Chapter 133

In Chapter 133 of *Before Rain Touches Earth: Memories Return With Gentle Warmth*, Gemma reflects on the contrasting tastes of her companions, Donovan and Cassian. Donovan has a peculiar love for spicy food despite being unable to handle it, while Cassian prefers milder flavors. Their stay at Donovan’s has led to meals that cater to Cassian’s bland palate, leaving Gemma feeling somewhat stifled in her culinary desires. However, she suddenly feels inspired to change this dynamic and excitedly announces her plan to buy fresh meat for grilling, knowing Donovan will be thrilled.
Gemma’s trip to the butcher shop sparks a surprising response from Cassian, who insists on accompanying her despite the chaos of the local market. This unexpected determination from Cassian leaves Gemma both confused and reluctant, as she’s used to handling such errands alone. Nevertheless, she decides to let him join, and they venture to the bustling market together. The atmosphere is overwhelming, especially for Cassian, who questions the choice of shopping at a farmer’s market instead of a supermarket, but Gemma defends her preference for fresher, more affordable produce.
As they navigate through the market, Gemma showcases her negotiation skills, surprising Cassian with her confidence and familiarity with the vendors. For the first time, he witnesses a different side of her, one that thrives in the vibrant chaos of the market. Their successful purchase of meat leads to a moment of connection, as Cassian becomes more curious about Gemma’s routine and preferences. The chapter highlights Gemma’s joy in the experience and her satisfaction in providing quality food, while also subtly revealing Cassian’s growing intrigue and admiration for her.
The chapter culminates in a successful barbecue, filling Gemma with happiness as her friends Sibille and Claire return just in time to join the meal. The evening takes an unexpected turn when three elegantly dressed individuals arrive at their home, including a familiar face from a past encounter—a girl Gemma had helped during a party. This moment hints at the unfolding of new connections and potential developments in their lives, adding an intriguing layer to the story as it progresses.
**Before Rain Touches Earth: Memories Return With Gentle Warmth**
**by Eli Dane Crest**
**Chapter 133**
**Gemma**
Donovan has a peculiar relationship with food, particularly when it comes to spice. He simply cannot handle it, yet he has an undeniable affinity for fiery dishes. “It makes me feel warm inside,” he claims, though I often wonder what that actually means. Perhaps it’s a strange comfort he finds in the heat, a contradiction that baffles me.
In stark contrast, Cassian has a palate that leans towards the mild and the mundane. He prefers flavors that are light and unassuming, steering clear of anything that might set his taste buds aflame.
Since we’ve been staying at Donovan’s place, our meals have largely revolved around Cassian’s preferences. It’s as if we’ve all agreed to sacrifice our culinary desires for the sake of his bland choices.
Suddenly, a spark of inspiration ignites in my mind.
“Grandpa, it’s Gemma! I’ll grab some fresh beef and lamb for the grill,” I announce, my excitement bubbling over.
There’s something irresistible about the idea of fresh meat sizzling on the barbecue, and I know Donovan won’t be able to resist.
As expected, he responds with enthusiasm, his voice practically dancing with excitement. “That sounds amazing!”
**17:45**
**Chapter 133**
**+3 Bonus**
“The butcher shop is a bit of a trek,” I mention, glancing outside at the fading light. “If it’s too much trouble, just drop me off on the way. I can manage the rest on my own.”
“I’ll go with you,” Cassian interjects, his tone surprisingly firm.
I turn to him, taken aback. Cassian and bustling food markets don’t typically go hand in hand. The local market is a cacophony of chaos, filled with the pungent aromas of raw meat and the briny scent of seawater—sometimes a combination that can be quite overwhelming. Yet, it’s precisely this messy atmosphere that makes it the best spot to find quality ingredients.
I can hardly believe he’s serious about accompanying me.
“Really, it’s just a few items. I can handle it without any help,” I reply, trying to brush off his offer.
Turning my face away, I feel a mix of confusion and reluctance. Why does he suddenly want to join me on this errand? My instinct is to decline his offer, but he’s not one to take no for an answer.
“94% fine. I’m coming with you,” he insists, his determination clear.
**17:45**
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Once Cassian sets his mind on something, there’s no changing it. I decide not to press the issue further. If he’s determined to endure the chaos of the market, then so be it.
As we approach the food market, located at the southern edge of the territory, the atmosphere shifts. It’s crowded, loud, and utterly chaotic. Families bustle around, filling their baskets with groceries. Cassian’s expression darkens the moment we arrive; he frowns, observing the vendors shouting prices from behind their cluttered stands.
“Why not just go to a supermarket?” he questions, clearly unimpressed. “They have a better selection and—”
“Farmers’ markets are cheaper, and the produce is fresher,” I interject, already making my way through the throng.
