**Before Rain Touches Earth Memories Return With Gentle Warmth**
**by Eli Dane**
**Crest 124**
**Chapter 124**
**Cassian**
Without a moment’s hesitation, the words tumble from my lips, “Gemma and I are trying for a baby.” It feels like a declaration, a desperate attempt to stake my claim.
The thought of anyone taking her away from me is unbearable.
As soon as she hears my proclamation, Gemma’s fingers dig into my arm, her expression a mix of annoyance and disbelief.
“It’s fine,” she asserts, her voice steady and unwavering. “Even if I am trying to get pregnant, I can still do my job perfectly.”
Kane, ever the charmer, smiles and nods in agreement. “Of course,” he says, his tone warm. “Miss Marino is an exceptional woman.”
A weight settles heavily in my chest as I absorb his words.
I never anticipated this moment, realizing that others can see the brilliance of Gemma.
My mind drifts back to the past, to how I once regarded her. The hurtful things I used to say echo in my memory.
I remember telling her that without the Blackwell family, she was nothing, that no one would ever want her.
But now, she stands before me, defying those very words, shining brightly in a way I never thought possible.
She’s being offered a job—an opportunity from someone with a more substantial operation than ours.
And here I am, the man who should understand her best, feeling lost and inadequate.
Kane Butler, who has only crossed paths with her a handful of times, seems to grasp her essence better than I ever have.
I find myself standing behind her, a wave of shame washing over me.
Is it any wonder she desires a divorce?
I’ve been a fool!
Kane’s admiration for Gemma is palpable, and it goes beyond mere professional respect.
The green-eyed monster stirs within me, and I instinctively tighten my arm around her, silently asserting my claim over what I still believe is mine.
Yes, Kane and I may have business ties, but right now, I can hardly bear to look at him.
After exchanging a few more pleasantries, I take Gemma by the hand and lead her away from the gathering.
*****
**Reyna**
Honestly, I hadn’t planned on attending this party at all.
But the moment I caught wind that Cassian had brought Gemma along, I felt an irresistible urge to rush over.
I never paid much attention to her before, but lately, it seems Cassian can’t take his eyes off her. And now, here he is, openly declaring their relationship at such a public event?
I can’t wrap my head around it.
Watching them wrapped up in each other, sharing smiles and laughter? It makes my blood boil.
What am I, if not just Gemma’s half-sister, barely a footnote in this unfolding drama?
If only Cassian were still on my side, I could easily put Gemma in her place.
But it’s painfully clear he’s chosen her over me.
How did we end up in this twisted scenario?
They’re supposed to be finalizing their divorce soon…
Yet, for the first time, a chilling realization hits me—
In Cassian’s world, I am overshadowed by Gemma, my worth diminished in comparison.
I scan the room, my gaze landing on Kane Butler, who is engaged in cheerful conversation with two others. He leans casually against the floor-to-ceiling window, a glass of red wine in hand, exuding an air of calm confidence.
I’ve been observing Kane for a while now. There’s no way I’m going to let him fall for Gemma too.
Why is it that every man seems to be captivated by her?
With a quick assessment of my reflection, I duck into the bathroom to touch up my makeup and straighten my dress, preparing myself for the confrontation ahead.
As I walk toward Kane, I aim to embody confidence and allure with each step.



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