Chapter 25 Sonya rolled her eyes at Lily Lane and headed to the bar . Hey , Sonya , watch out for scammers ! Ive seen those marriage fraud stories online . Be careful ! The bartender made them two cocktails . Wheres your boss ? Lily Lane asked . Hes in the back . Busy tonight . Lily Lane surveyed the bar , nodding approvingly . Jake Parkers taste is always impeccable . This place is stylish . Thanks , beautiful , Jake Parker said , appearing from the back , wiping his hands before extending a hand to Lily Lane . Welcome home . Lily Lane was surprised , then smiled and shook his hand . I consider New York home , but New York doesnt quite know me yet . Jake Parker chuckled . Itll get there . Give it time . He pointed to a private room . The CEO of JoyPlus Entertainment is in there . Ill go say hi , then bring you in . Lily Lane nodded . Before leaving , Jake Parker said to Sonya , Seraphina West booked a room tonight . Julian is there too . If you dont want to see them , you can relax on the rooftop . Leo Jones will be here later . Sonya was touched by his thoughtfulness . The rooftop was empty . Sonya , worried about Lily Lane , sat at a table overlooking the courtyard and waved to Lily Lane . Lily Lane gave her a thumbs up . The rooftop was quiet , overlooking a sea of city lights . Sonya took a photo and sent it to Henry . He sent her one in return a cityscape sliced by the early morning light . The floors are finished . Im going to start buying furniture . Can you get me a gaming PC ? You like gaming? Yeah , but I promise not to neglect my chores . Sonya laughed . And the bed has to be the biggest one you can find . 11 Dont get any ideas . I just like to toss and turn . He was teasing her . She sent an angry emoji . He replied with a crying emoji . Jake Parker emerged from the private room with a man in his forties , pale skinned and wearing glasses . This was the CEO of JoyPlus Entertainment . Jake Parker introduced Lily Lane . The man studied Lily Lane and shook his head . Im not going to beat around the bush . First , shes too old . To make a splash at her age , she needs a strong existing fanbase . Second , shes pretty , but unremarkable . Hard to remember . Menu Chapter 25 It was brutally honest , and awkward . Chen , shes acted before , shes experienced . Better than some clueless newbie . Shes not picky and can start with small roles , Jake Parker argued . The man shook his head again . Honestly , Id rather sign a newbie . Youth is capital . But if she has connections and resources , I might consider it . What do you mean ? Jake Parker asked . Heard the young Master Reynolds is here , right ? Jake Parkers eyes flickered . Hes a friend of a friend . Reynolds Corps Lightning Films is producing a historical drama . A great crew . If she can get a role , even a small one , Ill sign her . The man returned to his private room . The message was clear : if Lily Lane could get a role through the Reynoldss , it proved she had connections , and hed sign her . Jake Parker looked at Lily Lane . I can take you to Seraphina Wests room , but dont get your hopes up . Think about it . Theyll give you a hard time . Lily Lane sighed . What other choice do I have ? Sonya frowned as Jake Parker led Lily Lane to Seraphina Wests private room . She overheard Luna Stone sneer , Lily Lane , lost , are you ? This isnt a place for you . Jake Parker laughed . Were all friends . Lets get to know each other . He opened a bottle of Whisky and bowed slightly to Jason Reynolds . Young Master Reynolds , its my honor youd com to my humble bar . Ill drink to that . He downed a large portion of the liquor straight from the bottle , shocking everyone . Jason Reynolds , impressed by Jake Parkers boldness , took a sip from his glass . Lily , come here , Jake Parker called Lily Lane over and introduced her to Jason Reynolds . She used to be an actress , but quit after getting married . She wants to return . Jake Parker nudged Lily Lane . Lily Lane raised a glass of Whisky . Young Master Reynolds , pleased to meet you . Ill drink to that . She finished it in one gulp . Lily Lane , youre not here for a joke , are you ? You want to act ? Luna Stone laughed . Look in the mirror . Its not your fault youre average looking , but lacking self awareness is your fault . Lily , Im hosting , but I didnt invite you . Theres no room . Maybe another time ? Seraphina West said coldly . I dont need a seat . Im just here for some fun . Lily Lane continued to smile . She knew shed face ridicule , but she had to endure it . Bro Jake , Julian Jennings looked at Jake Parker , frowning . Jake Parker clasped his hands . Give me some face . We have to give Bro Jake face , Luna Stone agreed . She asked a server for ten glasses , filled them Chapter 25 Menu with Whisky , and arranged them in a row . Lily , were old classmates . I want to help , but it depends on your sincerity . Ill drink for her , Jake Parker offered . Bro Jake , Im giving you face . You should give me some too , Luna Stone said impatiently . But thats two pounds of Whisky … Dont worry , Ill drink it , Lily Lane said . She took a deep breath , raised a glass , and looked at Jason Reynolds . Young Master Reynolds , Im Lily Lane . If you remember me , and give me a small role , Id be forever grateful . Tears mixed with the liquor as she drank . She had to humble herself . Sonya arrived to see Lily Lane , already five glasses down , barely standing , but forcing herself to drink more . Sonya rushed in , supporting Lily Lane , then looked at everyone . Ill drink for her ! Before anyone could react , she picked up a glass and finished it . Title: Cherry Author: CrushReel Genre: Romance, Modern, Romantic Status: ongoing In "Cherry" by CrushReel, Ivy League freshman Aaron Milton, 17, embarks on a unique journey of love with Linda, 34, a spirited former wild-child navigating her return to college for a fresh start. As their paths intertwine, Aaron finds himself immersed in a world beyond textbooks, where lessons of the heart take center stage. Exploring themes of age disparity and personal growth, "Cherry" delves into the complexities of relationships and self-discovery. Aaron's youthful innocence contrasts with Linda's life experience, creating a dynamic that challenges societal norms and perceptions of love. The narrative unfolds with tender moments and poignant revelations, painting a vivid picture of two souls entwined in an unconventional romance. What sets "Cherry" apart is its authentic portrayal of human connection and emotional depth. Through CrushReel's masterful storytelling, readers are invited to witness the evolution of Aaron and Linda's bond, rooting for their happiness amidst societal expectations. Discover the allure of "Cherry" and immerse yourself in a tale that transcends age barriers and embraces the power of love. Experience the enchanting world of "Cherry" available to read online at CrushReel.