Chapter 139

On Donovan’s birthday, the atmosphere is charged yet intimate, devoid of the usual media frenzy. The Blackwell mafia has gathered for what they call a “simple celebration,” but Gemma feels the weight of their presence. Unlike previous years where she meticulously planned every detail, this time she embraces a more authentic self, opting for comfort over extravagance. She senses that no matter her choice of attire, criticism from the Blackwell family is inevitable, leading her to prioritize her own comfort.
As the festivities begin, Gemma finds herself torn between her duties as Cassian’s wife and her desire to support Donovan. A chess game with him serves as a moment of connection, yet her unease grows with the absence of family members, particularly Nathalia. The pressure mounts as she descends to join the gathering, only to be met with disdainful remarks from Sibille and Adaline. Their sharp comments about her late arrival and perceived lack of contribution sting, but Gemma stands her ground, asserting her role and refusing to be treated like a servant.
The tension escalates as Gemma confronts her relatives, particularly Claire, who attempts to undermine her authority. For years, Gemma has been belittled and overburdened, but she decides to embrace her position within the family. Her firm responses catch Claire off guard, signaling a shift in dynamics. As Donovan approaches, the atmosphere shifts again, and Claire tries to curry favor with him, but Donovan’s indifference to gifts from Sibille and Claire reveals his true feelings about the superficiality surrounding the celebration.
Just as Gemma prepares to unveil her own gift for Donovan, the doorbell rings, interrupting the moment. A blend of curiosity and apprehension fills her as she wonders who could possibly arrive at such a pivotal time. This moment signifies not only the culmination of the day’s tensions but also the potential for unexpected changes in the family dynamics, leaving Gemma on edge about what might unfold next.
**Before Rain Touches Earth Memories Return With Gentle Warmth**
**by Eli Dane Crest**
**Chapter 140**
**Gemma**
On the day of Donovan’s birthday, the atmosphere is decidedly different—no flashing cameras, no intrusive press, and certainly no unexpected guests. It’s an exclusive affair, just a private gathering of the Blackwell mafia. They label it a “simple celebration,” but with the sheer number of Blackwells present, the air is thick with energy, and quietude feels like a distant memory.
In years gone by, I would have orchestrated an elaborate celebration for Donovan—meticulously planning every detail, from my hair and makeup to the dress I would don. Each element would be chosen with care days in advance, all to ensure that I made a memorable impression.
Yet this year, I find solace in simplicity, opting for a modest, comfortable dress that drapes gently around me. I forgo accessories and embellishments, embracing a more authentic version of myself. After all, I know all too well that no matter what I choose to wear, the Blackwells will always find something to criticize.
So, why put in the effort? Instead, I resolve to prioritize my comfort and simply be myself.
The clock ticks toward 17:49, and the sounds of the kitchen echo through the house. The staff is bustling about, preparing a lavish banquet with ingredients sourced from every corner of the globe. Only the finest will suffice for the don of the most formidable criminal organization on the continent.
Sibille arrives early, accompanied by Claire and Dawson, her elegant designer handbag clutched in her hand like a trophy. Adaline makes her entrance about thirty minutes later, her presence commanding, while Adrian, despite his recent rift with Cassian, shows up with Eleanor in tow as his plus one. The only notable absence is Nathalia Montoya, and as I’m upstairs engaged in a chess match with Donovan, I learn that she and her husband have been summoned to patrol the border at the last minute. Their absence gnaws at me; on a day like this, family should be together, especially for someone of Donovan’s age.
Casting a glance at Donovan, I can’t shake the feeling of unease. I know how much it means to him to have everyone present.
“Gemma,” Donovan’s voice breaks through my thoughts, a hint of reprimand lacing his tone. “Focus. You’ve already lost.”
With a deft move, he places his final piece on the board. Checkmate.
A soft chuckle escapes my lips, a blush creeping onto my cheeks as I admit to myself that my mind had wandered.
“The guests should be here by now. I think I’ll head downstairs, Grandpa,” I say, a sense of duty stirring within me. After all, I am still Cassian’s wife, and it is my responsibility to be present for this occasion.
Donovan nods, a twinkle in his eye. “Go on. I’ll join you shortly.”
As I descend the staircase, the sight of the entire Blackwell clan gathered in the living room fills me with an unexpected sense of calm. But it’s short-lived, as Sibille and Adaline immediately shoot me their usual disapproving glares, their disdain palpable.
“I hear you and Cassian have been lounging at the estate lately. Did you just wake up?” Sibille’s voice drips with sarcasm.
“Young people these days love to stay up late, so sleeping in is understandable,” Adaline chimes in, her words laced with venom. “It’s not like Gemma has a job. She has nothing to do at home anyway—might as well catch up on her beauty sleep.”
Sibille snorts derisively. “Even if you were up all night, haven’t you learned any manners? The guests are here. You couldn’t at least come out and greet everyone? Don’t you know how a Blackwell should treat their guests?”
Before I can muster a response, their sharp remarks corner me, making me feel like an impudent child who has just rolled out of bed.
“Sibille,” I respond, my voice steady, “Grandpa asked me to play chess with him. It’s his birthday, and his wishes take precedence today.”
Using Donovan as a shield proves effective.
“If the game is over,” Adaline snaps, her gaze piercing, “you should at least lend a hand around the house.”
She regards me as if I am beneath her, a mere nuisance.
“There are plenty of staff members tending to the preparations,” I assert firmly. “I’m Cassian’s wife, not a maid.”
