For a moment, he hesitated, then asked, Would it be hard for you? Dating someone in the military, I mean? She blinked, surprised by the question. Honestly? Itd depend. If both people truly love, respect, and care for each other, I think they would find a way to make it work. But it would take an effort from both sides. Zach stared at her, impressed. There was a quiet conviction in her voice that tugged at something deep inside him. They fell into a comfortable silence, the crackling fire filling the space between them. To his surprise, Chantel shifted closer and leaned her head on his shoulder. Without thinking, Zach wrapped an arm around her, his fingers brushing over the blanket she had pulled around herself. She was asleep before he could say anything. Zach smiled to himself, leaning his cheek against the top of her head. Sweet dreams, Chantel, he murmured, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. At that moment, he realized just how much he didnt want her to leave. Chapter Fourteen Mario sat at his favorite corner booth in his restaurant, nursing a shot of whiskey and staring at his phone. The usual warmth of the bustling kitchen and the familiar scent of garlic and marinara brought no comfort tonight. The screen showed a string of unanswered texts and missed calls to Chantel. Still nothing? Brian asked, sliding into the seat across from him with a clipboard of menu notes. Mario shook his head, a frustrated sigh escaping his lips. Not a damn word. Its been three days now. Maybe she just needs space, Brian offered. Space? Marios voice edged into anger. She took off without saying a word. No call, no text, nothing! And Im supposed to just sit here and act like everythings fine? Brian raised his hands in surrender. Fair enough. At least Ivan and I figured out a menu for this week. Customers are already asking for the mushroom risotto, by the way. Mario tossed back the whiskey, the burn doing little to dull the knot of frustration in his chest. Brian didnt reply. He wisely excused himself and went back to the kitchen. Mario was still stewing when his phone vibrated on the table. He grabbed it without looking, almost barking into the receiver. Yeah? Well, dont you sound testy, came Joes familiar accented voice. Mario straightened and got straight to the point. Tell me youve got something. Joe chuckled. Impatient as ever, huh? Yeah, Ive got something. Chantel booked a plane ticket to Knoxville, Tennessee, and booked a hotel in Gatlinburg. Gatlinburg? Mario repeated, disbelief coloring his tone. He knew that was one of the places she had listed on that piece of paper, but what was in Gatlinburg? What the hell is she doing there? Joe snorted. Maybe she wanted a mountain getaway. Either way, thats where she is. Mario rubbed his temple, trying to connect the dots. Gatlinburg wasnt exactly the kind of place hed picture Chantel running off to. Why there? Thanks, Joe, Mario said finally. Youve been a huge help. Ill have money wired to you. Good luck, and let me know if you need anything else. Mario hung up, staring at his phone for a moment before setting it down with a decisive clink. Enough was enough. If she wasnt going to come back on her own, then he was going to get her. He was done waiting around. He pulled out his phone, brought up a browser, and typed flights to Knoxville. Within minutes, hed booked a ticket for the following day. Gatlinburg, huh? Mario muttered to himself, setting his phone down and pouring another shot of whiskey. Youve got some explaining to do, Chantel. 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.