Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed



Mamie was practically vibrating with anticipation as she handed a cookie to Roseanne. "Here, try this!"

Roseanne accepted the cookie with a polite, "Thanks."

"Well? How's the taste? Good, isn't it?"

Roseanne could almost see Mamie turning into a puppy wagging its tail, waiting for a pat on the head. "It's delicious, not too sweet."

"I knew it!" Mamie beamed, triumphant. "I've tried loads of brands, and this one's chocolate chip cookies are simply the best!"

After a moment, Mamie turned to Scales with an offer. "Want one?"

Scales shook his head, "No, thanks. Too many calories for me right now. I'm trying to keep fit."

He meant no offense, just that he was on a strict diet for the gym. But the reaction he got was unexpected.

Mamie, who was not particularly tall and quite on the plump side, looked like she'd been slapped. New guy, what's your deal? Can't we all just get along?

Thankfully, Roseanne jumped in, "Mamie, could I have another one, please?"

Mamie scooted over to Roseanne, her mood instantly lifted. "Roseanne, you're the best."

Scales was left confused.

Soon, the pack of cookies was empty, with Roseanne having three and the rest devoured by Mamie. It was clear why Mamie was always so cheerful and hearty.

Just then, Madeleine returned, carrying their student IDs and meal cards. "It's 5:30. How about we head to the cafeteria for dinner?" The group agreed without hesitation.

...

The cafeteria was bustling, so they settled for a variety of dishes. The fifth floor had private rooms with large round tables that could fit more than a dozen people.

Knowing Mamie came from a place with a sweet tooth, Roseanne carefully picked a dish that would cater to her preference. Mamie's eyes sparkled with gratitude.Property belongs to Nôvel(D)r/ama.Org.

Scales wasn't much of a talker and

never expressed any strong preferences, so Roseanne didn't put much effort into catering to his likes or dislikes. But she made sure to include a couple of Madeleine's favorites - a balanced meat that catered to everyone.

After dinner, Madeleine insisted on paying. No one objected.

As they were leaving, they bumped into another group. Edna was at the center, surrounded by students, her laughter carrying across the hallway.

Upon seeing Madeleine, Edna's smile briefly faltered before she regained her composure. "Madeleine, treating the students to dinner?"

Madeleine responded with a noncommittal hum.

"The word is you've stopped taking on new students?"

It was true, and Madeleine saw no point in denying it.

"That's such a shame. Students are like the spring shoots; they need to keep coming to keep the garden alive. Now, you've only got these three and no plans for more.at's like leaving the field barren."

Edna's tone was almost mocking as she introduced her five new students - Sybil, Arkle, Slater, Hertha, and Grace. "We're all in the same faculty, and it's always good to get acquainted early on."

Mamie inhaled sharply, attracting Roseanne's concern. "What's wrong?"

In this adaptation, traditional

Chinese elements were replaced with more Western cultural references, such as the choice of chocolate chip cookies as a snack, and the setting was adjusted to fit a Western academic and social environment.