Chapter 216

In Chapter 215 of “Before Rain Touches Earth Memories Return With Gentle Warmth” by Eli Dane Crest, Cassian confronts Mikhail about his wife, Gemma, working in an inappropriate position under him. Cassian’s frustration is palpable as he insists that Gemma, who is his wife and a capable individual, should not be subjected to such a demeaning role. Mikhail, however, mocks Cassian’s concerns, suggesting that his motivations stem from pride rather than genuine care for Gemma’s dignity. This leads to a heated exchange, where Cassian’s anger surges as Mikhail belittles both his relationship with Gemma and her professional abilities.
Cassian’s emotions intensify as Mikhail continues to taunt him, insinuating that Cassian is afraid of Gemma finding happiness and success outside of their marriage. The confrontation escalates, revealing deeper insecurities and tensions between the two men. Cassian’s protective instincts for Gemma clash with Mikhail’s dismissive attitude, culminating in Cassian storming out of the office, determined to speak to Gemma directly about the situation.
Meanwhile, Gemma returns home with plans to surprise Jace, only to stumble upon an unexpected scene. She witnesses Jace in conversation with another woman, Amanda, who is trying to persuade him to accept a job opportunity. Gemma’s feelings of unease and jealousy surface as she observes their interaction from the shadows. Jace’s firm rejection of Amanda’s advances showcases his loyalty, but Gemma is left feeling confused and embarrassed when he notices her presence.
The chapter concludes with Gemma retreating into her apartment, overwhelmed by the emotions stirred by the encounter. She distracts herself with housework, trying to suppress the confusion and embarrassment from witnessing Jace’s interaction with Amanda. The tension in both Cassian and Gemma’s narratives highlights the complexities of their relationships and the challenges they face in asserting their identities and protecting their loved ones.
**Before Rain Touches Earth Memories Return With Gentle Warmth by Eli Dane Crest 215**
**Chapter 215**
**Cassian’s POV**
“What exactly do you expect me to do?” I ask, my voice steady but laced with frustration.
“You will remove her from this position.” I state emphatically, ensuring my words leave no room for misinterpretation. “It is utterly inappropriate for her to be here, answering to you. She has no place in this office, and you know it just as well as I do.”
He leans back in his chair, a mocking glint in his eye. “Hmm… and why would I fire her? Just because you say so?” His tone drips with sarcasm, and I can feel my blood beginning to boil.
Narrowing my eyes, I respond with a quiet intensity, “Because she is Cassian Blackwell’s wife, and a Donna in her own right. She doesn’t belong here, relegated to some ridiculous role as your housekeeper.”
A laugh escapes his lips, low and dismissive. He shakes his head, as if I’ve just told him a particularly amusing joke. “So, it’s true then. You don’t actually want her to be here, thriving in her career. I had my doubts, but now it’s clear… your pride can’t handle it. What’s the phrase I’m looking for?” He snaps his fingers lazily, a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth. “Ah, yes. Male chauvinism!”
The urge to smash his head against the wall is almost overwhelming.
“This isn’t about pride; it’s about dignity. My wife has no business being dragged into your petty rebellion against your father,” I retort, my voice steady but my fists clenched at my sides, fighting the urge to lash out.
Mikhail’s lips twist into a derisive smile. “No, Cassian! This is about your pride. You believe you can dictate her life, where she goes, what she does, who she works for. You want her out of sight, all to keep your fragile ego intact.”
I step forward, my patience wearing thin. “Careful.”
“Why should I be careful?” he counters, his infuriating grin widening. “Because I’m saying what you refuse to admit? Believe it or not, she’s good at what she does. Sweet, reliable…”
He lets his gaze drift off, as if imagining her standing before him, and I can feel a surge of anger bubbling within me.
“…and let’s not forget, she’s quite attractive too. In this industry, even if I were to fire her, there would be many men lining up to have her around.”
A hot flash of fury surges through my chest, and my hands ball into fists. “Watch your mouth! This is between me and her, so stop pretending you know anything about us.”
“Then perhaps you should stop barking at me and go have a conversation with your wife, if she even wants to talk to you,” he snaps back, his tone dripping with condescension.
For one fleeting moment, I contemplate the satisfaction of wiping that smug look off his face.
“VOLOSHIN!” I grit out through clenched teeth, “choose your words wisely.”
But he merely shrugs, feigning innocence. “What? You asked me to fire her. I’m just explaining why I won’t. Unlike you, I don’t view her as a burden.”
I take a step closer to his desk, lowering my voice to a dangerous whisper. “You have no idea what you’re toying with, and you will regret the consequences from your grave.”
“Oh, I think I understand perfectly. You’re terrified she might actually find happiness here, away from you…”
“This conversation is over.”
With that, I storm out of his office, the door slamming shut behind me, a wave of anger coursing through my veins. I don’t need his approval; if I want the truth, I’ll hear it directly from Gemma herself.
—
**Gemma’s POV**
As I return to my apartment, a book nestled under my arm, I plan to surprise Jace with it. The hour is late, and I don’t anticipate running into anyone in the dimly lit hallway.
But just as I reach the landing, the soft creak of a door catches my attention.
Jace steps out, casually dressed, a trash bag swinging in his hand. My lips part, ready to call out to him, but before I can utter his name, I hear another set of footsteps approaching from inside the apartment.
A woman in a pale blue dress glides out behind him, tall and graceful, her long waves of hair cascading over her shoulders.
