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

ever have a chance

who's the

froze, the words

ready!" Roseanne called as she returned, arms loaded with plates and

silent, a rare moment of unspoken

grandmother had cooked enough for everyone; even with Owen at the

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

meatballs are delicious-they're

a bit of everything she mentioned. He sampled every offering with such enthusiasm,

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

she likes to dip her hands in adittle vinegar-she

grinned. "Everything's delicious. I guess I came at just the right time—what a lucky

and banter, their easy rhythm making it clear there was no room for anyone else. The

the table while Owen took it upon himself

the other scrubbing away -falling into a routine

this wasn't the

frustration building. "Roseanne, I—just remembered I have something to

Roseanne replied, not thinking much of