After hanging up with Derek, Evelyn felt a flood of relief and anticipation. She rushed to open the door, and the moment Rayna walked in and closed the door behind her, Evelyn threw her arms around her in a warm, tight hug. "Thanks for coming," she said, her voice full of gratitude.

Rayna tilted her head back, raising an eyebrow with a playful smile. "What's with all the excitement, Evie? We just saw each other yesterday. Why are you acting like we haven't seen each other in years?"

Evelyn laughed, embarrassed, brushing a stray hair behind her ear. "Well, I've been anxious all morning, and I barely slept last night. I'm just happy to see you. Your presence will keep me distracted," she said. Rayna raised an eyebrow. Her playful smile softened into concern. "Distracted from what, exactly? What's going on? Is it something with Sandra? Did she attempt something?" she asked, her voice growing serious.

Evelyn took a deep breath, glancing around. "Yes, actually. But come in, let's sit down; this isn't something we can discuss standing here," she said, leading Rayna into the cozy living room.

As they settled onto the couch, Rayna looked around, frowning slightly. "The house is so quiet. Where is everyone? Is Derek out with Sam?"

Evelyn shook her head, gesturing toward the staircase. "Sam is upstairs drawing. Maya stepped out for a bit."

Rayna opened her handbag, pulled out a packet of cookies, and handed them to Evelyn. "This is for Sam."

Evelyn smiled, shaking her head. "You spoil her too much! I swear she's had more sugar since she met you than in her whole life."

Rayna laughed, a twinkle in her eyes. "What else can you expect from an aunt who bakes? Now, enough small talk. Tell me what's happening. What's really going on, Evelyn?"

Taking another steadying breath, Evelyn began. "So, after our shopping trip yesterday, I came home to find my parents here with Derek. He invited them and his parents"

"Weren't you all supposed to meet on Sunday? Don't tell me Derek proposed last night," Rayna said, narrowing her eyes as her gaze fell on Evelyn's finger.

"No. Of course not. I'm sure he wouldn't do that without you," Evelyn said, and Rayna nodded with approval.

"I just wanted to be sure you know it, and he knows it too. If he had proposed, I would have seized the ring, and he would have done it all again in front of me," Rayna said with a grin, and Evelyn laughed, feeling thankful for Rayna's good humor. "So, as I was saying, Derek invited both our parents over"

Rayna rolled her eyes, pretending to yawn. "Can you cut to the chase, Evie?"

Evelyn took a shaky breath before blurting it out. "Sandra plans to kill Michael and me tonight."

Rayna's expression shifted instantly, her mouth hanging open in shock. "What? Sandra? Tonight? Are you serious?" Shock froze her in place.

Evelyn nodded. She poured out every detail of the plan, the danger Sandra posed, Derek's efforts to thwart her, and how they had decided to involve Michael. When she was done, Rayna just sat there silently, shaking her head in disbelief and anger.

"This is both sad and annoying," Rayna muttered, anger flickering in her eyes. "I'm sad for your stepmother. That beautiful woman doesn't deserve an evil daughter like Sandra. How could Sandra even think of doing this to you? You are her sister, for crying out loud! And now you have to hide for weeks?"

Evelyn nodded slowly. "Yeah. Just until Derek's mother's birthday. I hope you will visit me often," she added with a small, hopeful smile.

Rayna reached out and squeezed Evelyn's hand. "Of course I will. You don't even need to ask," Rayna said firmly. "I can do your grocery shopping, run errands whatever you need, just say the word." Evelyn's lips curved into a small, grateful smile. "Thank you, Ray. But that won't be necessary. I'll be getting domestic staff by Monday."

A comfortable silence fell between them as they absorbed the situation's weight. After a moment, Evelyn looked at Rayna with a soft expression. "Enough about my troubles. How are you? And how's the situation with Ethan?"

Rayna's face fell slightly, her expression turning resigned. "Well, I've been thinking about it since last night, and I've decided to let go. I made a mistake at the club, but I know my worth, Evie. I don't want to be with a man who holds grudges or judges me so harshly for a single mistake. It doesn't matter what we thought we shared. It's not worth it if he's so petty. I want a nice gentleman who treats me with respect and kindness."

Evelyn nodded, understanding in her eyes. "I thought about that too. I think you're making the right choice. You don't deserve to be treated this way. You deserve someone who values you."

Rayna gave a small, determined nod. "Exactly. I've deleted his number, our chats, even his emails. I'm done. Maybe I'll consider a dating site later, but only when I'm ready. I don't want to seem desperate." Evelyn smiled, covering Rayna's hand with hers. "You're an incredible person, Ray. You deserve only the best, and I know you will find it."

Rayna smiled, squeezing Evelyn's hand back. "Thanks, Evie. I really hope so." A flicker of laughter brightened Rayna's eyes. "Now, enough unpleasant talk. Let's focus on distracting you and making you laugh."