Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Chapter 829

Grandma beamed. "What a lovely outfit! So festive! And look-Roseanne's wearing a red sweater today too. You and your sister really are on the same wavelength!"

Corley glanced over at Roseanne. She wasn't just wearing a red sweater, but had also wrapped a white scarf around her neck. The red and white looked striking together-like holly berries against fresh snow-and it was impossible not to notice her.

Grandma noticed his gaze and couldn't resist a hint of pride. "Well? Doesn't Anne look beautiful dressed like that?"

Corley nodded calmly, his expression giving nothing away. "Yeah. She looks nice."

His tone was even, as if merely echoing Grandma's words-no one could read anything into it.

He walked over to the coffee table. "Are we getting the gifts ready?"

Grandpa didn't stand on ceremony, waving him over. "Don't just stand there- come help us out."

"Sure." Corley rolled up his sleeves and crouched down beside Roseanne.

With him joining in, everything sped up considerably.

Before long, all the gifts were wrapped, ribbons scattered in a heap, replaced by a row of beautifully decorated boxes.

...

By six o'clock, night had fallen completely.

At some point, snow had started drifting down outside, flakes tumbling softly to the ground.

decked out in red and gold, warm and lively—a world apart from the

howled; inside, laughter and chatter filled

up! Dinner's almost ready!" Grandma emerged from the kitchen,

Everyone sprang into action.

and silverware were set out, chairs pulled up, wine glasses fetched- everyone doing

was placed on the table and

The doorbell rang.

first on her feet.

couldn't help frowning, muttering under her breath, "Honestly,

Year's Eve? Don't

open, and a woman's cheerful voice

"Anne, happy New Year!"

That voice...

faltered for

the visitors had already

Teague and I came to celebrate New

hair carefully styled and pinned up—she looked energetic and

was her

and packages. He followed her lead, offering a greeting. "Happy New Year, Mom.

eyes landed on Madge's face, then flickered to

a slight hesitation, the words sounding a bit awkward, but he got them out all the same.

his feet, grinning.