Chapter 3 The Show Begins Annie's words were tough , but her darting eyes betrayed the truth in her heart . 53 % Finished Rosalie let out a cold laugh . " Since you despise those so - called worthless trinkets I gave you , then return them to me . I'll gladly take them back . " " Rosalie , are you insane ? " Annie's face changed instantly . Those clothes , handbags , shoes , and pieces of jewelry Rosalie had given her were worth at least five or six million . She'd be crazy to return them . " Whoever takes back gifts once they've been given ? Besides , haven't I sacrificed enough to be by your side these past years ? Those things are what I deserve . Don't act like you were doing me some favor . I've paid my share too ! " Annie groaned , clutching her sore back as she struggled to get up from the floor . " What happened today - I admit I didn't think it through . But don't take it the wrong way . I've always been on your side , thinking for you . If you didn't like it , fine , I won't do it again . There's no need to ruin our friendship over something so small . " She forced a smile . " And ... is your depression acting up again ? After the show is done , let me go with you to see a doctor , all right ? I'll head out now , so I don't disturb your recording . " Without waiting for a reply , Annie rushed out , clutching her aching body , terrified Rosalie would press the matter further . Rosalie frowned , her gaze cold as she watched Annie's retreating figure , but she didn't stop her . From the corner , two small boys peeked out , their disappointment plain . Especially Alex- His once round , soft face was now clouded with disgust , hatred , and bitter disappointment . " I really thought she'd finally seen through that witch and cut ties with her for good . But this ? " Alex stomped his foot in frustration . " It's my fault for being so stupid , for expecting anything from her . I'll never trust her again . To her , we're just the little bastards who ruined her life . " By the end , his voice trembled with grievance . Holden's face tightened further , his black eyes like ice as they stared at Rosalie . " Mrs. Xavian , " a servant suddenly hurried upstairs . " There's a film crew outside . They say they're from Mama vs. Mayhem and that they've already arranged this with you . They're asking to come in ." " So soon ? " Rosalie's heart lurched . She hadn't even properly met the children , and now she was supposed to appear on camera with them ? Her role as a doting mother was about to collapse before it had even started . The servant asked carefully , " Should we let them in , ma'am ? " " Let them in , " Rosalie said heavily , already calculating how much she could slack off . " Have the butler inform the other four members of the household , especially the younger two . I'll go change first . " 16:36 Wed , Sep 17 Chapter 3 The Show Begins 53 % Finished Annie had dragged her straight out of bed earlier , so she was still in a silk slip dress , barefoot , hair tousled into messy waves . It was sexy , yes - but far from suitable for national television . She also wanted to check her accounts and see exactly how much money she had . She turned decisively and left . From their hiding spot , the two boys blinked in confusion . " She's not coming to find us ? " Alex whispered . " She wants to go on the show alone ? " His eyes went wide . He had begged for this show . Pestered Daddy and Holden until they agreed . He thought Mommy would use the chance to please them , to coax them into being on her side , at least for the cameras . He'd woken up at six that morning , ready to be spoiled . Instead of Mommy , he got the witch . And when Mommy finally came back ? She just went upstairs to get dressed , as if nothing else mattered . Didn't she care if they refused to show up on camera ? Alex's head spun with questions . " Holden , why is she acting so differently ? Should we even join the show ? " Holden's face was hard , his black eyes steady on the direction Rosalie had gone . " We're joining . Don't worry -she's more nervous than we are . " He leaned close , his voice cold . " If she dares treat us the same way she used to on camera , then we'll cut her off completely . We don't need that kind of mother . " Alex hesitated . " But then ... we won't have a mommy at all . " " What use is a mother who doesn't care about us ? Does she tuck you in ? Feed you ? Take care of you when you're sick ? Protect you when you're bullied ? No. All she's ever done is hit us and yell at us . A mother like that is worse than none at all . You'll listen to me on this - or I won't look after you anymore . " Holden's tone was sharp , merciless . Alex faltered , then gave in . Between a mother who didn't love him and the brother who always did , he chose Holden . Rosalie had no idea this show was her last chance in their hearts . Back in her room , she checked her bank account first . A long string of zeroes calmed her instantly . She had the resources to slack if she wanted . Next , she stepped into the bathroom and stared at the face in the mirror . It was nearly perfect . Even without makeup , her features were luminous . Tall and shapely , bright eyes with a teasing tilt , lips full , youthful skin untouched by hardship . 16:36 Wed , Sep Chapter 3 The Show Begins She looked just like herself before transmigrating - only fresher , younger , untouched by life's wear . Money , youth , beauty . She had it all . She decided to play up her youth - reclaim what she'd lost . 3.53 % Finished She braided her thick hair into two playful plaits , then pulled on a fitted , cropped white T - shirt with high- waisted , wide - leg jeans and white sneakers . Her slim waist flashed with every step - youthful yet sensual . Satisfied with her look , she started for the door , then paused , nerves prickling . But she wasn't one to hide . After a breath , she opened it and walked downstairs . The twins ' eyes widened when they saw her transformed . " Holden , should we go down too ? " Alex whispered . 48 Title: A Boyfriend on Loan, A Real Love on Way Author: CrushReels Genre: Romance, Modern Status: ongoing In "A Boyfriend on Loan, A Real Love on Way" by CrushReels, Felix Lloyd finds himself in a predicament as he seeks to pacify his family's marriage expectations by renting a girlfriend for the holiday season. However, a serendipitous airport mishap leads Kendal Scott, the wrong woman, into his life. As Felix and Kendal navigate this unexpected twist of fate, the novel delves into themes of familial pressure, mistaken identities, and the complexities of modern relationships. CrushReels intricately weaves together elements of romance and contemporary dilemmas to create a compelling narrative that resonates with readers seeking a blend of heartwarming moments and unforeseen connections. What sets "A Boyfriend on Loan, A Real Love on Way" apart is its ability to balance light-hearted humor with poignant insights into the intricacies of human emotions. With its engaging storyline and relatable characters, this ongoing romance promises a captivating read for fans of modern love stories. Experience the unfolding tale of Felix and Kendal at CrushReels and immerse yourself in a world where love finds its way through unexpected avenues. Read online at CrushReels today to discover the enchanting journey awaiting within these digital pages.