Page 8 of Designing Love
PLAN IN MOTION
Ethan
Iwatch Sophia’s graceful retreat through the coffee shop door, the soft bell echoing as she exits to the sunlit street. For a moment, my thoughts linger on how her laughter filled the small space, brightening every corner effortlessly. My heart continues an uneven rhythm, a mix of embarrassment from my earlier near-faceplant and the unfamiliar warmth spreading through my chest.
“Earth to Ethan.”
I startle slightly, blinking rapidly as Claire slides into the seat across from me, smirking knowingly.
“What?” I ask defensively, trying to hide my flush behind my coffee mug.
“Oh, nothing,” she drawls sarcastically. Her eyes dance mischievously as she rests her elbows on the table, chin in hand. “Just watching you stare at the door like a puppy whose owner left them alone for the first time.”
I groan softly, dropping my head onto my folded arms. “Is it that obvious?”
“Painfully.” Claire chuckles, nudging my elbow. “So, spill. Who was that?”
“Sophia,” I mumble into my sleeve, lifting my head just enough to meet Claire’s amused gaze. “She’s Sage’s niece. Just got into town.”
Her eyebrows shoot up. “Sage’s niece? Oh, this just got interesting. Do you think she’s as quirky as Sage?”
“I don’t know!” I protest weakly, wishing I could have had more time with her. “We just... talked. And I nearly knocked myself unconscious trying to impress her, so I doubt she’ll want to see me again.”
“Oh, I saw that show!” Claire laughs openly. “But you underestimate how charming your klutziness can be. It’s practically your trademark.”
I roll my eyes, sighing heavily. “Thanks for the pep talk, Claire.”
“Anytime,” she says sweetly, patting my hand sympathetically.
I grimace slightly, sipping my coffee to hide my expression.
“So,” Claire continues smoothly, mercifully shifting gears. “Beers tonight? It’s been forever since we caught up properly. And I need the lowdown on why this passerby has seduced my friend.”
“Definitely. Let’s grab a beer,” I agree eagerly, already formulating an idea.
Claire laughs, knowing I’ll try deflecting her upcoming inquisition. But instead, I head in a completely different direction.
“Actually, remember my plan to buy the Miller house and flip it?”
She narrows her eyes suspiciously. “Kind of. Where are you going with this?”
I chuckle, standing up and tossing some bills on the counter. “I’ll tell you tonight. Meet at The Old Oak?”
“Deal. Can’t wait to see what disaster you’re planning next.”
I roll my eyes, pretending annoyance even as laughter escapes me. “Thanks for the vote of confidence.”
She waves me off casually. “It’s what friends are for.”
Stepping out into the fresh air of Main Street, I inhale deeply, my pulse quickening at the thought of my impulsive plan. Maybe Claire’s right — and maybe a little disaster is exactly what I need.
* * *
The bell over the realtor’s office door jingles harshly as I step inside, instantly assaulted by the overpowering smell of cheap cologne and stale coffee. Simon Baxter — town realtor, notorious gossip, and my personal headache — leans back in his chair, grinning like a Cheshire cat who just caught a mouse.
“Ethan! To what do I owe this unexpected yet delightful interruption of my afternoon nap — I mean, workday?” Simon’s voice drips with slick charm, matched only by his over-the-top glamourous three-piece suit.Who wears a three-piece suit to work in a quaint, charming small town?
“Simon,” I greet cautiously, reluctantly shaking his overly enthusiastic hand. “I’m here to inquire about a house.”
