Uh-oh, Joe replied, his tone half-joking. What kind of favor? I need you to find someone for me. Mario glanced back at the notepad, the list of cities etched into his mind. Chantel.Shes gone off the grid. I think shes in one of a few places, but I need to be sure. There was a pause on the other end of the line. Youre serious? Dead serious, Mario said, his voice low. I need to find her. As soon as possible. Alright, Joe said, his tone shifting to something more professional. Send me whatever youve got. Ill start digging. Thanks, man. Mario hung up and placed the phone on the counter, staring at the pad of paper again. Run all you want, Chantel, he muttered. But Ill find you. Chapter Eight After dinner, Chantel stood on the back porch. Her hands were wrapped around a steaming mug of coffee. The crisp November air bit at her cheeks, but she didnt mind. Dinner with Zachs family had been enjoyable. Everyone kept the conversation light. There was no mention of her situation back home, which she felt was Zachs doing, and she was grateful for it. His family seemed really close, which she envied. They had shared family stories, making her feel completely at home. Chantel turned her attention back to the area surrounding the Walkers home. It was peaceful here. Beyond the porch stretched a sprawling backyard. An in-ground pool sat at the center, its surface now covered with a sturdy tarp for the season. She could imagine it in the summer with kids splashing, adults lounging with drinks in hand, and the flower beds surrounding the pool bursting with color. Zachs mom clearly had a green thumb. Even in late autumn, the neatly trimmed bushes and perfectly arranged planters hinted at her touch. Chantel took a sip of her coffee, savoring the quiet, but her peace was short-lived. Her phone buzzed on the porch railing where shed left it, Marios name lighting up the screen. Not again.She thought to herself. She hesitated, her fingers hovering over the device. She wasnt ready to deal with him yet. She let it go to voicemail, her stomach twisting with unease. A minute later, the phone beeped, letting her know she had a message waiting. She set her coffee down and picked up thephone. Hitting play, she listened to the message. Marios voice came through, tight with frustration and anger. Chantel, its me. Look, I get ityoure mad. Youve got every reason to be. But this is ridiculous. Its been two days, Chantel. Two fucking days you havent shown up to work, and I dont know what kind of point youre trying to prove, but its childish. You have responsibilities, and people are counting on you. Im counting on you. If you dont call me back, Ill have no choice but to come looking for you. And believe me, Ive got plenty of ways to find you. You cant hide forever. The message ended, leaving Chantel clutching the phone in a grip so tight her knuckles turned white. His words sent a shiver down her spine, but she shook it off. Mario wasnt scary. He was just desperate. He could threaten all he wanted, but she wasnt going to let him bulldoze her into submission. Still, she couldnt ignore the restaurant. So far, Ivan had managed with her backup recipes, but Thanksgiving was a whole different beast. During the drive earlier in the day, she had scoured the internet for simple, crowd-pleasing recipes that Ivan and the team could handle. Tomorrow, shed call Brian and tell him everything. She sighed, staring out at the yard again as she let the chilly air ground her. Lost in thought? Chantel jumped, nearly spilling her coffee as Zach appeared behind her. His grin was boyish, his eyes warm, but she swatted at him playfully. Do you always sneak up on people like that? she asked, her voice half-scolding, half-amused. Only when they look like theyre overthinking, he teased, stepping onto the porch beside her. He glanced at her phone. Was that him again? Yeah, Chantel admitted, tucking the device into her pocket. He left a voicemail. Hes angry. Said hell come looking for me if I dont call him back. Zachs easygoing demeanor shifted, his jaw tightening. He threatened you? She shook her head quickly. No, not really. Marios all bark and no bite. Hes just panicking. Zach didnt look convinced. Still, it doesnt sit right with me. You okay? The concern in his voice made her heart squeeze. Ill be okay, she said softly. It just still hurts. But being here helps. In the latest episode of ReelTalk EP 37, titled "Confessions of a Casting Director" by CrushReel, dive into the behind-the-scenes world of bringing your favorite stars to the big screen. Casting Directors reveal the intricate process of selecting actors for roles and share insights into what they seek in fresh talent. Explore the nuanced themes and character elements that shape the casting decisions, shedding light on the unique aspects that influence the final choices. Discover the artistry and expertise involved in assembling the perfect ensemble to breathe life into each character on screen. What sets this episode apart is its candid exploration of the casting process, offering a rare glimpse into the meticulous craft of matching actors to roles. Uncover the passion and dedication that drive Casting Directors in their quest to create captivating performances. For an exclusive look into the world of casting and to learn more about this ongoing series, head over to CrushReel. Experience firsthand the magic of bringing characters from script to screen by delving into "Confessions of a Casting Director," available to read online at CrushReel.