---- Chapter 1 Not Worth It Anymore When I woke up, the sharp smell of disinfectant filled my nose. Every inch of my body ached, and my head was foggy with exhaustion and fever. It was only after asking a nurse that I found out-I had collapsed outside my front door the night before, and it was a neighbor who had called an ambulance and gotten me to the hospital. Suddenly, my daughter's voice echoed in my head. ' Uncle Skyler...' The man was none other than Skyler Shire, Selena Sorrell's first love. It was around noon, and the hospital room buzzed occasionally with the sounds of other patients ---- chatting with visiting family. My bedside, however, remained empty. After a long silence, I gave in and tried calling Selena. As expected, she didn't pick up. So I opened Instagram. She had just posted an update. 'Enjoying the holiday with the ones I love.' In the photo, Selena and Skyler stood on either side of my daughter, each with an arm around her. All three were siniling brightly at the camera, holding up little flags. It was the perfect picture of a happy family. A bitter smile tugged at the corner of my lips. To say I didn't feel hurt would be a lie. But moments like this had become so common that I was numb to them. I even gave the post a like before setting my phone down. The whole time I stayed in the hospital, Selena and my daughter were out having fun with Skyler. By the time I was discharged, I was still alone, quietly packing my things and heading back home by myself. The moment I opened the front door, laughter and ---- chatter echoed from inside. Selena and Evie were lounging on the sofa, surrounded by stacks of beautifully wrapped gift boxes. Expensive. Lavish. When they saw me walk in, their expressions instantly changed-faces cold, aloof, as if I were some unwelcome guest. In the past, I would have pretended nothing was wrong. I would have tried to make conversation, to smooth things over. But now I was too tired-both physically and emotionally. I didn't have anything left to give. Selena sat cross-legged on the couch, glaring at me." Where the hell have you been, Colin? You disappeared for days without a single message, and now you just waltz back in? What kind of father are you?" I stared at her, confused. She must have been so caught up playing house with Skyler and our daughter that she hadn't seen the dozens of calls I left. But that was how it always was. Somehow, no matter what happened, I ended up the bad guy. Title: ReelTalk EP11-From Memory Lane to Fast Lanes Author: CrushReel Genre: Romance Status: ongoing Embark on an exhilarating journey alongside Luke Charles Stafford as he navigates from the heartland of the Midwest to the glitzy realm of Hollywood in "ReelTalk EP11-From Memory Lane to Fast Lanes" by CrushReel. This ongoing romantic tale delves into the intertwined lives of characters amidst contrasting backdrops, promising a narrative rich in depth and emotion. Within this captivating episode, Luke's transition from a quaint Midwestern setting to the bustling streets of Hollywood unveils layers of personal growth and unforeseen encounters. As he grapples with newfound challenges and connections, themes of love, ambition, and self-discovery intertwine to create a tapestry of emotions that resonate with readers on a profound level. "ReelTalk EP11-From Memory Lane to Fast Lanes" stands out through its nuanced portrayal of relationships and the pursuit of dreams against a backdrop of contrasting landscapes. CrushReel's expertise in crafting authentic characters and evocative settings ensures a reading experience that transcends traditional romance narratives. Immerse yourself in this spellbinding story, available to read at CrushReel, and witness firsthand the magnetic pull of fate as it weaves its intricate web through the lives of Luke and those around him. Experience the magic of "ReelTalk EP11-From Memory Lane to Fast Lanes" as it unfolds online at CrushReel, inviting you to explore the depths of love and ambition in a world where paths cross and destinies collide.