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

really, who's the joke

froze, the words

returned,

men fell instantly silent, a rare moment of unspoken agreement passing

Owen at the

settled in, Roseanne smiled and gestured toward the dishes. "Professor, please, help yourself! My grandma made

delicious-they're stuffed with mushrooms

introduced each dish, taking a bit of everything she mentioned. He sampled every offering with such enthusiasm, he could've been crowned the "king

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

widened. "Professor, you have quite the palate! When my grandma rolls the meatballs, she likes to dip

grinned. "Everything's delicious. I guess I came at

of them trade smiles and banter, their easy rhythm making it clear there was no room for anyone else. The realization hit

Owen took

two moved in sync-one tidying up, the other scrubbing

wasn't blind. It was obvious this wasn't the first time

building. "Roseanne, I—just remembered I have something to finish up at the office. I

replied, not thinking much of it. "Drive safe,