---- Chapter 7 Three days later, at Silvia's funeral. I stood quietly at the very back of the crowd. Keith and Joan were up front, laying flowers with the alpha. Then my mother walked in, wearing a dress so bright it was almost blinding, strutting as if she owned the place. She bent down and laid flowers on Silvia's grave, all eyes on her in shock. I could not believe it. Sometimes, I just could not fathom how my mother could live so shamelessly. Keith's expression darkened, his hands balled into fists, and with a glare that could freeze hell over, he spat at my mother, "How dare you show your face here?" Under Keith's intense stare, my mother just kept on grinning wildly. ---- She playfully flicked her hair, and her eyes slowly found me, lingering at the back of the crowd. "Elsie, why are you all the way back there? Come up front." I froze, feeling every stare piercing through me like nails. When I did not move, my mother approached with a smile, took my hand, and said, "If it weren't for Elsie being so thoughtful and informing me, I would have been clueless about your mother's incident, Keith. As your stepmother, I'll step in for her and look after you properly." My mind went blank, and I tried to shake off my mother's grip, but she held me firmly, like a hawk clutching its prey. The next thing I knew, I was locked in Keith's sharp gaze. Keith's jaw was tight, and he spat out the words with venom. "Elsie, you've really outdone yourself!" His eyes were so icy, so alien and frightening, it felt like any warmth between us had evaporated in an ---- instant. I stumbled over my words, desperate to explain. "It wasn't me! I didn't tell her!" However, Keith did not seem to hear me. He stooped to pick up the bouquet my mother had offered and hurled it at us without a shred of mercy. "Take your daughter and these flowers and get out. Don't disrupt my mother's funeral!" Petals fell like tears to the floor. Joan stepped in just in time, holding back the furious Keith, her voice a soothing balm. "Keith, stop, your mother wouldn't have wanted her funeral turned upside down." Then she looked at me, her voice firm. "Elsie, don't make things harder for your brother. Take Luna and leave now." The mention of "Luna" only fueled Keith's rage further. I grabbed my mother and we made a beeline for the 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.