The Don Tore Up Our Divorce (Gemma and Cassian) novel Chapter 186

**Before Rain Touches Earth Memories Return With Gentle Warmth by Eli Dane Crest**
**Chapter 186**

**Gemma’s POV**

The speedboat cuts through the waves, the wind whipping my hair into a frenzy and causing tears to sting my eyes. As we approach the island, the water transforms into a brilliant shade of pale turquoise, shimmering like a jewel under the midday sun. It feels surreal, almost like stepping into a dream.

The island itself is a picturesque paradise, reminiscent of a postcard—white sandy beaches stretching endlessly, palm trees swaying gently in the warm breeze. When we finally dock, Zina lets out a deep, full-bodied sigh, her voice laced with awe. “Okay… That is unfairly pretty,” she exclaims, her eyes wide with wonder.

We disembark from the boat, excitement bubbling within us as we make our way toward the rental cabana to change into our swimsuits. Zina slips into a vibrant pink one-piece that perfectly complements her sun-kissed skin, while I opt for a darker teal bikini that makes me feel confident and free.

As we stroll along the shoreline, we reunite with Jace, who is leaning casually against the sand. He whistles softly, his gaze sweeping over us appreciatively. “Well, the ocean isn’t the only beautiful thing out here,” he quips, a teasing grin spreading across his face.

I roll my eyes, unable to suppress a smile. “Oh shut up, this is really not the time to practice your flirting skills,” I retort, playfully nudging him.

Zina, still grappling with her nerves, grabs my arm tightly. “Gemma… You know I can’t swim. What if I dive in and drown within ten seconds?” Her voice is tinged with genuine fear, and I can see the panic in her eyes.

I glance over my shoulder at Jace, silently pleading for some encouragement. “Can you please say something supportive?” I ask, my voice barely above a whisper.

He gives a half-shrug, his expression a mix of amusement and sincerity. “There’s always a first time for everything—right?”

Zina groans, covering her face with her hands in exasperation. “I’m the idiot who booked this tour without considering that I don’t know how to survive in water! How embarrassing is that?”

“Relax,” I chuckle, trying to ease her anxiety. “I’ll ask the instructor to keep an eye on you, okay? Nothing will happen.”

We make our way to where the diving instructor is welcoming the group, and my gaze is immediately drawn to a tall, tanned guy with an easy smile and sun-bleached blonde hair. He exudes confidence, and I can’t help but feel a flutter of excitement.

Before I can even muster the courage to speak, Zina suddenly releases my arm and bounds forward, her enthusiasm bubbling over. “Hi! So… I’m kind of nervous. It’s my first time diving,” she blurts out, her voice a mix of excitement and apprehension.

He smiles down at her, a playful wink accompanying his words. “Don’t worry, I’ll stay right beside you,” he assures her, and in an instant, she has latched onto his arm like a baby koala, her fear seemingly forgotten. Jace and I exchange a bemused glance, both of us taken aback by her sudden boldness.

“So… guess she doesn’t need our help anymore?” I say, raising an eyebrow.

“Guess not,” Jace replies, a smirk creeping onto his face.

We hand over our phones, a necessary precaution for the dive, and follow the rest of the group into the warm shallows. The water gently laps at my ankles, then my knees, and finally my waist as we wade deeper.

I pause for just a moment when they hand me the mask and oxygen tank, staring out at the vast expanse of blue stretching endlessly before me. It feels both exhilarating and intimidating.

Jace notices my hesitation and leans closer. “Hey, you alright?” he asks, concern etched in his features.

“Yeah,” I respond, nodding while taking a deep breath to steady my nerves. “It’s just… bigger than I imagined.”

“You’ll be fine,” he reassures me with an unwavering confidence that calms my racing heart. Together, we slip beneath the surface, and suddenly, the world above fades away. All that exists is the dazzling sunlight filtering through the water and the vibrant coral swaying gently in the currents.

In that moment, I manage to push aside all thoughts of Cassian, all the heartache that swells in my chest whenever his name crosses my mind. Here, in the embrace of the sea, I find a fleeting sense of peace, a moment of clarity amidst the chaos of my emotions.

**Cassian’s POV**

By the time I return to the hotel, the sun has already begun its descent, casting a warm golden hue across the sky. I step into our room, only to find it empty. Where could Gemma have gone?

I pull my phone from my pocket and dial her number, but it goes straight to voicemail. I try again, frustration bubbling beneath the surface as I hear the familiar automated message.

On the third attempt, irritation starts to coil tightly within me. My fingers grip the phone, the screen flashing 5:10 PM—ten minutes past the time we had agreed to meet.

I quickly change and head downstairs, making my way to the front desk. “I’m looking for Gemma Blackwell, Room 1304. Has she gone anywhere or left any message for me?” I ask, trying to keep my tone steady.

The young woman at the desk avoids my gaze, shaking her head apologetically. “I’m sorry, sir. We… haven’t seen Mrs. Blackwell this afternoon.”

Her eyes dart to the side for a brief moment, and I follow her gaze to see Reyna stepping out of the elevator, looking casual in a simple outfit.

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