The Don Tore Up Our Divorce (Gemma and Cassian) novel Chapter 228

**Before Rain Touches Earth Memories Return With Gentle Warmth by Eli Dane Crest 228**

**Chapter 228**

**Gemma’s POV**

The atmosphere around the table shifts abruptly after Mikhail’s sharp remark, as if a sudden chill has swept through the room, leaving everyone momentarily speechless. It’s an unspoken rule among us that no one dares to speak to Cassian in such a way.

Yet, to my astonishment, the tension does not escalate into a full-blown argument. Instead, Cassian finishes the last drops from his bottle, while Mikhail leans back in his chair, a self-satisfied grin spreading across his face. The game we were playing fades into the background, overshadowed by the palpable heat of their rivalry, which hangs thick in the air, almost suffocating.

Seizing the opportunity, I quietly slide back into my seat, a wave of relief washing over me as I realize that this absurd punishment is finally coming to an end. If I remain still and invisible, perhaps I can slip away unnoticed before anyone pulls me back into their chaotic drama.

But, of course, I should have anticipated it; Reyna’s voice slices through the silence like a knife, sharp and filled with accusation.

“Gemma, you know Cassian’s stomach is sensitive, and yet you still conspired with someone to make him drink that much? Don’t you care about your husband at all? You should have at least tried to stop him, even if just superficially!”

She flutters her eyelashes at me as if she is chastising me for Cassian’s sake.

I turn my head sharply to meet her furious glare. Her eyes blaze with an intensity that feels unjustified, brimming with anger she has no right to possess.

“I didn’t make him drink, Reyna. From my perspective, he seemed to be enjoying himself quite a bit. So maybe you should reserve your concern for situations where it’s truly warranted.”

I hold her gaze, unwavering. “Besides, what gives you the right to confront me? Are you his mother or his nanny? Don’t be ridiculous.”

Her jaw drops in surprise, eyebrows shooting up as if I’ve just revealed the most shocking secret. It’s amusing to see the Fairy Princess so offended by my words.

Yet, it’s Rhett’s glare that truly pierces through me, protective of her even when she is clearly in the wrong. His anger on her behalf is almost laughable, as if he believes his loyalty is enough to intimidate me into submission.

But I am far too exhausted for their games, too weary to engage in their petty squabbles.

“I’m leaving,” I announce, reaching for my bag. The strap slips across my shoulder as I rise, my chair scraping softly against the floor.

That should have been the end of it, but Cassian stands up immediately, his tall figure blocking the light as he approaches me. His voice is resolute, leaving no room for debate. “I’ll drive you.”

My heart races, and I feel an involuntary urge to stop him, my fingers tightening around the strap of my bag. “You’ve just had—”

His jaw clenches, and for a moment, I think he might argue, but he doesn’t. Instead, he walks to my side with a steady determination that leaves me both surprised and unsettled.

“I’ll call my driver, and he’ll take us home. But I’m not leaving without you.”

I swallow hard, feeling a strange mix of emotions at this newfound stubbornness from him. In the past, he has always sought to distance himself from me, never to remain close.

Still, I choose silence, refusing to respond or even glance in his direction. The last thing I want is to create another scene, another spectacle for others to scrutinize.

Turning away, I head toward the exit without checking to see if he is following. My pulse steadies, colder than before. Let them watch, let them whisper.

All I want is to escape this suffocating atmosphere.

This time, I don’t stop when someone calls my name.

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