---- Chapter 9 Waking up, I found myself in a hospital room, staring at the stark white ceiling and wondering if I was knocking on death's door. I grabbed my phone and the truth hit me hard-I had been out for three days, and today was Keith's bonding ceremony. The sun was blazing outside, but all I felt was a chill creeping through me. After a while, I snuck out of the room. Back home, I slapped on some makeup and slipped into my fanciest dress. Keith had sent me an invite, and I had to see it for myself. My car was stranded at the pack's office, so I had to hail a cab. As I waited, a black sedan screeched to a halt in front of me. Before I knew it, I was yanked inside, a hand clamped over my mouth and nose, and everything went black. ---- When my eyes flicked open again, I was staring at the ruins of an abandoned construction site. Daniel was there, looming over me. The moment I stirred, he grabbed my shoulders and gave me a shake. "T didn't want it to get this messy, Elsie, but you wouldn't cough up the cash. I had no other choice," he growled, his eyes wild. "Elsie, just think of it as a loan, will you? I swear I'll pay you back someday!" With a poker face, I spilled the truth. "I'm broke. I gave it all away." Daniel's face contorted even more. "You can hand over your cash to total strangers, but you won't cough it up to save my life?" His grip was crushing my shoulders, pain flashing through me, forcing my eyes shut. "I told you ages ago to quit." Daniel used to be that broke but brilliant student. Now? A gambler on the edge. ---- He gave me that wild look, zeroing in on the ruby necklace I wore. Ina flash, he ripped it from my neck. "This piece screams fancy. Hand it over!" However, that necklace was from Keith, and I could not let it go. I fought back hard, "No way! Not this!" Somehow, I found the strength to hold onto Daniel's hand. His eyes turned savage. "You made your choice, don't blame me!" Then, a dagger's cold gleam, and it plunged into my stomach. A wolf's howl of pain echoed inside me. I gasped for air, my body hitting the floor. Daniel snatched the necklace and ran, ditching the knife. I crawled to it, cut myself free. Blood was everywhere. With shaking hands, I dialed the last number I would ever call. It rang and rang until Keith picked up. I wanted to hear his voice one last time, but the words 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.