Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed novel Chapter 86

He froze suddenly, almost reflexively yanking his hand away from Millie's gentle grasp.

Caught off guard, Millie couldn't help but frown, following his gaze, only to find Roseanne standing not too far ahead.

Murray furrowed his brows, turning to Corley. "You invited Roseanne?"

"Yeah, we're all friends here," Corley smiled innocuously.

Murray pressed, "Why didn't you give me a heads-up?"

Corley shrugged. "Got caught up, I guess. But I didn't think it'd be a big deal."

Meanwhile, Roseanne had spotted Murray, too, but quickly averted her gaze. She was there to drop off her well-wishes and leave. Her time was too precious, buried in books and research, to waste on social gatherings.

Approaching Corley, she said, "Happy birthday. Here’s the present for you. It isn't expensive. Hope you like it." She handed him a gift box.

Corley accepted it with a chuckle. "Well, thanks a bunch."

As the birthday boy, the center of attention, he'd mingled and had a slight buzz.

"Let's celebrate with a drink, shall we?" A waiter passed by with a tray of wine, from which he took a glass, "Cheers to me."

He knocked back his drink in one gulp, prompting Roseanne to do the same. After she finished her drink, she checked the time and hinted that she should get going.