Chapter 86

In Chapter 86 of “Before Rain Touches Earth Memories Return With Gentle Warmth,” the tension between Gemma and Cassian escalates dramatically as they confront the ongoing issues surrounding Reyna. Gemma’s sarcasm reflects her frustration with Cassian’s constant focus on Reyna, whom he views as a glamorous figure while dismissing Gemma as a mere gold digger. Their argument reveals deep-seated insecurities and misunderstandings, with Gemma questioning Cassian’s loyalty and trust in her. She feels trapped in a cycle of blame, believing that Cassian always turns to her as the source of their problems when Reyna is involved.
As the confrontation intensifies, Cassian accuses Gemma’s friend Zina of sending threatening messages to Reyna, which Gemma vehemently denies. The emotional weight of the situation is palpable as Gemma struggles to defend herself against Cassian’s suspicions. Despite her efforts to assert her innocence, Cassian’s unwavering belief in Reyna’s innocence only deepens Gemma’s hurt and frustration. The scene captures the raw emotions of betrayal, anger, and the desperate need for validation in their tumultuous relationship.
In a bid to resolve the conflict, Gemma decides to confront Reyna directly, insisting that they go together to her home. This decision reflects Gemma’s determination to prove her innocence and confront the situation head-on. As they arrive at Reyna’s place, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation and unresolved tension. The darkness of Reyna’s home mirrors the complicated emotions at play, and when Reyna appears, the confrontation promises to escalate further. Reyna’s initial reaction to Gemma underscores the jealousy and animosity that has been simmering beneath the surface, setting the stage for a dramatic showdown.
Overall, this chapter encapsulates the themes of trust, jealousy, and the complexities of human relationships, as Gemma fights to reclaim her position in Cassian’s life and confront the shadow of Reyna that looms over them both. The emotional stakes are high, and the impending confrontation hints at potential revelations that could change the dynamics between the characters forever.
**TITLE: Before Rain Touches Earth Memories Return With Gentle Warmth by Eli Dane**
**Chapter 86**
**Gemma**
A laugh escapes my lips, laced with a heavy dose of sarcasm. It’s almost amusing how predictable this all is.
“If you trust me, I’ll tell you,” I reply, my gaze fixed on him, icy and unyielding.
“It’s always the same story. The moment she walks into the room, I’m the one left holding the blame.”
“Reyna and I aren’t what you think,” Cassian insists, his tone pleading yet defensive.
Not what I think? For the last three years, every argument we’ve had has revolved around her. To him, she’s the dazzling wolf, the mastermind behind smuggling operations, while I’m just a worthless gold digger, clinging to the scraps. I’m exhausted by this endless cycle.
“Then why do you always scream at me because of her?” I shout, my voice rising in frustration. “Who’s your real wife, Cassian?”
I’ve tolerated so much, even convincing myself to step back so they could have their moment together. What a fool I’ve been.
“Cassian, let go. You’re hurting me!”
He finally registers the pressure of his grip, loosening it slightly. Taking a deep breath, he tries to regain his composure, but the edge in his voice remains.
“Tell your people to stop. Leave Reyna alone.”
“Huh?” I respond, confusion knitting my brow.
“Don’t play dumb.” His patience is wearing thin, and I can see the storm brewing in his eyes.
“I genuinely have no idea what you’re talking about. You barged in here, shouting at me, and I’m completely in the dark about what I allegedly did to Reyna.” I yank my hand away, stepping back, wincing as I notice the red mark left on my wrist.
Cassian pauses, a flicker of uncertainty crossing his face.
“Reyna called me. She said she received a threatening message. Someone called her a bitch… said she’s a mistress and needs to be dealt with.”
“What does that have to do with me?” I retort, a mix of indignation and disbelief bubbling within me.
“That person claimed to be your friend and sent Reyna pictures of us together,” Cassian explains, his voice sharp. “They told Reyna that if she doesn’t leave me alone, she will be dealt with.”
“Which friend of mine?” I ask, my mind racing. Since our marriage, my circle has shrunk significantly. The only one I still talk to is Zina. Sure, I could see Zina pulling something like that, but she would never threaten Reyna without consulting me first.
“Gemma, Reyna’s innocent. She received those threatening texts and was set up. Tell your friend to apologize, and this will all be over,” Cassian states, as if his suggestion is the most logical solution.
I stare at him, disbelief and hurt coursing through my veins. He’s never truly trusted me. Just one whisper from Reyna, and he’s convinced I’m behind this harassment. “How do you know it’s my friend? Why do you trust Reyna so blindly? You think I would waste my time or resources to stoop so low as to threaten a lowlife like her?”
“Which friend? The one who took you to the bar, of course! Her personal life is a disaster, and she constantly gives you terrible advice—who else could it be?”
A surge of anger ignites within me. I had no idea Cassian harbored such disdain for Zina.
“Cassian, enough. You have no right to say that. Reyna has no proof, but you’ve fallen for her lies like a fool. Don’t drag me and my friends into this mess.”
“It was her,” he insists, his voice unwavering.
“Fine! I’ll settle this,” I declare, my determination surging as I reach for my phone, dialing Zina’s number and putting it on speaker as it rings.
“Hey, girl. Good morning,” Zina greets cheerfully when she picks up.
