Chapter 21 Saturday afternoon , Cassian arrived carrying an impressive collection of luxury gifts . Premium aged Scotch , organic honey from New Zealand , artisanal olive oil from Tuscany , and a selection of gourmet teas - thoughtful presents that showed respect without being ostentatious . When Cassian stood at the front door , his dark eyes caught the afternoon light like polished steel Rachel's heart immediately went into overdrive . " Nervous ? " Cassian noticed her flushed cheeks and rapid breathing . " Give me your hand . " " What ? " Rachel blinked in confusion . His clean , masculine scent - something expensive and understated - surrounded her , making her pulse spike even higher " Your hand , " he repeated with patient amusement . Rachel obediently extended her hand , and Cassian immediately captured it in his warm grip . His palm was strong and reassuring , his thumb tracing gentle circles against her skin that sent electric shivers up her arm . Her heart hammered against her ribs as heat flooded her face and crept down her neck . " Cassian , what are you … " Her voice came out shaky as she tried to pull away , but his grip only tightened . He looked down at her with laser focus , a slight smile tugging at his lips . " Hold still . I've got something for you . " He reached into his jacket pocket and placed a small wrapped peppermint in her palm . Rachel stared at it , completely bewildered . " This is … " " For when you're stressed . Peppermint helps with anxiety . " His voice was completely serious , his gaze so intense it seemed to see straight through her . The warmth from his hand felt like it was flowing directly into her bloodstream . Rachel felt like her heart might actually explode from her chest . She was too flustered to wonder why someone like Cassian Rhodes would carry candy around like some kind of considerate Boy Scout . " Thanks , " she managed , clutching the mint . " Come on , Grandma's waiting . " Cassian followed her inside , immediately spotting the elderly woman seated on the living room sofa . He approached with perfect manners . " Mrs Paige , it's wonderful to meet you . I'm Cassian Rhodes , an your granddaughter . " ompletely crazy about Elisabeth looked up , her breath catching slightly . The man before her was tall , devastatingly handsome , and radiated the kind of quiet confidence that came with serious power . His respectful demeanor was night and day compared to Jasper's barely concealed impatience during his rare visits . " So you're the one Ana mentioned ? " Elisabeth's tone carried healthy skepticism . 12:17 Game Over , Mafia Boss ! Now Pay in Blood For Killing Our Three Kids 15.6 % Chapter 21 This man seemed almost too good to be true - she needed to gauge his sincerity . Cassian stepped closer and intertwined his fingers with Rachel's . " Yes ma'am . Honestly , I've had feelings for Ana for a while now t respected her previous relationship , but now that she's available , I'm hoping you'll give me the chance to prove I can make her happy . " Rachel felt like she'd been hit by lightning . She stole a glance at Cassian's profile , noting his completely earnest expression . If she didn't know their actual story , she'd believe every word . Elisabeth studied them both carefully , then nodded slowly . " Cassian , I can tell you're a decent man . If you genuinely care for our Ana , then you better treat her right . She's got a soft heart - don't you dare break it . " Cassian's response was immediate and solemn . " You have my word , Mrs. Paige . I'll take care of her . " Rachel stood listening to this exchange , emotions swirling through her chest like a tornado . She peeked at Cassian again , watching him make what sounded like genuine promises to her grandmother . Part of her felt off - balance , but another part felt unexpectedly secure . Elisabeth smiled and patted Cassian's hand . " Good . I trust you . Now sit down - I'm making my famous pot roast and mashed potatoes Hope you're hungry . " She headed toward the kitchen , leaving them alone . " Thank you , " Rachel said quietly , knowing her grandmother's approval meant everything . " Don't thank me . " Cassian's voice was surprisingly gentle . " We're married now . And I wasn't just feeding your grandmother a line - I meant what I said . " The sincerity in his eyes made her breath catch all over again . Title: 8 Years Wasted: Now Payback Time, My Ex! Author: CrushReel Genre: Romance, Modern Status: ongoing In "8 Years Wasted: Now Payback Time, My Ex!" by CrushReel, follow the tumultuous journey of Deron Crane, the heir to Crane Corp. For nearly a decade, he selflessly catered to every desire of Beth Hart, unaware of her clandestine alliance with his own brother, Odin Crane. This betrayal ultimately leads to Deron's unforeseen downfall... Delve into the intricate dynamics of love, loyalty, and deception as Deron navigates through the complexities of his relationships with Beth and Odin. The novel explores themes of trust shattered and hearts broken against the backdrop of modern romance. Amidst family intrigue and romantic turmoil, Deron's resilience is put to the test as he seeks retribution for the years lost in devotion. What sets "8 Years Wasted: Now Payback Time, My Ex!" apart is its compelling portrayal of human emotions entwined in a web of deceit and love gone awry. With a blend of romance and modern storytelling, CrushReel crafts a narrative that resonates with readers seeking depth and authenticity in their reading experience. Experience the gripping saga firsthand by reading "8 Years Wasted: Now Payback Time, My Ex!" available online at CrushReel. Explore a tale that transcends typical romance genres and immerses you in a world where betrayals lead to unexpected revelations.