---- Chapter 5 "Yasmine, that workbook is a total waste of time, and the tutor Anthony's mom hired is a joke. I can't even answer half the questions!" Holly complained. My parents were quick to soothe her. "If you're struggling, chances are everyone else is too. We Shaws have always been lucky, so you're bound to ace it!" Holly perked up at that, a hint of optimism in her voice. "You know, you might be onto something. Maybe I'll slide into a top university after all!" I could not help but snicker at her hopeful logic. Holly, already on edge and making excuses, caught my laughter and saw it as an opportunity to lash out. "Tf I don't make it, it's all going to be your fault and that lousy workbook's," she declared, storming over to me with a raised hand. ---- However, before she could land a hit, Anthony had her arm twisted behind her back. "Ouch! Anthony, let go!" Holly yelped, drawing a crowd of curious onlookers fresh out of their exams. Anthony, still in his crisp military uniform, did not want to cause a scene, so he released her but stood firm, shielding me like a human fortress. Holly massaged her wrist, her gaze landing on the transfer orders in my hand. "So, you're off to the frontier? Anthony, no hard feelings, but apart from your looks, what else have you got going for you? "Even though your dad's a high-ranking official, he never pulled any strings. You, Anthony, you're a one- of-a-kind leader's son in Riverton-because you're nothing like one!" Marvin, Anthony's dad, never played the power card, and Anthony never hid behind his dad's shadow. Those were the virtues of their family, but Holly twisted them into something stupid. ---- I snapped, "Holly, Anthony is my husband no matter what. You've got no right to bad-mouth him!" That set Holly off. She lunged at me, fists ready. "Yasmine, standing up for your man now, huh? Who are you to talk back to me?! "Did you forget? You're the reason Mom almost died. You owe our family big time. You'll be paying us back your whole life, slaving away for us! "Talk to me like that again, and you'll see what I'll do to you!" Holly's eyes were wild, like she wanted to tear me apart. However, Anthony held her back, keeping her from laying a finger on me. Slap! Astinging red mark bloomed on my cheek. My mother had hit me with all her might, and my head buzzed for what felt like forever. 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.