Rayna drove slowly through the estate gates, admiring the serene beauty of Evelyn's new home. Parking outside, she smiled, impressed with Evelyn's choice. Grabbing a tray of appetizers and a box of desserts, she approached the door. Evelyn opened it before Rayna could knock, greeting her with a wide smile and a warm hug.

"Ray! You made it!" Evelyn exclaimed.

"Of course! You know I wouldn't miss this for the world," Rayna replied, stepping back, her eyes sparkling. "This neighborhood is amazing. You've really outdone yourself."

Evelyn laughed, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "I'm just glad everything came together. I've been running around like crazy since we moved in, but it's finally starting to feel like home."

Stepping inside, Rayna admired the high ceilings and inviting décor. "It's gorgeous, Evie. Truly. I love the open-plan kitchen," she said approvingly. "And here, I brought some sweet treats," she added, offering the desserts. Evelyn grinned. "Thanks. Derek will love these. Come on in," she said, taking the box as they headed to the kitchen.

"Where's Derek?" Rayna asked, setting the appetizers on the dining table.

"He's on his way. Caught up in a meeting, but he should be here soon," Evelyn replied, placing the desserts on the counter.

"You've got enough food here to feed an army, Rayna!" Evelyn teased, eyeing the treats.

"Well, I figured you'd be too busy to bake anything," Rayna grinned. "Plus, it's your housewarming, so I had to go all out."

Evelyn chuckled. "I don't know what I'd do without you."

"Exactly as you did for six years without me," Rayna said dryly, making Evelyn giggle.

"You're never going to let that go, are you?" Evelyn said.

"Nope. Never," Rayna replied, arranging the desserts on a tray while Evelyn finished preparing the meal. "What about Maya and Sammy?"

"Maya's keeping Samantha entertained in her bedroom. I was just finishing up in the kitchen."

Rayna smiled. "Good. Now, fill me in! What's it been like working with Sandra these past few days? Is she still trying to steal your phone?"

Evelyn giggled. "Of course! She's getting more frustrated by the day, though. I almost feel sorry for her."

"So, anyone else coming to the housewarming?" Rayna asked. Evelyn wondered how Rayna would react to hearing Ethan was coming.

Instead of answering, she popped a meatball in her mouth. "Mm, this is divine," she said, changing the subject. "Your husband's going to be a very lucky man, whoever he is," she added, knowing it would tease Rayna. Rayna's eyes lit up mischievously. "Oh, by the way, I have some juicy news."

Evelyn raised an eyebrow, leading Rayna on a quick tour. "Oh? Is this about him?" she asked with a knowing smile.

"It is! So," Rayna began, brimming with excitement. "I think I'm in love with him, Ev. Seriously. I can't stop thinking about him, and we haven't even met yet!"

Evelyn laughed softly, guiding her through the living room. "We both know you fall fast, Ray, but you sound serious this time."

"I am!" Rayna insisted. "I can't wait to see him. And guess what? I'm planning on… well, you know… taking things to the next level when we meet."

Evelyn's eyes widened. "Already? Isn't that a bit soon?"

Rayna waved her hand dismissively. "My heart's connected to my… you know… and trust me, it's not soon enough." Evelyn burst out laughing. "Ray, you're impossible! I don't know how we're friends."

"I know, but he's perfect," Rayna said dreamily. "We've been talking non-stop for days, and it's like we're completely in sync. I've never felt this way before. He totally gets me. And guess what? We're meeting Saturday. Our first date is at the reunion!"

Evelyn's brows furrowed. "You don't even know what he looks like. What if he's not… you know… physically what you expect?"

"Oh, trust me, I know he'll be everything I want. The universe can't be that unfair," Rayna said. Evelyn nodded.

"I hope he is, Ray. I really want you to be happy," Evelyn said.

"Yeah. Thanks," Rayna replied as they went upstairs. "You know where I'm most curious to see? Your bedroom. You made sure there's a best friend room, right?"

Evelyn giggled. "Sure. Come with me," she said, leading the way to the guest room.

As they disappeared upstairs, Derek entered with Ethan. "Wow. This place looks nice, and it smells even better," Ethan commented, and Derek chuckled. "Make yourself comfortable while I find Eve," Derek said, leaving Ethan in the living room.

Drawn by the aroma from the dining room, Ethan approached, carrying a bottle of wine. He saw the delicious appetizers and desserts, his stomach rumbling. He set down the wine and quickly ate a meatball. He was still savoring it when Derek returned with Evelyn.

"Babe, this is Ethan. Ethan Fischer. Ethan, this is the love of my life, Evelyn Quinn," Derek said, introducing them.

Before Ethan could swallow, Rayna, having used the restroom, emerged behind Evelyn and Derek. She froze in the doorway, her eyes locking with Ethan's. Her heart skipped a beat. Ethan, choking on an appetizer, coughed, his face turning red.