chapter765

Corley gestured for her to come in, and Roseanne gently pushed the door open.

She'd always known Corley had good taste, but the meticulous attention to detail in the room completely exceeded her expectations.

The subtle scent of mint wafted through the air-her favorite-fresh and invigorating.

The room was decorated in soft, neutral tones.

The walls were painted a warm, creamy beige, and a plush shag carpet covered the hardwood floor, giving a cozy and buoyant feel underfoot.

Knowing her love for books, Corley had thoughtfully installed extra shelves along the wall. By the window, there was a comfortable reading chair.

The soft sunlight streamed through the floor-to-ceiling window, casting a warm glow on the pages... an inviting scene she could easily imagine herself in.

There was even more-a few side tables, a cozy little sofa, and a quaint coffee station.

Pulling back the curtains revealed a private balcony with views of the sky, rolling hills, woods, and meadows-a breathtaking panorama.

"Do you like it?" Corley's voice broke her reverie.

Roseanne turned to him and nodded, "Thank you, I love it."

She turned back to the window, her voice light, "This feels so magical, like something out of a fairy tale... like Cinderella finally finding her castle."

Her tone was calm, showing she was pleased but not overwhelmed.

Corley looked at her thoughtfully. "But you're not Cinderella," he said suddenly. Roseanne raised an eyebrow, waiting for him to elaborate.

"Cinderella always waits for a prince to save her. But not you. You're strong and take control of your own destiny. More like Elsa from Frozen-brave and wise."

Roseanne chuckled, "Wow, didn't know you thought so highly of me. You must be looking through rose-colored glasses."

His smile faded, replaced by a serious tone. "Just stating the facts."

"Corley..."

"I know what you're going to say," he interrupted, his voice steady. "To you, I wear many hats your ex's best friend, a helpful ally, a cousin, a potential business partner. But never... a boyfriend."

Roseanne pressed her lips together, saying nothing.

"Aren't you curious why I like you?" Corley gazed out into the distance and continued without waiting for her response. "Some people, you meet them once, and they're unforgettable."

He turned to her, his dark eyes filled with unspoken affection.

Roseanne expected him to say more, but he didn't.

He just looked at her with an intensity that was hard to bear.

"This world has many kinds of love," Roseanne finally said. "Relationships come in all forms. Lovers may part, but family is forever. Isn't that worth something?"

Corley smiled, not disagreeing, just saying, "At least now, as your 'brother,' I can protect you without question."

"So if you ever need anything, don't hesitate. It's a brother's duty to be there for his sister."

"Alright."

Roseanne exhaled, thinking he'd accepted the role of 'brother' and moved past any unrealistic hopes.

What she didn't see, however, was

the way Corley watched her leave his gaze dark and deep,dike an endless whirlpool, filled with emotions he couldn't quite let go.

At dinner, Grandma Geneva proudly led Roseanne to the table. "These are all your favorite dishes. Your mom told me what you like; I hope they taste just right. Sit dowRand try them."

Even though Roseanne was prepared, she was still taken aback by the array of

dishes spread out before her.

Just as Grandma Geneva had said, they were all her favorites.

This was...

"A lot," she managed to say, overwhelmed.

Geneva waved a hand dismissively. "Not too much. Just a taste of each."

Roseanne was touched, playing along, "You're amazing, Grandma. Just the smell is enough to make my mouth water."

Geneva beamed, "For my precious granddaughter, this is nothing! If you like it, come over every day, and I'll cook for you."

"That's right," Neely chimed in, feigning jealousy. "Grandma hasn't cooked like this

in years. Only for you, it seems. Corley and I are just the sideshow."

Corley nodded in agreement. "I used to be her favorite, but now it looks like I've been replaced."

Geneva shooed them away, "Go on, I'm talking to my granddaughter. Come sit by me, Anne."

She pulled Roseanne to her side, effectively cutting Neely out.

Neely laughed, genuinely amused. It was just a couple of comments, but they seemed to have hit their mark.

Watching Roseanne engage with Grandma, and seeing the joy and contentment

in his wife's eyes, Neely's smile grew even wider.

Finally, the storm had passed.

The sun was shining again.