Chapter 172
In Chapter 172-1 of “Before Rain Touches Earth Memories Return With Gentle Warmth,” Reyna finds herself in a precarious emotional state after an encounter with Rhett and Cassian. As Rhett tries to support her, Reyna feels embarrassed about her earlier outburst and the burden of her life choices weighs heavily on her. She expresses her gratitude to Rhett, acknowledging his steady presence, but firmly insists that she needs to focus on her career instead of pursuing a romantic relationship. Despite his disappointment, Rhett respects her decision and walks her home, leaving her feeling conflicted.
Once inside her home, Reyna’s emotions unravel as she vents to her mother about the chaotic events that transpired. She recounts how her plan to reach out to Cassian backfired spectacularly, leading to a public scene that ended in humiliation. The arrival of Gemma and her friend Jace only compounded Reyna’s frustration, as she feels her efforts to connect with Cassian were thwarted. Her mother’s discomfort and the revelation that she had previously met Jace only add to Reyna’s anger and sense of betrayal.
Reyna’s internal turmoil intensifies as she realizes the implications of Gemma’s closeness to Jace. Determined not to let this situation slip through her fingers, she resolves to turn the tables in her favor. The chapter closes with Reyna’s fierce determination to take control of her circumstances, indicating her unwillingness to be a passive participant in the unfolding drama. Her emotions oscillate between vulnerability and a newfound resolve, setting the stage for her next steps in reclaiming agency over her life.
Chapter 172-1
Reyna’s POV
Lucky Draw
Cassian’s hand shoves me back, just slightly, but enough for me to lose my balance on the uneven pavement. I flail slightly, but before I can steady myself, Rhett’s arms wrap around me.
“I’ve got you…”
He declares like he’s my savior, and I fix a pitiful smile on my face before easing out of his grip, pushing against his chest with delicate hands.
“You shouldn’t have called him, Rhett…”
I turn away from him, pressing my fingers to my temples and shaking my head. “I feel so embarrassed. Whatever I said to you earlier, it was just me venting. But now? Not only do I still have the burden of this life hanging around my neck, I’ve lost my credibility in his eyes too.”
“He’s blind if he can’t see your worth,” Rhett says suddenly. “Rey… you deserve someone who loves you completely. Not someone who only has half a heart to give you.”
Oh, for God’s sake. Now?
1/4
16:52
I want to scream. Now, of all times, is when Rhett chooses to
< Chapter 172-1
Lucky Draw
But I breathe through the irritation and place my hand on his arm, stroking it softly as I lower my eyelids.
“Rhett… Thank you for being a steady presence in my life, through good times and bad. You’re someone I could count on, and incredibly rare. I really do appreciate it a lot.”
His eyes light up with hope, poor thing.
“But after everything that’s happened…”
I continue carefully, arranging my expression into a crestfallen one. “I think I need to focus on my career right now… after all, I kept it all on stake for Cassian, and… it’s just a huge disappointment. Dating isn’t even on my radar right now, but you’re amazing, Rhett. Honestly, any girl would be lucky to have you.”
The good friend card, delivered perfectly. His face falls, but he nods like some noble idiot, swallowing his disappointment.
He insists on escorting me home, hovering around me like a spirit hanging on, until I finally shut the door behind me after giving him a tearful thanks.
The second it clicks into place, my mask drops.
16:52
Trip off my coat, toss my heels in the corner and storm into the kitchen, where my mother looks up from her soap opera with a