeting briefly, a calm understanding reflected in both.

---

In the car, after Rose answered a call, she turned to Max. "Can you drop me off at Kingswell College? My professor needs to see me."

"Of course," Max agreed without hesitation.

As night embraced the sky, Max pulled up in front of Kingswell College. He quickly got out and walked around to open the door for Rose, a gesture of chivalry that didn't go unnoticed.

As she stepped out, Rose looked up at him, a hint of something resolute in her gaze. "I've done what I promised you. I hope you don't go back on your word this time."

to resist, reached out to hold her hand, only to find her stepping back,

my mistakes. I sincerely want

almost pleading tone. "Initially, I didn't agree to your request. But after giving it some thought, I realized there are things I need to clarify. So, I agreed." "You must understand my intention

a sinking feeling he wouldn't like

once broken, can't be mended. I hope you don't waste your time and energy on me anymore. You're a businessman; you know more

start is

the dead weight can a wound truly heal. All you need is a bit of courage and plenty of time." "We'll be

into the college grounds, leaving Max

waiting for him to look back. But not this time. She walked away without a backward glance. Max knew then he

clenched his heart, the kind

collapsed onto a nearby bench, lost in his

voice broke through his

It was Grace, the woman he had seen a few times at the