---- on top of him. It was Keith. I froze. Our eyes locked. Keith tossed his cigarette aside and came toward me. I tooka shaky step back, murmuring, "Why didn't you go in? The code's the same, it's your birthday." Keith did not say a word. He just grabbed me by the neck and kissed me hard. Before I knew it, I was backed up against the wall, and the door swung open with a couple of beeps. Keith half-carried, half-dragged me into the apartment and then down onto the bed. Keith towered over me, his eyes lingering on my lips before he finally broke the silence of the night. "Keep that Daniel away from Joan. He's an eyesore to her." The buzz in my head cleared up instantly. A sharp ---- pain gripped my heart as I realized he shared Joan's opinion. My voice was raspy with emotion as I shot back, " Keith, you sure like to stick your nose in other people's business. Does Joan know you're overprotective even in bed?" Keith froze, and our eyes, red with anger, clashed in the still air. Then, out of nowhere, the phone rang. I jumped, watching as Keith calmly snatched the phone and hit the answer button. My mother's voice, livid and sharp, cut through, " Elsie, what a fine mess you've made! It's bad enough you're keeping a boy toy, but to bring him to your matchmaking dinner? You might not care about your reputation, but I do!" I tried to grab the phone, but Keith pinned me down with ease, his other hand mischievously slipping under my clothes. Iclenched my teeth, holding back any sound, but he ---- squeezed my chin, forcing a soft cry from me. The line went dead silent. I was overwhelmed with unspeakable shame, my whole body burning with the urge to hide away. Keith's voice was cool and detached as he spoke into the phone, "Elsie's sick, I'm taking care of her." The call ended, and I was swept into another wave of agony. 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.