Sure, the items in supermarkets might look pristine, neatly packaged and polished, but that’s all a facade created by processing and marketing. The prices are inflated too. Here, the meat is freshly butchered, raw and unrefined, but that’s what makes it superior to anything you’d find in a store.
**3/7**
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**Chapter 133**
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Cassian trails behind me in silence, observing as I haggle like a seasoned pro. I negotiate prices with ease, chatting with the vendors without a hint of hesitation. It’s a side of me he’s never witnessed before, and I can sense his bewilderment.
“Come on, I’m a regular here,” I say to one of the butchers, flashing a grin. “How about a discount? I promise I’ll keep coming back.”
I’m completely in my element, bartering confidently while Cassian watches, his presence a quiet backdrop.
When the vendor finally hands me the wrapped bags of beef and lamb, I feel a rush of satisfaction. I turn to Cassian for the first time since we arrived. “Let’s go. That’s everything we need from here.”
The rest can be taken care of back home.
It seems Cassian has acclimated to the market’s smell; he no longer covers his nose. Instead, he glances around, curiosity evident in his eyes. “You come here often?”
I nod. “The servants always get our meat from this butcher.”
Cassian is notoriously picky. Few things ever earn his approval, let alone a compliment. Yet, the first time I brought meat from this shop, he was genuinely impressed. He remarked on its freshness and flavor, a moment I’ve cherished since.
Even though I don’t cook, I ensure that whenever beef, lamb, or pork is on the dinner table, it’s sourced from this very shop. All the servants know this little detail.
But Cassian? He’s the only one left in the dark.
His expression shifts—surprise mingled with confusion—as we make our way back to the estate with our prized meat.
**17:45**
**Chapter 133**
**+3 Bonus**
The barbecue turns out to be a resounding success, and I can’t help but feel a swell of happiness. Sibille and Claire had ventured out shopping and returned just in time for the end of dinner, their arms laden with luxurious bags. Claire shoots me an exaggerated eye roll the moment she spots me, clearly unimpressed by my market adventure.
As the evening winds down, the doorbell chimes. One of the servants rushes to answer it, and every eye in the room shifts toward the entrance.
Three elegantly dressed individuals step inside, all smiles and carrying bags of varying sizes. I don’t recognize them, but the servants treat them with the utmost respect.
Among them stands a familiar face—the girl at the back, her long black hair cascading around her shoulders. She’s about my age, and I remember her well; she’s the one I helped at the party, the one who had suffered a heart attack.
**6/7**
**17:45**
**The Don Tore Up Our Divorce**
**+3 Bonus**
**Chapter 134**
As the evening draws to a close, the warmth of the barbecue lingers in the air, wrapping around us like a comforting embrace. The laughter and chatter of friends fill the room, creating a tapestry of shared moments that seem to weave us closer together. Donovan’s enthusiasm for the meal and Cassian’s unexpected willingness to join me at the market have opened a new chapter in our dynamic. It’s a reminder that beneath the layers of our individual preferences and quirks, there lies a deeper connection waiting to be explored. The contrast between Cassian’s reserved nature and my spirited approach to life has begun to blur, revealing the possibility of understanding and camaraderie that had previously eluded us.
As the unexpected guests arrive, I feel a flutter of anticipation mixed with trepidation. The familiar face of the girl from the party brings back memories of vulnerability and strength, echoing the themes of connection and healing that have emerged throughout the day. It strikes me that just as the rain nourishes the earth, so too do these interactions nourish our souls, fostering growth and resilience. In this moment, surrounded by friends and the promise of new beginnings, I realize that the warmth we seek is not just found in the heat of spicy food or the comfort of familiar routines, but in the bonds we forge with one another, illuminating the path ahead.
In the upcoming chapter, readers can expect a whirlwind of emotions as Gemma navigates the unexpected arrival of guests at the estate. The familiar face of the girl from the party, now stepping into Gemma’s world, promises to stir up memories and unresolved feelings. What does her presence mean for Gemma, and how will it affect the dynamics of the evening? With the air thick with anticipation, Gemma must confront not only the girl’s return but also the implications it has for her relationships with Donovan and Cassian.
As the evening unfolds, tensions may rise, revealing hidden layers of Gemma’s past and her connections to these newcomers. Will she find the courage to confront her feelings, or will she retreat into the safety of her familiar routine? The chapter hints at deeper revelations and potential conflicts, setting the stage for a dramatic exploration of friendship, loyalty, and the complexities of human connection. With the barbecue celebration now overshadowed by this unexpected twist, readers will be left on the edge of their seats, eager to discover how Gemma will navigate this intricate web of memories and emotions.
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