The room falls into a heavy silence at my declaration.
For the past three years, I have bent over backward for these people, tirelessly cooking the entire feast on Donovan’s birthday. Yet, no matter how much effort I put in, praise is scarce—save for Donovan, who always acknowledges my hard work. The rest of the family nitpicks every detail, from the dishes to the presentation.
So this year? I refuse to shoulder the burden alone.
Claire is the first to speak, her displeasure evident. “You’re not entirely wrong, but today is Grandpa’s birthday. As the lady of the house, you should at least show some appreciation and assist the staff.”
“Then you do it,” I counter, my tone unwavering. “You’re the youngest here. Helping with chores should be your responsibility.”
It’s not her place to dictate what I should do, especially when she isn’t the eldest.
I’m exhausted from tiptoeing around, from being treated like I’m worthless. I grew up in this world, and it’s high time I remember who I truly am. I might as well embrace my role as the donna of this family.
My words catch Claire off guard, her eyes widening in disbelief.
“I can cook!” she huffs defensively. “I’ve just been too busy with school to learn.”
To her, cooking has always been relegated to the realm of bored housewives, not something worthy of her attention.
“Haven’t you been out of school for six months now? And you still haven’t found a job? Sounds like you have plenty of time on your hands. The chefs here are all five-star professionals; if you want to learn, they’ll gladly teach you.”
I refuse to back down any longer. Anyone who tries to undermine me will find themselves met with equal force.
Claire pouts angrily, but just then, footsteps echo from upstairs.
Donovan is on his way down.
She rushes over, her demeanor shifting as she puts on a saccharine smile. “Grandpa, I was just asking Gemma to help out in the kitchen, and she told me I should be the one learning to cook since I just graduated and have free time.”
In her mind, she believes Donovan will side with her, being his biological granddaughter while I am merely his granddaughter by marriage.
But Donovan glances at her, his expression flat. “You won’t help in the kitchen, but you want Gemma to? Do you think you’re more important than her?”
Claire’s arm stiffens where it clings to his.
She opens her mouth to protest, but Sibille quickly intervenes, yanking her away from Donovan.
“Dad, happy birthday. This is a gift from me and Claire.”
Donovan has always had a fondness for art and flowers, and lately, he has developed a taste for vintage fashion.
Sibille presents him with a designer bag, and Claire eagerly pulls out the clothing to showcase it like a prize.
It’s a high-end vintage suit, and the craftsmanship is undeniably exquisite.
Donovan glances at it, then silently places it back into the bag.
“Thanks,” he says, his tone devoid of enthusiasm.
Sibille and Claire freeze, confusion etched on their faces.
Adaline’s gift fares better—a fountain pen, clearly an antique.
Donovan’s expression softens noticeably at the sight.
Claire’s face falls, disappointment washing over her as she registers his lukewarm reaction.
As other relatives present their gifts, Donovan merely glances at them before instructing the staff to take them away.
I’m just about to unveil the painting I’ve prepared when the doorbell rings, drawing everyone’s attention to the entrance.
“Who could that be?” I wonder aloud, a mixture of curiosity and apprehension swirling within me.
As the door swings open, the atmosphere in the room shifts yet again, a wave of anticipation washing over the gathered Blackwell clan. The arrival of unexpected guests brings a sense of renewal, a reminder that family, in all its complex forms, is not just about blood but the bonds forged through shared experiences and love. In that moment, I realize that I am no longer the timid girl trying to fit into this world; I am Gemma Blackwell, the donna of the family, and I have the power to shape our narrative. The disapproval of Sibille and Adaline, once a heavy weight on my shoulders, begins to feel lighter as I embrace my role and the strength that comes with it. I have fought for my place here, and as I stand surrounded by my family, I understand that my worth is not dictated by their opinions but by my own convictions.
In the midst of the chaos, I catch Donovan’s eye, and a silent understanding passes between us. Today, we celebrate not just his birthday but the resilience of our family. I feel a warmth spreading through me, a sense of belonging that I have long sought. The laughter and chatter of our guests fill the room, drowning out the whispers of discontent, and I find comfort in knowing that I am not alone in this journey. As the day unfolds, I vow to cherish these moments, to foster the connections that matter, and to stand tall against the tides of judgment. With each passing hour, the memories we create today will serve as a reminder that love, in all its imperfect forms, is the greatest gift we can give one another.
**What to Expect in the Next Chapter?**
As the doorbell rings, a palpable tension envelops the room, leaving everyone on edge. Who could possibly be arriving at this moment, interrupting the fragile balance of familial dynamics? The arrival of an unexpected guest could either exacerbate the already simmering tensions among the Blackwell clan or bring forth a fresh wave of drama that Gemma must navigate. With the stakes higher than ever, readers can anticipate a whirlwind of emotions as Gemma grapples with her role within this complex family structure, particularly as she strives to assert her identity amidst the relentless scrutiny of her in-laws.
Moreover, the chapter promises to delve deeper into the relationships that have been strained over time. Will Donovan’s birthday celebration serve as a catalyst for revelations, or will it further entrench the existing rivalries? As Gemma prepares to unveil her own heartfelt gift, the stakes are raised—will it resonate with Donovan, or will it be overshadowed by the superficiality of the gifts from others? The emotional undercurrents are bound to intensify, and readers will be left on the edge of their seats, eager to discover how Gemma’s courage and determination will shape the course of this family gathering. Expect surprises, confrontations, and perhaps even a moment of clarity that could redefine Gemma’s place within the Blackwell legacy.
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