---- Chapter 7 "Hand over Kayla." Lily acted like she was in charge, but everyone froze. Even Bryson, all smug a second ago, dropped his gaze. He knew exactly where those bodyguards came from -and what it meant that Robin was Eastwood Corp's CEO. He never planned to tick her off unless things got desperate. "Wait, that's her? Robin Eastwood-the iron- blooded CEO from Seaport? She's legend. I heard she got invited to this party, but I thought it was just gossip." "And Bryson's little side chick thinks she can square up to Robin? Please. Look at the difference-it's laughable." "Bullied a helpless girl and got busted by Robin Eastwood herself... this party's officially a disaster." Whispers flew through Crellan's elite crowd. ---- To them, I was nothing-just some disposable girl. Maybe they pitied me, but none of them were about to mess with the Schuberts over it. But Robin was different-one of the rare women at the top. Whispers flew. Bryson shrank by the second. Guests started slipping out, not wanting to get caught in the blast radius. Lily bit her lip so hard it almost bled. She'd pegged Robin as small-time. Had no clue even Bryson wouldn't dare mess with her. And deep down, she just didn't get why some people were born winning. "'Ms. Eastwood, I'm so sorry. You must've heard awful stuff. I thought you were just Kayla's friend-I didn't mean it like that. Don't take it the wrong way. Don't believe her-she's the one who stepped outta line." Robin didn't stop. Every step made the tension ---- thicker. Lily, thinking her groveling was working, kept talking. Smack. Right when Bryson thought things had cooled down, Robin slapped Lily hard. Her cheek puffed up fast. "And who told you it was okay to trash-talk Kayla? Was it Bryson Schubert? Last I checked, he doesn't run Crellan City. Or did a couple business wins make he think he could come for my family?" Robin's voice hit Bryson like a freight train. People backed off without thinking. Bryson was born into power. Robin earned hers. You could feel the difference. Even as a kid, she kinda terrified me. That energy? Unshakable. Bryson's face went beet red. Lily just got slapped into next week, and yeah-he was fuming. ---- But he didn't do a thing. Just stepped in front of her." Ms. Eastwood, if you've got beef, take it out on me. No need to hit my friend. And let's not forget-this is my engagement party. "The woman behind you? That's my fiancée. No matter what went down, she's still part of my family. You're not. Why even get involved? Or are you here just to humiliate me?" He was bracing for impact. Robin glanced at me, lashes low, pain flickering across her face. "Oh, did I miss something? "Since when was my little sister part of your family? And me-her actual sister-some outsider? "Funny. Never saw you at our door. What kind of fiancé never even meets the fam?" 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.