Chapter 36 Rachel felt some of her anxiety ease from Lancey's infectious warmth . Following her into the living room , she immediately noticed two distinguished gentlemen seated on the elegant sofa . One was Cassian's father , lan Rhodes - a commanding presence in his perfectly tailored navy suit . His expression was serious but not unwelcoming as he studied her with sharp , assessing eyes . The other was Cassian's grandfather , a silver haired patriarch whose advanced age couldn't diminish his obvious vitality . His eyes sparkled with kindness as he smiled warmly at her . Cassian stepped forward respectfully . " Dad , Grandfather , this is Rachel , my wife . " Rachel moved closer , offering a graceful nod . " Mr. Rhodes , it's wonderful to meet you both . I'm Rachel . " She presented the carefully chosen gifts she'd brought - premium Scottish whiskey for the men and elegant silk scarves for Lancey . Their approving smiles indicated she'd chosen well . Good - this girl understood proper etiquette . lan's voice was measured and authoritative . " Please , sit down . Make yourself comfortable . " Grandfather Rhodes beckoned her closer with twinkling eyes . " Come here , dear . Let me get a proper look at you . " Rachel approached him obediently . After studying her thoughtfully , the old man nodded with obvious satisfaction . " Excellent choice , Cass . You've got good taste . " He reached into his jacket and withdrew an elegant velvet jewelry box . " My dear , this is a little welcome gift . I hope you'll like it . " Rachel opened the box carefully and gasped . Inside was a stunning emerald and diamond tennis bracelet that looked like it belonged in a museum . Having worked in jewelry design , she could immediately tell this piece was worth millions - probably an antique from a famous house like Cartier or Van Cleef . ' Sir , this is absolutely gorgeous , but I couldn't possibly accept something so valuable , " she protested genuinely . Everyone exchanged pleased glances . This girl had character - not grasping or materialistic despite clearly recognizing the bracelet's worth . " Nonsense , dear . Once I give a gift , it's given . This is just a small token of my affection , " Grandfather Rhodes insisted warmly . Cassian moved closer , his voice gentle but firm . " Ana , please accept it . Grandfather chose it especially for you . " Then Ian and Lancey produced their own welcome gifts . A stunning pearl necklace from Lancey , keys to a new Mercedes from Ian , and - most shocking of all - deeds to a penthouse apartment in SoHo . The pile of gifts in front of Rachel was overwhelming . This was absolutely insane . These weren't gifts - they were investments . Her hands actually trembled holding the property deeds . She couldn't help remembering her first meeting with Megan Hale , who'd looked her up and down with obvious disdain and given her exactly nothing except attitude . " This is … this is incredibly generous , but it's far too much … " Rachel's voice caught with emotion . What had started as a marriage of convenience was beginning to feel like she'd won the family lottery . Chapter 36 Cassian moved to her side , gently taking the papers from her shaking hands and placing them on the coffee table . " When my family gives gifts , they're given with love . You don't need to feel guilty about accepting them - we're your family no Looking up at him , Rachel felt her eyes misting with unexpected tears . " But these things are worth more than most people make in a lifetime . I can't … " 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.