The winter air hit Rosalies face the moment she stepped out of LAX , pulling her suitcase behind her . She instinctively tucked her chin into her scarf , wrapping it tighter around her neck . New York winters were brutally cold , but Los Angeles winters , though crisp , carried a subtle moisture that somehow felt gentler against the skin . She scanned the crowd of waiting people , quickly spotting a familiar figure . Alistair Lima stood a short distance away , his tall frame accentuated by an impeccably tailored black coat . In his hands was an incongruously cute pink plush hot water bottle , a stark contrast to his typically serious CEO demeanor . Warmth spread through Rosalies chest as she hurried toward him . When Alistair saw her , his face lit up with a smile that he reserved only for her . She threw herself into his arms , her voice taking on the teasing tone that had always worked on him . I specifically told you not to brave the cold , Ali . Alistair ruffled her hair affectionately . Since when do I listen when it comes to you ? Rosalie held onto him without saying more . She knew how much Alistair doted on her . Since childhood , hed moved heaven and earth to give her whatever she wanted . Even during her most difficult teenage phases , hed never once raised his voice at her . Alistair took her suitcase and led her toward the parking garage . Once in his Range Rover , he leaned over to fasten her seatbelt , bringing them momentarily close . Rosalie caught the distinctive notes of Creed Aventus , the cologne hed worn for years . The scent was comforting , familiar home . She looked up , accidentally meeting his eyes . There was something in Alistairs gaze that caught her attention a warmth that went beyond typical brotherly affection . zuried Your Frome My Stepbrother Startled by the observation , Rosalie quickly looked down . Im being ridiculous , she thought . Its just been too long since Ive seen him . But Alistair didnt immediately move away . His fingers brushed lightly against her cheek , his voice protective . Youre flushed . The New York cold must have followed you here . Rosalie stammered . Im fine , really . Alistair smiled , handing her the hot water bottle . The Lima family cant afford for their star dancer to catch cold . As Rosalie took it , the comforting warmth spread through her fingers . She looked down at the cute pink plush covering and couldnt help but smile . Since when does the mighty Alistair Lima shop for cute plushies ? Alistair didnt answer , just curved his lips into a slight smile as he started the car . During the drive , he asked about her life in New York . Rosalie answered casually , maintaining a light tone . The dance company was incredible . Madame Beaumont actually let me choreograph for the spring showcase . Ive got videos Ill show you later . Alistair nodded , but then his voice took on that gentle yet probing quality she knew so well . And this boyfriend situation ? How old is he ? What does he do ? How did you meet ? Why did you really break up ? Rosalie felt a flicker of discomfort at the direct questions . She looked down , absently tracing the stitching on the hot water bottle . You never used to interrogate me about my love life . Alistairs voice remained soft but carried an unmistakable firmness . Would you have told me if I had ? Rosalie fell silent . A brief image of Dante flashed through her mind his smile , his betrayal , the videos , the calculation behind every tender moment but she pushed it away . What good would come from telling Alistair the truth ? It would only cause pain and conflict , and shed had enough of both . So she crafted a story , keeping her voice casual . We met at an industry event . Hes three years older , works in design . Things were good at first he was attentive , thoughtful thats partly why I stayed away so long . But eventually , we wanted different things . He was ready to settle down , talking marriage and suburbs . I still have so much I want to accomplish with my dancing . We argued about it pretty often , and eventually , the relationship just … faded . Very adult , very mutual , very boring breakup story . My Stepbrother 7.1 % Charger ** Alistair didnt respond immediately , he paired at her to the eyes or weakage ou that made her wonder if he could see right through her falwinatione OM Title: ReelTalk EP 40 - Contract Lovers & Heartbreak CrushReel's ongoing romance series, Miss You After Goodbye, continues to captivate on the latest ReelTalk episode. Haley Lohrli dives into her daring new character, while Ben and Josh share insights into their own memorable roles, promising a blend of laughter and heartwarming moments. Exploring themes of love, loss, and unexpected connections, this episode delves deep into the intricate relationships that drive the narrative forward. As the stars reveal their on-screen chemistry and off-screen camaraderie, viewers are in for a treat with each unfolding scene. What sets this episode apart is its ability to balance humor with poignant storytelling, offering a refreshing take on modern romance dynamics. Dive into the world of Contract Lovers & Heartbreak, available to read at CrushReel for a journey that promises both entertainment and emotional resonance.