Chapter 18 Brooklyn I am the last to arrive. "Brooklyn," Jolie gasps, and my head snaps directly to look at her. She's seated on a plush couch, her clothing torn and her face smeared with makeup. At least whatever damage Davis did to her wasn't permanent and she was able to heal quickly. I take a few steps towards her but Aden, standing by the fireplace, clears his throat. I hold myself back, knowing I have a part to play. I look between Jolie and my dad, who is seated next to her. "Brooklyn," my dad gasps, taking in my gorgeous dress, my polished countenance. "Are you…" "I'm fine," I say, setting my shoulders back. "Please," my father says, turning his attention to Aden. "Let them go. Take me. I'll take whatever punishment "No," Aden cuts in, not even looking at him, just staring at me. His green eyes slice into me, his wolf flashing with an emotion I can't place. "You're worthless to me." "Stephen," I say, internally cringing at hearing myself use my father's given name. "I can't forgive you for your betrayal." His mouth falls open. Jolie, next to him, is baffled. "Brooklyn, what are you talking about?" I turn my attention to her. "Didn't you hear? Dad's been keeping me away from my real life. I'm the daughter of an Alpha, a mafia boss, someone who can give me everything I deserve. While we've been scraping by, I could have had yachts, private planes, diamonds. Everything a girl wants." Everything in me screams to tell them the truth, to stop with these lies, but Aden's gaze sits heavy on my shoulders. This is the only way I can save them. Aden Kenwood is too powerful -if I cross him, there will be hell to pay. I know it in my bones, and Lena affirms it. I can only hope my lies convince them. Jolie's mouth falls open in shock and disgust. "Please, Brooklyn," my dad says, devastated. "We can call the police! Kiddo…don't give in." "I just want to go back to my real family. What's it going to take to leave me alone? Fifty grand? A hundred? Whatever you want, I'm sure it can be arranged." Must. Keep. Up. The. Lie. "You're my daughter," he whispers in my ear. "Nothing will ever change that." He gives me one last look and heads for the door. Jolie comes forward next. Before I can register what she's going to do, she snaps her hand up, slapping me across the face as hard as she can. I gasp. "How dare you," she growls. "That slap is not enough. But it's the last thing I'll ever give you." Then, pride written in the straight line of her back, she follows my father out. As soon as the door closes behind them, I collapse at Aden's feet, sobs wracking my body. He stands patiently by me for a moment and then moves to the door. "You did the right thing, little one," he says with approval in his voice before walking out. But, alone in the room, I know I've lost everything that has ever mattered to me. 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.