---- Chapter 8 His words hit me like a punch to the gut, casually wiping away all that had happened between us. The impact was terrifyingly potent. I felt a lump in my chest, and I doubled over, coughing so hard it felt like my heart was ripping apart. When I finally caught my breath, I looked at my hand, covered in fresh blood. Keith saw it too. His expression darkened, and he was at my side in an instant, his voice deep with concern. " What's going on?" My heart skipped a beat, and I hid my hand behind me. A thought crossed my mind, 'If I told Keith about my sickness, would he soften? Would he change his mind?! I tried to act nonchalant, figuring out how to break the news about my illness. However, Keith read me all wrong. His eyes grew icy, and he shook off my hand. "You're lying to me again," he said, his voice like ice. ---- That word 'again' was dripping with disgust and indifference. Ihad faked being sick before, desperate for his attention after my mom got together with the alpha, and I did not want to lose Keith. He had been tricked one too many times and thought I was up to my old tricks. His accusation doused my courage like a bucket of ice water. I went pale, managing a weak, wry smile. " Yeah, I'm just faking it, looking for a bit of your concern." I gripped the blood I had coughed up and walked away. In the days that followed, I left Keith alone. Instead, I called up a lawyer, ready to put my affairs in order. The cemetery sales guy was all smiles and way too eager. "This plot's a hot ticket at a hundred grand, primo location. Lots of folks are lining up for it. If you don't snap it up now, it'll be gone ina flash." Hearing his well-rehearsed spiel, I could not help but crack up. ---- They said when someone was dead, that was it, game over. However, apparently, even the final resting place had its VIP section. My chuckle seemed to kick his enthusiasm up a notch. "It's right by the main road, super tidy, easy to get to -perfect for when friends and family come to visit." I gotta admit, his pitch got to me, and I was just gonna grab any old cheap plot. Card swiped, contract signed, I found myself hoping -miaybe Keith would wander by, spot my stone, and spare a thought for me, even if it was just once a year. Back from the graveyard, I parked across from the pack's office. No makeup today, I was just gonna sneak a peek at Keith and bail. His threats had me on edge. I snorted at the irony. There I was, knocking on death's door, but still aiming to go out with a little class. 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.