---- "David, what's so special about her?" she'd whine. David would just smile indulgently, patting her head. "T told you-be good." Her eyes would light up. "So... if she fails your test, does that mean I get to be with you instead?" But his tone shifted-sudden and sharp. "Serena-Aria is my life." I was standing just outside when I heard those words. My heart trembled. For amoment, I faltered again. Remembering the way he'd instinctively shielded me in the crash... Then Serena's voice echoed again: "But you know the truth already, don't you? The car crash you planned- ---- she didn't even react. So... what about the performance we scheduled for tomorrow?" "Shut up." David's voice was low and warning. I stood frozen in place. The crash... was staged? Everything I'd been trying to hold together suddenly shattered. Even that moment -his so-called sacrifice- was scripted? And tomorrow... was going to be the real show? It felt like invisible hands were tightening around my throat. Suffocating. Crushing. Back inside, the two of them were still playing their ---- sweet little act. I'd had enough. I pushed the door open and walked in. "Aria, your eyes... have you been crying?" David smiled and gave Serena a quick glance. "Don't worry-I'm fine. See? I'm bouncing back. Discharged tomorrow." I waited in silence as he finished his meal. Then I picked up the lunchbox and left. But Serena followed me out. "Aria, let's compete fairly," she said smoothly. Ishot her a cold glance, silent. "T grew up with David. I'm the one who should be by his side." My chest tightened. ---- "You should be telling David that." Serena smiled, smug. "Oh? Didn't you know? He slept in my bed last night." She tugged down her collar, revealing deep red bite marks on her neck. Dark. Brazen. Deliberate. "What do you have... that can possibly beat me?" Beat her? Serena and David truly were two of a kind- treating love like some sick contest. Always fighting for the win. I didn't answer. She snorted. "So, you're not giving up? You really are shameless. Don't you get it? Jackson didn't save you just to hand you over to David." 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.