“Morning,” I reply, trying to maintain a facade of calm, even though I know she’ll pick up on my tension.
“You good? You sound off. What’s wrong?” she asks, her concern evident.
“I just wanted to ask a few things, if you don’t mind,” I say, raising the volume on my phone so Cassian can hear every word.
“Did you send anyone to call or text Reyna, threatening her?” I hold my breath, praying she’ll say no. I’m almost certain she wouldn’t—yet I also know Zina can be a bit reckless at times.
“Nope. Not me. You know that’s not even my style,” she replies, her tone firm.
That’s exactly what I expected. If it had been Zina, she would’ve handled it swiftly, leaving no chance for retaliation. She outgrew childish pranks long ago.
“Okay, thanks, babe. Catch you later.”
“Anytime, bitch, take care,” she responds, and I hang up, turning my gaze back to Cassian.
“See? It wasn’t me, and it definitely wasn’t Zina.”
“Who else but your friend would have private photos of us? And who else would call Reyna a mistress?” His voice cuts through the air, suspicion etched in every word.
I cross my arms, my expression frigid. “Did you even see the photo? Did you check the number that sent those threats? No. You’re just lashing out at me because it’s convenient. Well, guess what? I’m not your damn punching bag.”
His jaw clenches, but I’m done being the victim. “Zina is my friend. If you don’t like her, that’s your issue. But don’t you dare insult her. Ever.”
Cassian hesitates, clearly taken aback by my defiance. His frown deepens as he turns toward the nightstand, grabbing his keys. “I need to check on Reyna.”
I roll my eyes, the irritation bubbling to the surface. Right. Because Reyna is such a fragile flower, trembling at the slightest hint of danger. Cassian is completely blinded by her act.
As he heads for the door, I step forward, my resolve hardening. “I’m coming with you,” I state firmly, locking eyes with him. “Since you’re so convinced I did this, let’s go confront her together. Watch closely and see if it’s really me.”
Cassian sighs, clearly reluctant but recognizing the validity of my point.
When the car pulls up in front of Reyna’s place, he turns to me with a stern look.
“Listen,” he says, his voice low but firm. “Don’t go in there and start a scene. I know you thrive on drama, but for once—just once—can you be calm and nice?”
“I’m not making any promises,” I reply, swinging the car door open. “Just make sure your girl doesn’t get on my nerves.”
I step out and walk inside. The house is shrouded in darkness, the only illumination coming from a dim floor lamp in the living room, casting elongated shadows that dance along the walls.
“Reyna?” Cassian calls out, his tone echoing in the silence.
A shadow shifts from the couch almost immediately. Reyna’s clothes are rumpled, her hair a chaotic mess. Her complexion is pale, but her lips are painted a bold red, as if she’s just returned from a wild night out. Despite the disarray, she still possesses that effortless beauty that seems to draw everyone in.
She must have anticipated Cassian’s arrival alone because she instinctively moves to fall into his arms. But the moment she spots me trailing behind him, she freezes, her expression shifting as if she’s seen a ghost.
“Gemma?” Her voice drips with anger and jealousy, a palpable tension filling the air.
In this tumultuous moment, the air is thick with unspoken accusations and simmering resentment. Gemma stands firm, no longer willing to play the role of the victim in a narrative that has long been dictated by Cassian’s blind trust in Reyna. The confrontation at Reyna’s house symbolizes a turning point for her; she is ready to reclaim her voice and challenge the narrative that has left her feeling powerless. As she faces Reyna, the tension shifts from a battle of words to a clash of wills, with Gemma determined to expose the truth and assert her place in a relationship that has been overshadowed by jealousy and manipulation.
Cassian, caught between the two women, must confront the reality of his misplaced trust. The emotional arc reaches its climax as Gemma’s defiance forces him to reevaluate his perceptions and the dynamics that have governed their relationship. No longer will she tolerate being treated as a mere pawn in a game orchestrated by others. As the shadows dance around them, Gemma’s resolve to confront the situation head-on signifies a new chapter, one where she embraces her strength and seeks to dismantle the illusions that have kept her in the dark. The storm brewing within her is poised to break, heralding a moment of clarity and empowerment that promises to reshape her future.
In the next chapter, the storm of emotions between Gemma and Cassian reaches a boiling point as they confront Reyna, who stands poised to defend her territory. With the air thick with tension, readers can expect a clash of wills that will reveal deeper secrets and unearth hidden truths. Will Gemma’s determination to clear her name bring her closer to Cassian, or will Reyna’s manipulative charm succeed in driving a wedge between them? The stakes are higher than ever as Gemma prepares to confront the woman who has been the source of her turmoil, and the outcome could alter the course of their lives forever.
As the confrontation unfolds, the dynamics of trust and betrayal will be tested in unexpected ways. Gemma’s resolve to prove her innocence against Reyna’s accusations may lead to shocking revelations about friendships, loyalty, and the lengths people will go to protect their interests. Readers can anticipate a whirlwind of emotions as alliances shift and the truth hangs dangerously in the balance. Will Cassian finally see through Reyna’s facade, or will he remain ensnared in her web of deceit? The next chapter promises to unravel the tangled threads of their relationships, leaving everyone questioning who can truly be trusted as the rain of revelations begins to fall.
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