---- Chapter 3 The pain was so intense, my vision started to fade, Keith's face blurring. However, even through the haze, I caught the annoyance and scorn in his voice. When I finally got my bearings, I did not even bother trying to explain. Keith left me at my front door and walked away without looking back. Ihad barely stepped inside when my mom called. "The alpha asked your brother to come home for dinner. You should come too. It'll be nice, the whole family together." Her voice was soft, and I could not help but laugh at the irony. Why did she insist on playing the perfect mom? Anyone who did not know us would have thought we were the picture of a loving family. However, it had been five years since we cut ties over ---- her decision to be with some high-and-mighty alpha. Other than setting me up on awkward blind dates, we barely talked. I did not have the energy to call her out on her act, sol just nodded and let it slide. The next day, around noon in the villa, lunch was just hitting the table when Keith strolled in, fashionably late. I could not help but stare as he approached. He was all sharp lines and designer threads, a world away from the guy who lived in hoodies. I was still trying to wrap my head around it when my mom, clinging to her alpha's arm, cooed at Keith with asyrupy smile, "Keith, you're finally here! Come, sit down to eat. We've all been waiting for you." I could not figure out my mom's deal. She knew Keith could not stand her, yet she kept up that mother-of- the-year charade. Predictably, Keith barely reacted, not even sparing her a glance. ---- However, Mom did not miss a beat. She was all over him at the table, fussing like she owned the place. Then she went all June Cleaver, serving the alpha his soup and trying to pass me the bread spread like a picture-perfect mother. Too bad it was blueberry jam. I froze for a second. I was allergic to blueberries- like, break-out-in-hives allergic. Before I could say a word, Keith, cool as a cucumber, grabbed the jam from her, "She can't have this."' I blinked, surprised, and turned to look at him. He was the picture of calm, like he had not just stepped into a family minefield. Mom's smile went stiff. She tried to play it off, "Keith, you and your sister seem close. That's a relief for me and Alpha." The dinner table was silent, but Mom did not seem to mind the quiet. She smoothly changed the subject, " Oh, Elsie, Lucas-the heir to the Morey pack- 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.