Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Chapter 820

"My feelings are honest and out in the open-there's nothing shameful about them. Why shouldn't I admit it?" Owen Reynolds's gaze was clear and unwavering, his words simple and direct.

Corley stared at him, hands clenched tight. For the first time, he felt the sting of defeat.

"Does Roseanne know?" he asked quietly.

Owen didn't bother to hide anything. "I tried to tell her. Tested the waters, you could say. She told me she's not interested in relationships right now-her studies come first."

Corley let out a short laugh. "So she turned you down?"

"Not exactly." Owen caught sight of the smirk on Corley's lips but remained calm. "I never actually confessed. Not officially."

Corley's smile grew broader, almost mocking.

Owen frowned. "What's so funny?"

"You. You're hilarious."

"Is that so?" Owen's tone was cool and matter-of-fact. "Just because I don't have

a chance now doesn't mean I won't later. You, on the other hand-now or in the

have a chance

who's

froze, the words

she returned, arms

rare moment of unspoken agreement

at the table, there was more than enough

in, Roseanne smiled and gestured toward the dishes. "Professor, please, help yourself! My grandma made everything from scratch. You have to try the roast pork with honey glaze,

and the meatballs are delicious-they're stuffed with mushrooms and minced

a bit of everything she mentioned. He sampled every offering with such enthusiasm, he could've been crowned the

is rich and flavorful, but not overwhelming-it's really impressive. And these meatballs, the mushrooms inside are so fresh, and is that

have quite the palate! When my grandma rolls the meatballs, she likes to dip her hands in adittle vinegar-she says it

came at just the right time—what a lucky

rhythm making it clear there

started clearing the table while Owen took it upon

two moved in sync-one tidying up, the other scrubbing away -falling into a routine that

It was obvious this wasn't the first

jaw tightened, frustration building. "Roseanne, I—just remembered I have something to finish up at

replied, not thinking much of it. "Drive safe, okay?" Corley