An epilogue for "Winter Roses". After a day of triumph and tragedy, hearts are in need of healing.

Recipe for disaster: Start with two parts stubbornness and combine fierce protectiveness and denial with burgeoning independence and petulance. Mix in fear and guilt; let simmer, stirring the pot frequently. Toss in jealousy plus a severe case of wrong place/wrong time; bring everything to a boil. Serve with angst and h/c.