The Billionaire’s Unexpected Proposal (Evelyn and Derek) novel Chapter 144

Chapter 144

Rayna sat in her office at her bakery on Wednesday, leaning back in her chair with her legs casually propped on her desk and a silly smile on her face as she chatted with ET over the phone.

The bakery's usual hum of activity filled the background, but Rayna was focused on the conversation.

"So, your turn," Rayna said, twirling a pencil in her hand, "What's one thing you've always wanted in a partner but have never found?"

Ethan's voice came through her phone, warm and relaxed. "Hmm, that's a good one. I think it would be someone who understands me, you know? Not just the surface stuff but what makes me tick. Someone who can challenge me but also be my peace."

Rayna smiled, lowering the pencil. "I get that. I'm kind of the same. I need someone who's ambitious but also knows how to relax. Balance is important."

"Exactly! It's all about balance. You get it." Ethan agreed.

"Of course I do," Rayna said with a proud smile.

"Now, your turn. What's your favorite movie of all time? This is important," he said, eager to see if she would tick his box in her movie choice as she had been ticking other boxes.

Rayna's laughter rumbled through the phone, soft and warm. "Oof, that's a tough one. I'd have to go with The Princess Bride. I mean, come on, it's perfect! Romance, adventure, sword fights..."

"Hm. Not a bad choice. Mine is The Matrix. It's a classic," he said, and Rayna smiled, rolling her eyes.

"Predictable. But not bad. I've got another important question for you," she said since they were taking turns asking questions.

"Lay it on me, baby," he said, and she grinned.

Somehow, in the last couple of days, he had switched to calling her baby, and each time he did, she felt warm all over.

"If you could have dinner with anyone, dead or alive, who would it be?" Rayna's voice carried a playful edge, but Ethan could sense her curiosity.

"My grandfather. He passed away when I was young, but he was the wisest man I knew. I'd love to have just one more conversation with him," Ethan said, his tone softening slightly.

There was a brief silence as Rayna smiled, touched by his answer. "That's really sweet."

"Thanks. What about you?"

She giggled, tapping the pen against her lips.

"Honestly? Probably Michael Jackson. Sorry, I don't have a response as deep as yours," she said, and Ethan chuckled.

"It's all about balance, remember? We both can't be too serious all the time," He said, and they shared a laugh before Ethan's tone turned curious. "So, what are your plans this weekend? Maybe we can meet up?"

Rayna leaned back, closing her eyes with a contented smile. "I'd love to, but I have my high school reunion on Saturday. Maybe Sunday?"

Ethan thought for a moment. "Sunday works, but..." he trailed off, thinking about something more spontaneous.

"But what?" Rayna asked curiously.

There was a pause, and then Ethan's laugh filled the room. "You know, I could come to the reunion with you on Saturday instead."

Rayna opened her eyes, blinking in surprise. "Wait, what?" Rayna burst out laughing, shaking her head in disbelief.

"Yeah, why not?" Ethan said, still chuckling. "Let's see how many people can guess we've never met in person before. I bet we could totally pull it off. We'd walk in, and everyone would just assume we've known each other forever."

Rayna grinned, picturing the scene. "I know, right?

They'd never guess it's our first time meeting."

"I know it's a crazy idea," Ethan said, and she nodded.

"It is indeed a crazy idea, and that is why I love it. It'd be fun! Plus, it'd give us the perfect excuse to spend the whole day together. You know what? You're on. Let's do it," she said with a grin that Ethan could practically hear through the phone.

"You crazy matches my crazy. Why are you so perfect me, baby?" Ethan asked, the smile clear in his voice.

She bit her lip, considering it. "Maybe because I'm your soul mate, who knows?" She asked, and Ethan laughed.