---- and catered to her every mood swing. I gave her everything, treating her like she was my whole world. When she got pregnant, I even gave up my one shot at a professional certification just to stay by her side. Later, when she became dissatisfied with my job, she asked me to quit and stay home with the baby. For this family I worked so hard to build, I compromised at every turn. I agreed to her every request. Back then, I naively believed marriage was about mutual compromise. That everyone got through it the same way-bit by bit, step by step. What I didn't understand was that marriage also needed love to survive. Without love, no amount of effort could hold it together. And now, Selena and I were living proof of that truth. When our daughter, Evie, was born, I thought she made it all worth it. Her eyes were clear, full of wonder. She was a sickly baby-always down with colds and fevers, constantly needing attention. Selena ---- was busy with work, so it was up to me to stay up night after night. I rocked her, fed her, and soothed her. I raised her, step by step, hour by hour. Then, Skyler came back, and everything changed. Selena's heart shifted. She said Skyler didn't know anyone here and needed company. She said he had health issues and needed someone to care for him. She said he was struggling to find a job, so she hired him. Skyler, Skyler, Skyler. Everything became about him. Eventually, she stopped pretending. She started comparing me to him outright-said I was dull, unambitious, too ordinary. Not like Skyler, who came back from abroad so capable and charming. ---- She forgot that I only became this version of myself because of her. This marriage had drained every drop of love and energy from me. And still, I was left broken. In the end, love-or the lack of it-was always crystal clear. When I woke from that long dream, I decided to let it all go. Everything in the past could stay where it belonged. 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.