The Don Tore Up Our Divorce (Gemma and Cassian) novel Chapter 34

**Before Rain Touches Earth Memories Return With Gentle Warmth by Eli Dane Crest**
**Chapter 34**

**Gemma**

The dress Zina selected for me is a far cry from my usual taste. Typically, I gravitate towards soft, muted colors that whisper rather than shout. But this dress? It’s a vivid, blood-red that hugs my curves and plunges daringly in both the front and back, a piece that screams for attention.

As I gaze into the mirror, my long, fiery red hair falls in luscious waves, cascading down my shoulders and spilling over my back. I can’t help but admire the reflection staring back at me. Perhaps it’s a touch vain to think so, but tonight, just for this evening, I allow myself to feel breathtaking.

After three long years of blending into the background, of feeling like a ghost in the world my father and Cassian have built around me, I am ready to turn heads and make an entrance.

I meticulously select my jewelry, opting for delicate silver pieces that shimmer subtly against my skin. A touch of makeup here and there enhances my features without overpowering them. Soon enough, we are ready to step out into the night.

**11:21**

“Jace is coming, too,” Zina informs me as we descend in the elevator. “He’s meeting us outside.”

As we exit the building, I spot him immediately. Even from behind, Jace’s tall figure is unmistakable. He stands almost as tall as Cassian, a familiar silhouette that sends a thrill of anticipation through me.

Then, as he turns, my breath catches in my throat.

Gone are the oversized glasses that once made his eyes look comically large. His hair is no longer the greasy mess I remember; instead, it’s neatly styled, framing his face perfectly. It’s as if the awkward boy from my college days has transformed into a striking man overnight—a beautiful swan emerging from the depths of his own insecurities.

Jace now possesses a magnetism I never anticipated. His lips curl into an effortless smile, and his eyes, long-lashed and a stunning shade of mossy gold, hold a depth that draws me in. His bone structure is striking, and in that impeccably tailored suit, it’s evident that he’s more fit than I had ever imagined.

**2/7**

**11:21**

I can hardly wrap my mind around the fact that this handsome man has been hidden beneath layers of awkwardness for so long.

Zina nudges me sharply in the ribs, jolting me from my reverie. I realize I’ve been staring, utterly captivated.

“Jace!” I exclaim, struggling to regain my composure. “You look… really nice.”

He offers a small nod, his usual reticence evident. True to form, Jace remains quiet, letting his appearance do the talking.

But Zina, ever the social butterfly, giggles excitedly and links her arm through his, then mine. “We are going to take the criminal underworld by storm. Let’s go!”

XXXXX

**Cassian**

I navigate through the bustling banquet, Reyna on my arm. Together, we are a force to be reckoned with, surrounded by a web of connections that span the city. Tonight, we’re here to solidify those ties and fortify our alliances.

As the evening unfolds, guests trickle in, and I keep a vigilant eye on the entrance, assessing who arrives. There are certain individuals in this environment that I prefer to keep in my line of sight.

At first, I don’t recognize my wife. All I see is a stunning woman in a daringly short dress, the neckline plunging low enough to tease. The sight of her nearly knocks the wind out of me.

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