---- Chapter 9 When J arrived at the infirmary in a wedding dress to pick up David, he was already gone. I knew then-he had changed the location. At the front desk, the nurse told me he had been discharged. The paperwork? Handled by Serena. I told myself: the final act had begun. The curtain would fall soon. I didn't panic. Didn't rush to find him. Instead, I calmly dialed his number and sent a message asking where he was. No answer. So I drove-to Jackson's grave. Sitting silently in front of his tombstone, I closed my eyes and leaned gently against the cold marble. ---- Saying nothing. Just... breathing. Along silence passed. Then my phone vibrated. A video message from David. He was tied to a chair, mouth gagged with a strip of cloth. Serena stood behind him, eyes wild, pressing a knife to his throat. "aria, why? Why did you get his love so easily? I've been by David's side for years-and you? Just a broken little depressive girl." "Didn't you want to bond with him? Go on, then! If I can't have him, neither can you." "You don't deserve to live, Aria. Let's play a little game. You die-he lives. Or I kill him, and let you live. Your choice." The video froze on David's panicked face, his head shaking frantically. Then-black. ---- "Three hours. If I don't see your suicide livestream by then, I'll kill him." If I hadn't already known their twisted plan, I might've broken down completely. But I was prepared. I took screenshots of the footage and saved them. Then I drove to the sea. I waited out the full three hours. And at the very last minute, I posted one final message - false sorrow dripping from every word: "Tf everyone who loves me ends in tragedy, then the one I love... I'll protect him with my life." I attached the screenshot. Then I went live. The livestream exploded almost instantly. (Wait-is this real? Is she really doing this?] 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.