Chapter 32 Aden The morning after the…incident in the hallway, I'm working in my office, but I'm having trouble getting anything done. Though I'm not sure I could have prevented it, I'm angry with myself for falling apart like that in front of Brooklyn. And even more annoyed that of all the professions she could have possibly had, she had to be a therapist. She had to think she might be able to help me. I thought about the way she looked at me, her cheeks flushed, eyes concerned, hair messed up from dragging me, ME, through the doorway to her bedroom. I wanted to take her in my arms and shut her up. Prove to her I was strong, that she was powerless to me. That I was not the powerless one. I groan, throwing my head back against the chair, where I stare at the tree line outside my window until a knock comes at the door. "Come in," I call, hardly paying attention. The door creeks open, but no one says anything. Annoyed, I turn from the window, ready to tell whatever captain or guard is coming with a report to get on with it and stop wasting my time. To my surprise, and slight irritation, Brooklyn stands in the doorway. I lean back in my chair my eyes roaming over her. What on earth could she want now? "Yes?" "Can I come in?" she asks, anxiously playing with her hair. That gorgeous hair I wanted to run my hands through, to tug and hear her hiss in return. "I already told you to come in, Brooklyn." I keep my tone even. Annoyed, Brooklyn drops her hand from her hair and takes two steps into the room, pushing the door closed behind her. Then, she leans against the wall, a little afraid. Like a kitten in a tiger's cage. I can't help but smile at the sight of her. Today she's wearing brown riding boots over tight jeans, a green cashmere sweater on top. The green brings out the cream of her complexion, the fire of her hair. As I knew it would. I selected the sweater for precisely that reason, had it sent up to her room with the housekeeper. Brooklyn starts to play with her hair again, and I decide in that moment that I like it down better than up. I make a mental note to tell the housekeeper to leave it down more often. "Yesss…?" I prompt her again, impatient. "I wanted to talk. About last night." She hesitates again. "Is it safe to talk in here?" I sigh. "Go ahead." "I just wanted to offer, again, to help. In whatever way I can. I'm happy to offer my services." Those tight jeans were a good choice. I'll make sure to get her more of those. Now that that interruption is gone, I turn my attention to the screen on my computer, which holds all of the surveillance footage of the house. A few clicks allow me to focus the cameras on her, following her path as she goes back up the stairs towards her room. She surprises me, though, by passing her room- Continuing down the hallway- Stopping at Hudson's room. A hum of interest escapes my lips as I lean back in my chair, watching her tap gently on his door. My son answers and smiles at her, inviting her in. She disappears inside. I stare at Hudson's closed bedroom door, working to deny the jealousy that's roiling in my gut. Don't think about it. Do something else. Anything else. I lean over to the intercom on my desk, pressing number 8 for my own bedroom. "Jayde?" I say. A few moments later, she answers. "Hey baby," she purrs. "You need me?" "I do indeed. Can you come down to my office, please?" 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.