Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Liz's disinterest was so palpable she didn't even bother to hide it.

The group hadn't expected her to be so unsupportive, and the atmosphere turned awkward in an instant.

A subtle glance floated her way, and Sammy, bracing himself, stepped in to smooth things over. He said to Liz, "Come on, Liz, I've already told you I'd have the lab results by tomorrow morning at the latest. We've all got some free time for once, why not enjoy a meal together and relax a bit?"

"And let's be honest, it's not every day Mr. Reynolds takes time out of his packed schedule to treat us. You can't just ignore that kind of gesture, right?"

Liz was still hesitant, but at his final words, she bit her lip, glanced up, and saw Owen's handsome, indifferent face. He looked as if he was above worldly concerns, yet undeniably captivating.

Eventually, Liz caved in, "Alright then, I don't want to spoil the fun."

Sammy breathed a sigh of relief but felt a twinge of disappointment too.

Liz was notoriously hard to please, and it seemed only Owen could sway her.

The group changed into casual wear and headed to the restaurant.

The chosen spot was a hip, trendy steakhouse known for its fiery BBQ ribs, which had raving reviews on a popular app.

Jen, being a big fan of spicy food, was more than satisfied with the venue.

Sammy, ever the lively one, especially since the lab had few young women, warmly encouraged Roseanne, "Feel free to order anything, Roseanne. Don't hold back, Mr. Reynolds is picking up the tab and he's all about going big. Enjoy yourself."

Jen chuckled, half-jokingly saying, "Usually, take whatever Sammy says with a grain of salt, but tonight, he's actually speaking the gospel truth."

Sammy retorted, "...Jen, can't you let me save face for once? Well said, but let's not repeat that."

His playful tone immediately livened up the mood.

Roseanne couldn't help but smile at Sammy's antics.

Only Liz remained silent, her beautiful face set in a cold expression as if the world owed her a fortune.

Sammy quickly handed the menu to

Venet

Liz, "Didn't you mention wanting something light because of your stomach? This dish isn't spicy how about this one? I also ordered your favorite, the BBQ ribs. They're the best here, give it a try..."

"You're so annoying, I can order for myself..." Liz frowned in irritation, but eventually, she didn't refuse.

Sammy seemed immune to her attitude by now, cheerfully closed the menu, and continued the conversation with everyone else. Roseanne sipped her drink, finding its tartness perfectly to her liking.

Sitting beside her, Jen leaned in to gossip quietly, "Sammy's been after Liz for years, pretty obvious, right?" Roseanne wasn't much for gossip, but she nodded in agreement since Jen brought it up, "Yeah, it's noticeable."Content held by NôvelDrama.Org.

"Our lab could really use some good

news.

make wonder if those two will

By the way, Roseanne

you have a boyfriend?"

do

The conversation, somehow, shifted to Roseanne, her voice moderate, ensuring Owen nearby caught every word without effort.

"No."

Jen was surprised, such a catch, and still single?

She loved a good piece of gossip, true, but digging into personal matters wasn't her style. Seeing Roseanne's reluctance to discuss further, she didn't pursue it and smoothly changed the subject.