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

who's

the words hitting

Roseanne called as she returned,

two men fell instantly silent, a rare moment

at the table, there was more

"Professor, please, help yourself! My grandma made everything from scratch. You have to try the roast pork with honey glaze, and these

are delicious-they're stuffed with mushrooms

mentioned. He sampled every offering with such enthusiasm, he could've been crowned the "king of

overwhelming-it's really impressive. And these meatballs, the mushrooms inside are so fresh, and

the meatballs, she likes to dip her hands in adittle vinegar-she says it makes the flavor more

at just the

banter, their easy rhythm making it

clearing the table while Owen took it

up, the other scrubbing away -falling into a routine that needed no

It was obvious this wasn't the first time they'd worked

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

of it. "Drive