Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed novel Chapter 540

Owen's gaze flickered darkly, a shadow of intrigue crossing his features.

Corley chuckled, "Heard Mr. Reynolds has been up to his ears in work, spending most of his days cooped up in the lab. Quite the surprise to see you back early today."

"Heard?" Owen retorted coolly, "Heard from whom?"

Today, he had a lecture, one he was guest lecturing for the Life Sciences Department, yet only Mamie and Scales showed up in class.

Upon inquiring, he learned that Roseanne had taken a leave of absence.

The lab was indeed demanding, consuming his afternoons post-lunch in the cafeteria, leaving him seldom returning home at this hour.

But today was an exception...

With a smirk, Corley responded, "Well, Anne was the one who mentioned it."

His expression unreadable, Owen remarked, "Did Anne also mention that parking is forbidden down the alley?"

"No worries, I'm leaving right now." Corley quipped, revving up his car and driving away.

A moment of realization struck Corley as he distanced himself.

Wait a minute...

Did Owen just call her "Anne"?

...

As Owen watched the car disappear into the distance, he turned, heading upstairs, his jaw clenched tight, his eyes cool.

Reaching the seventh floor, he didn't immediately enter his apartment. Instead, he knocked on the neighboring door.

"Roseanne, you there?"

After a brief pause, a voice responded, "Yes, Professor."

The door opened from the inside.

Owen surveyed her, "Everything alright?"

"Uh?" Roseanne was taken aback.

"I noticed you weren't in class today. The counselor mentioned you had taken leave."

"Yes. Had some matters to attend to."

"Related to the lab needing adjustments?"

"Right." Roseanne nodded lightly.

"How's it coming along?"

She offered a small smile, "Just one last step to go."

"Need any help?"

"No, that's fine."

Corley had a point; unless Murray volunteered, nobody could force his hand.

Owen's gaze flickered subtly, "Ran into Corley down the alley."