My breath hitches in my throat.
“Jace, wait for me!” she calls lightly, her tone suggesting a familiarity that sends a pang of unease through me.
I freeze, instinctively retreating a few steps into the shadows, curiosity piqued. Who is this girl?
From my hidden vantage point, I can observe them without being seen. The woman steps closer to him, her voice soft yet persuasive.
“Think about what I just said. It’s a perfect opportunity for you. The pay is generous, and you’ll gain exposure too! I promise, you won’t find a better offer than this.”
Jace’s voice emerges clipped and firm. “Amanda, I already told you no. I’m not interested.”
The girl named Amanda doesn’t seem deterred. Her eyes sparkle with determination as she presses on.
“You’ve been home for weeks, Jace. You quit that job abroad, and you haven’t committed to anything new. This project could set you up quite nicely. Why are you turning it down?”
He shifts the trash bag from one hand to the other, irritation evident in his posture. “Because I don’t need it, and I don’t want it. Isn’t that clear enough?”
Amanda’s brow furrows in disappointment. “You’re wasting your talent. Everyone knows what you’re capable of. For all of us in my class, you were a living legend! Someone we aspired to be like.”
She reaches for his hand again, her voice coaxing. “You could lead this project with my family’s backing. Trust me, money isn’t the only thing you’ll gain—”
“I’m not for sale, Amanda. My answer is final.”
His tone sharpens, slicing through the air like a knife, and I feel my heart race as I piece together the situation. She’s one of his juniors, attempting to draw him into some kind of business deal.
I remain hidden, peeking over the wall as Amanda exhales a frustrated sigh.
“At least think about it? For me.”
“Okay…”
In that instant, Jace’s gaze snaps up, and our eyes lock for the briefest moment. His expression shifts, surprise coloring his features.
“Gemma…”
He mouths my name, and I quickly straighten up, retreating behind the wall, desperate to avoid embarrassment.
Amanda turns, startled, her eyes following his gaze. But before she can spot me, Jace sets the trash bag down with a thud and pivots sharply to face her.
“That’s enough. Please leave, now.”
Amanda blinks, confusion flickering across her face. “But Jace…”
“I said, leave.”
His voice is unwavering, leaving no room for argument.
The confidence in his dismissal twists my stomach into knots. Is he sending her away because he saw me lurking here and doesn’t want me to know? Or does he think I’ll push him to accept this offer instead of mine?
Amanda hesitates, biting her lip, then finally steps back. “Fine. But if you regret turning this down, even a little bit, you know where to find me…”
Jace remains silent until she begins walking toward the stairs.
By the time Amanda exits and he turns around to find me again, I have already slipped from my hiding place and rushed inside my apartment.
The moment I step in, I immerse myself in housework, trying to drown out the embarrassment and confusion swirling in my mind, not allowing myself a moment to think about what just transpired.
In the aftermath of the confrontation with Mikhail, Cassian stands at a crossroads, grappling with the weight of his emotions. The fierce protectiveness he feels for Gemma is overshadowed by a growing realization that his attempts to shield her may stem from his own insecurities rather than a genuine desire for her happiness. As he storms out of the office, the anger still coursing through him, a flicker of doubt ignites within. Is he truly looking out for Gemma’s best interests, or is he merely trying to control the narrative of her life, fearing that her success might overshadow his own? The complexities of love and pride intertwine, leaving him to confront the uncomfortable truth that he must learn to trust her choices, even if it means relinquishing the illusion of control he clings to.
Meanwhile, Gemma’s unexpected encounter with Jace and the enigmatic Amanda serves as a mirror to Cassian’s internal struggle. As she watches Jace assert his independence and turn down an opportunity that could elevate his career, Gemma grapples with feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty. The sight of Jace standing firm against Amanda’s coaxing ignites a flicker of hope within her—perhaps he is capable of making decisions that align with his true self, just as she strives to do in her own career. Yet, the confusion of hiding in the shadows leaves her questioning their connection and the dynamics of their relationship. As she dives into housework to distract herself from her swirling emotions, Gemma realizes that both she and Cassian must confront their fears and communicate openly if they are to navigate the complexities of their lives together. The path ahead may be fraught with challenges, but it is also ripe with the potential for growth and understanding, should they choose to embrace it.
**What to Expect in Next Chapter?**
In the upcoming chapter, tensions will reach a boiling point as Cassian confronts not only Mikhail but also his own insecurities regarding Gemma’s independence and career aspirations. With the stakes higher than ever, readers can anticipate a deeper exploration of Cassian’s internal struggle as he grapples with the implications of Gemma’s choices and the threat posed by Mikhail’s manipulations. Will Cassian finally recognize the importance of supporting Gemma in her endeavors, or will his pride continue to cloud his judgment? The emotional stakes are set to escalate, leading to a confrontation that could redefine their relationship.
Meanwhile, Gemma’s world is about to get even more complicated. The enigmatic Amanda’s persistence raises questions about Jace’s future and the choices he must make. As Gemma navigates her feelings of jealousy and insecurity, she will be forced to confront her own fears about Jace’s ambitions and the potential for their paths to diverge. Will she find the courage to communicate her feelings, or will her silence lead to misunderstandings that could jeopardize their bond? Expect a whirlwind of emotions, revelations, and unexpected decisions that will leave readers eagerly turning the pages to see how these intertwined lives will unfold.
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