Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Owen could see the gratitude in her eyes- a simple but profound 'thank you."

...

At 8 PM, Owen invited everyone out for a late-night snack.

"This barbecue spot is both affordable and delicious. Roseanne, you absolutely must try their signature blazing beef skewers. I'll order a bunch for you," Jen said with enthusiasm as soon as they were seated.

Stoddard took the seat to Roseanne's left, immediately pouring her a glass of iced tea. "It's sweltering tonight, easy to get overheated. Have some tea first. Oh, and you've got to try the pickles-they're a fantastic appetizer. Want some?" Roseanne was taken aback by their sudden warmth, guessing they might feel they had wronged her and were looking to make amends, which left her in a bittersweet mood.

Liz watched the scene unfold with lips pressed tighter and tighter.

She used to be the one everyone took care of. But ever since Roseanne arrived, Liz had watched as everyone gradually shifted their attention towards her, feeling powerless to stop it...

"I need some air," she said abruptly, standing to leave.

Sammy noticed Liz's mood and excused himself shortly after.

The alley nearby, known on social media for its quaint charm, was adorned with string lights that created a magical atmosphere. Liz wandered through it aimlessly, with Sammy discreetly following behind.

Hearing footsteps, Liz turned around irritably, "How long are you going to follow me? Is it so wrong to want some fresh air?"

Sammy paused for a moment before lifting his gaze, "Liz, did you really lose your data?"

Her eyes flickered, "What do you mean by that?"

"We've been leaving the lab right after work these days. When would you have had the time to finish that experiment, let alone the data?"

"Sammy, what are you trying to say?" Her voice rose, tinged with anger.

"I'm saying, you're a good person, and shouldn't... do such things."

Liz bit her lip, her voice breaking slightly, "You think I did it?"

"The data was mine. Why would I risk not finishing my thesis over something that hurts others and benefits no one?"

"So, I just don't get what you were thinking," Sammy said, his gaze intense as if trying to see into her soul.

Liz instinctively looked away, "I'm the victim here. Instead of helping me find who really deleted the data, you're here accusing me..."

Seeing her defensive stance,Content rights belong to NôvelDrama.Org.

Sammy frowned, "Even though 10 stepped up and took the blame, you know best whether I used your computer. I just want you to tell me the truth."

Confronted by his questioning, Liz's frustration boiled over, "So what if it was me? Let's say I did it. Are you going to report me? Fine, go ahead, do it now! I don't need your pity or to carry the blame for me!"

Sammy was stunned, then said softly, "Why?"

"Before she came along, everything came in the lab was fine. As soon as Roseanne showed up, everything changed. Mr. Reynolds, Jen, Mr. Stoddard, and even you, all you see is Roseanne. She's perfect in every way, always outstanding!"

"Roseanne, Roseanne, Roseanne! I'm sick of hearing that name. I just wanted things to go back to the way they were. Is that so wrong?"

Liz had been relatively calm, but as she spoke, her pent-up emotions burst forth like a dam breaking, uncontrollable and fierce.

Seeing her like a wounded animal, Sammy's heart softened, and he blurted out, "Liz, I like you. Will you be my girlfriend?"