Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Roseanne felt a wave of tranquility wash over her, providing a stark contrast to the chaotic days after her breakup with Murray.

Back then, a mere thought of him could send her spiraling, her emotions tethered to his memory. But time, the ultimate healer, had mended her wounds, gradually erasing the pain he caused until it became a distant memory. "Do you need something?" Roseanne asked when Murray approached her.

"Can we talk somewhere else?"

"I don't think there's anything left to say between us," Roseanne replied, her tone firm.

"Murray, you can call me by my first name. We're not close enough for nicknames," she added, drawing a clear line.

Murray's face fell, his frustration palpable. Owen, who was with Roseanne, seemed to understand the situation perfectly and made a subtle move to leave, but Murray's presence was like a thick fog, refusing to clear. Roseanne knew better than to be alone with Murray, given his unpredictable nature. "We should get going," she said to Owen, who nodded in agreement.

"What are you to him, and what am I?" Murray's voice grew tense, his eyes reddening with anger that he quickly tried to suppress. "I came here to tell you that I don't accept your 'congratulations'."

Roseanne frowned, puzzled by his words.

"Unless you forgive me, I'll never become a father because my child can only be yours." he said.

Both Roseanne and Owen were speechless at Murray's baffling declaration. "Maybe you should see a doctor," Roseanne suggested dryly, eager to leave.All content is property © NôvelDrama.Org.

She and Owen quickly exited, not wanting to linger a moment longer. Once they reached her apartment building, Roseanne apologized to Owen for the awkward encounter. She felt embarrassed to have such an erratic ex.

Owen, after a brief pause, simply said, "You've been through a lot."

Later, after freshening up, Roseanne checked to ensure Murray wasn't lurking around before heading out to the market. She planned to cook lunch for Owen, needing fresh ingredients.

To her surprise, she found Owen waiting for her at the corner, freshly showered and ready to accompany her. "Thanks," she said, moved by his thoughtfulness.

They shopped together, and by late morning, they were back at Roseanne's place, preparing the meal.

Roseanne carefully cleaned the sea bass, making sure it was ready to cook, while Owen expertly took care of the vegetables and other side dishes.

For the main course, Roseanne

decided on a classic lemon and herb sea bass alongside garlic butter shrimp, ensuring both were cleaned and prepped to perfection. Owen, meanwhile, took charge of the sides, his skills in the kitchen evident as he moved with ease.

Their teamwork in the kitchen was seamless, the warmth and camaraderie between them a stark contrast to the coldness of her past with Murray. As they cooked, the aroma of fresh herbs and seafood filled the air, signifying not just the preparation of a meal, but also the start of a new chapter for Roseanne, one where past pains were replaced with the simple joys of companionship and care.