Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed novel Chapter 290

Roseanne just never thought that the cousin Leda mentioned—the one they hardly ever talk to and kind of drifted apart from—would actually care so much about her.

True, Owen might come off as detached and aloof, but Roseanne knew better. It wasn't a lack of care, but a lack of time that kept his affections from being voiced.

Deep down, his heart was softer than most...

"If something like today happens again, feel free to hit me up anytime."

He paused, glancing sideways with a meaningful look, "Alcohol stimulates the nervous system, leading to symptoms like nausea and vomiting, or even shock and unconsciousness in severe cases. So, it's wise to drink less. Don't you think?"

Roseanne blushed, her cheeks and the tips of her ears turning a soft pink, knowing he was hinting at her. She cleared her throat, defending herself, "Though alcohol has its downsides, it can also offer a temporary escape from troubles. Letting loose occasionally could be a way to vent, right?"

Owen chuckled, not expecting her to not only counter but to throw his question back at him.

"There are plenty of ways to vent. Does it have to be through drinking?"

"Cough... Well, to each their own. Maybe some people prefer it?"

Owen stopped in his tracks and turned to face her, "Do you like it?"

Caught off guard by his intense gaze, Roseanne instinctively looked away, shaking her head, "No."

Even when Murray had hurt her deeply in the past, she never resorted to drinking her sorrows away.

She knew running wasn't a solution.

And she feared the loss of control, the drunken disarray.

Owen's smile grew, "No wonder her mom worries about Leda leading you astray."

Roseanne was puzzled.

"If you ever feel like drinking someday, you can call me."

"To call you for cleaning up my mess?" she couldn't help but laugh.

Owen nodded and then shook his head, "That, and maybe I could join you for a drink."

Roseanne blinked, "You? Drink with me?"