Her eyes then widened. Are you saying that you are a Raider? He nodded. Oh, wow! she said, looking impressed. It must be dangerous. He smiled again. It can be pretty demanding at times. Can I ask you something else? she asked. He glanced over at her, a small smile tugging at his lips. Your family. Are your brothers in the military, too? Zach chuckled softly, rubbing the back of his neck. Yeah, they are. The military isnt just a job in my family. It is practically a legacy. My dad was a Marine. He was a hardass, but in the best way. Taught us what it means to serve something bigger than ourselves. Chantel leaned forward, her elbows resting on her knees. Thats amazing. So, Justin, Ethan, and Bear are Marines too? Justin and Ethan are both Marine Raiders, like me. Weve been in some of the same units over the years, which is rare but pretty cool. Theyre both solid operators. They are dedicated and dependable. Everything youd expect from Raiders. She tilted her head, her interest piqued. And Bear? Zach smirked. Nope, Bear decided to blaze his own trail. Hes a Navy SEAL. Hes one of the best SEALs out there. He is hard as nails, but hes got a soft spot when it comes to his wife and kids. Joker is a SEAL, too. He and Bear serve on the same team. Chantel sat back, clearly impressed. Thats incredible. Zach chuckled. But its not just us guys. My sister is no slouch either. Chantels eyebrows shot up. Clover? Is she in the military, too? She was, Zach said, his voice filled with pride. Clovers was a Marine as well. She wasnt just any Marine, though. She was a helicopter pilot for the presidents Situational Combat Squadron. Seriously? Chantel said, her mouth slightly agape. Seriously, Zach said with a grin. Shes a badass. But now shes traded all that for flying helicopters for a private security company in Virginia Beach. Keeps her close to Joker. Chantel shook her head in amazement. Your whole family is like a real-life action movie. Youre all so accomplished and so brave. Zach shrugged, feeling a warmth spread through his chest at her genuine admiration. Its just what we do. Its not easy, and weve all sacrificed a lot, but its worth it. Serving is part of who we are. My dad always said, If youre given much, you give back more. I guess that stuck with all of us. Chantels gaze softened. I dont think people realize how much you and your family sacrifice. Not just in terms of time and danger, but your lives, your connections, and the things you have to miss out on. Her words struck a chord. Zach looked at her, seeing the sincerity in her eyes, and nodded. Yeah, its not easy. But when you believe in what youre doing, you find a way to handle it. Even if it means leaning on each other when things get tough. Chantel smiled softly. Well, I have so much respect for you all. And gratitude. It takes a special kind of person to do what you do. Zach felt his chest tighten at her words. She wasnt just being polite. Zach could tell that she meant every word. Thanks, Chantel, he said quietly. That means a lot. For a moment, they sat in silence, the sounds of crickets and the distant hum of the house behind them filling the air. Zach watched her out of the corner of his eye, the admiration shed just expressed swirling in his mind. Something about her presence made him feel more grounded, more seen. Can I ask you a personal question? She asked, looking up at him with her green eyes that sparkled. Why dont you have a girlfriend or a significant other? He chuckled. I had a girlfriend right out of high school, but she broke up with me when the whole military thing became too much. After that, I guess I decided not to risk it again. Chantel nodded thoughtfully. Im sure military life isnt easy for either person in the relationship, especially in your position. 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.