Her hand brushed over the letters shed written, carefully placed on the nightstand. She knew she couldnt say goodbye in person, but at least they would know how much this time had meant to her. Taking one last look around, she grabbed her bags before steeling herself and closing the door behind her. ??? As Zach sat at the dining table, he couldnt shake the thoughts running through his mind. Chantel had been quiet all morning, and though shed smiled at him when he thanked her for everything, something seemed off. He couldnt put his finger on it. Shed been so vibrant last night, laughing and engaging with everyone, but then suddenly disappeared, claiming she wasnt feeling well. Then, today, she was like a ghost of that energy. Looking down at the beautifully prepared meal spread across the table, Zachs chest tightened with appreciation. Chantel had put her heart into every dish, from the herb-roasted turkey to the decadent stuffing, and it showed. The food looked and tasted amazing. Hed sampled a bit of everything when she was prepping, and each bite had been a reminder of why he was so drawn to her. She was talented, caring, and strong, and just beautiful. Inside and out. As if summoned by his thoughts, Chantel entered the dining room with the last of the serving platters, carefully setting it on the table. She moved gracefully, her face a mixture of pride and humility as his mom and dad immediately praised her. Chantel, we cant thank you enough, his mom said with a warm smile. Youve made this day truly special for all of us. His dad chimed in, nodding appreciatively. Couldnt have said it better myself. This is a Thanksgiving feast like weve never had before, and its all thanks to you. For a moment, Zach saw Chantels eyes glisten, and he thought she might shed a tear. She looked both touched and embarrassed by the attention, casting her gaze down with a soft smile. Zach pulled out the empty chair beside him, patting the seat with a grin. Come on, Chantel. Take a seat. Youve more than earned it. But she shook her head politely, looking at everyone as she said, Thank you so much, really. But I need a few more minutes in the kitchen. Please, go ahead and start without me. Zachs heart dropped just a bit, sensing there was more to her excuse than met the eye. His gaze flicked to Clover, who was watching Chantel with a slight frown. Shed noticed it, too. Something wasnt right. He wondered if her ex had contacted her again. The thought made him clench his jaw. He wasntabout to let anyone interfere, especially not some guy whod taken her for granted. Ill talk to her after dinner,he told himself, pushing aside the growing feeling of unease. Everyone filled their plates and dove into the meal, the conversation flowing with a mix of laughter and praise. The food was delicious, even better than hed anticipated. Bear, Jocelyn, and their kids were raving about the spread, and even the kids were eating things they usually wouldnt touch. This stuffing is unreal, Bear said, shaking his head. Zach, you might need to make sure she cooks for every family gathering from now on. Agreed, his dad said, grinning as he took another bite. The table erupted in agreement, including his mom, and Zach couldnt help but feel a swell of pride. Chantel had done all of this, making their holiday unforgettable. Zachs mom suddenly looked around, brow furrowing. I wonder if shes alright. Shes been gone for quite a while, and she hasnt even had a chance to sit down and eat. Before Zach could respond, Clover was already rising to her feet. Ill go check on her, she said, her tone light but her face showing traces of worry. As Clover left, a strange feeling twisted in Zachs stomach. He couldnt explain it, but something about this didnt sit right with him. Moments later, Clover hurried back into the dining room, her face unusually tense. Her eyes darted from one family member to the next before finally landing on him. Joker, her boyfriend, was the first to jump up, his hand resting on her shoulder as he asked, Hey, you alright? Clover shook her head, her gaze still fixed on Zach. She took a deep breath. Chantel left. The words hit him like a punch to the gut, and for a moment, he just stared at her, not fully processing. What do you mean she left? It means exactly what it sounds like, Clover said, her voice soft but firm. Shes gone. Her stuff is gone. Zachs heart plummeted as a chorus of questions rose around the table, everyone asking what happened, where she mightve gone, and why she would leave so suddenly. Clover raised her hands, gesturing for them all to quiet down. She left this for you, Clover said, extending an envelope toward him. Zach felt his throat tighten as he looked at the envelope, his name written in Chantels neat, graceful handwriting. He wasnt sure he even wanted to touch it. Something about seeing that envelope made this all too real, and he suddenly dreaded reading the words inside. But he took it from Clover, slowly slid his finger under the flap, and pulled out the folded paper. Dear Zach, Im sorry for leaving without saying goodbye. I didnt mean to disappear like this, but I couldnt bring myself to say it face-to-face. Please know that Im grateful for the time we had, and spending Thanksgiving with you and your family is something Ill carry with me for the rest of my life. Your family welcomed me in as if theyd known me forever, and you… well, you gave me a place to feel whole again, even if only for a few days. I dont know how to thank you for that. 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.