---- Chapter 10 Too Late For Regret My hard work over the past few months finally paid off. I had just published a new academic paper and was receiving widespread recognition for it. That day, my mentor hosted a celebration banquet in my honor. My colleagues even put up a congratulatory banner-it was a festive, joyful scene. Iheld the bouquet that Levi and Mia had brought and couldn't help but smile, truly and sincerely. It was probably the happiest I'd been in years. After the event, I walked out of the hotel surrounded by laughter and congratulations, feeling completely at ease. But just as I stepped outside, I saw Selena standing there with Evie. Both of them were holding bouquets, too. As soon as Selena saw me, she hurried over, looking awkward and out of place. "Congratulations, Colin." Evie even chimed in sweetly, "Daddy, you're amazing. ---- Her voice was so casual, so natural, as if we were still a family. It was as if nothing had ever happened. As if they hadn't turned their backs on me. Maybe they could pretend, but I certainly couldn't. Selena stepped forward, her voice soft and tentative, like she was testing the waters. "Colin, do you think the three of us could have dinner together tonight? Just one meal, as a family?" Evie lowered her head and nervously twisted the hem of her dress. Her voice was small as she mumbled, " Daddy... I really miss you. Please come home with us." I let out a cold laugh. "What will it take for you both to disappear from my life for good?" The bluntness of my words made them both flinch. This time, Selena finally dropped her pride. For the first time, she showed true weakness in front of me. "Colin, I know Evie and I hurt you deeply, and you don't want to see us right now. But we were married ---- for ten years... You can't honestly tell me you're ready to throw all that away. There are some things you misunderstood. I need to explain them to you." If she had said any of this back then, maybe we wouldn't have come to this point. But now? It was too late. I took a step back and waved her off. "Selena, I don't love you anymore. Don't kid yourself. And there was no misunderstanding between us- everything that happened was real." Selena's face paled. She reached out, like she was afraid I would walk away. "Colin, please let me explain. There was never anything between me and Skyler-I've only ever seen him as an old friend. 1 never crossed any lines, I swear. That day... that day was my fault. I shouldn't have left you waiting in the storm. I'll never make you feel that way again." I gently pulled her hand off me and looked out into the distance, shaking my head. "It wasn't just that 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.