---- Chapter 8 Bryson stumbled back, rattled. Lily's fake smile shattered under the weight of her own jealousy. "That's not possible... Kayla Eastwood can't be THAT Eastwood," she muttered, going pale. The name. The high-society whispers. The Eastwoods-two daughters, one son. Robin, the powerhouse. Our brother, the rising political star. And the youngest? Always kept low-key, rumored to be the favorite. Yeah. That was me. "Ms. Eastwood, this is all a big misunderstanding. You're Kayla's sister, right? I just wanted to throw her a grand engagement party." Bryson was the first to recover, scrambling to sound in control as he stepped toward Robin. ---- His voice barely registered. I shook my head, panicked. "No... no..." Robin turned away and pulled me into a hug. "It's okay. I got you. Don't be scared." Just her being there steadied me. She took one look at me and didn't even flinch. "Bring the car around," she told her assistant. Didn't spare Bryson a glance-dude was invisible. Nobody likes being iced out. And if Robin walked out with me like this? By sunrise, Bryson'd be the punchline of Crellan City. He couldn't let that happen-especially now that he knew who I really was. "Ms. Eastwood, you can't just take my-" he blurted. Robin didn't even slow down. "Got time? Google the Eastwoods in Seaport. Try us, and you'll see what we do to guys like you." ---- She steered me into the car without a single glance his way. Bryson? Total poser. Without his family's cash, he wouldn't have made it past the velvet ropes. To someone like Robin, he didn't even exist. The engine roared as we sped off. I curled into the seat, clinging to Robin's familiar presence. She brushed my cheek gently while we headed straight to the hospital. sek After the doctors explained everything and Robin saw the scar herself, her eyes filled. She pulled me close, whispering through tears, "I'm so sorry, Kayla. I was too late. I didn't protect you. You've always loved looking pretty... and now you're stuck with that scar. And your kidney-I failed you." Her tears burned. My whole body shook. I opened my eyes, reaching for her. 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.