Page 64 of Protected By My Playboy Billionaire

He jumps off the couch as if scorched, looking down at the seat and then up at me.

“Low fucking blow, bro.” With a scowl, he walks over to the armchair and eyes it suspiciously.

“It’s safe.” I let out a laugh and take a seat on the couch. I grab my beer from the coffee table and bring it to my lips, taking a sip.

“I wanted to tell you something,” I begin, taking a deep breath. Ethan raises a brow and sinksinto the armchair. “But before I do, I just want to make sure I keep my face intact this time.”

Ethan laughs, shaking his head. “You’re never going to let that go, are you?”

“I’m still traumatized,” I joke, grinning.

“Good,” Ethan retorts, a smile tugging at his lips. “What is it?”

“You know I’ve been waiting for Elana to graduate before asking her to marry me,” I begin, and Ethan nods. “Yesterday, I asked your dad for his blessing, and he gave it to me.”

“Jesus, man.” Ethan laughs, throwing his head back. “What year are you living in?”

“Not all of us are frat boys through and through, asshole,” I bite out with amusement. “Listen, alright? I want to take you guys to the lake house in the Hamptons tonight. Your parents already know about it. I have everything planned. I’ll propose to her there, and we’ll spend the night. I know you’re flying back to LA tomorrow, so I’m taking Elana to Italy. I’ve arranged a car to take us straight to the airport after breakfast. From there, it’s Tuscany and wherever else she wants to go.”

“Damn, man.” Ethan whistles, raising both brows. “Can I volunteer as your fiancé if she says no?”

“You wouldn’t last a day.” I laugh, leaning back.

Ethan looks at me and smiles. “I’m really happy for you, brother. You both deserve this.” He raises his beer, and I do the same, both of us taking a sip. “Take care of her.”

“Always,” I promise.

We arrived at my lake house in the Hamptons as the sun began to set, casting a warm, golden glow over the water. I look up at the building before me. It’s a three-story house with a wrap-around porch with and stone and wood elements. It doesn’t have a dock since it’s on the shore of the lake, but I had a little firepit built that serves as an outdoor dining area, which is where we’re currently having our dinner tonight.

“Adrian, this place is stunning,” Elana says, her eyes sparkling. “I can’t believe we haven’t been here before.” Her parents are talking to Ethan, which gives me the chance to give Elana my undividedattention.

“I’m glad you like it, little duck,” I reply, smiling. “I have a surprise for you.”

Her eyes narrow playfully. “Another surprise? You’re full of them lately.”

I chuckle and glance over at the others. “Excuse us for a moment.” I rise from my chair and extend a hand to my girl. “Come with me,” I say softly.

She takes my hand, curiosity lighting up her face.

“Where are we going?” she asks, her voice full of excitement.

“You’ll see.” I kiss her knuckles, my chest swelling with anticipation.

We walk down to the shore where a small boat is waiting, its edges adorned with soft fairy lights. I help her into the boat and climb in myself. Elana looks at me and smiles. I’m going to see that smile for the rest of my life… if she says yes. I start the engine, steering us across the tranquil lake. The water reflects the lights from the house, making it look like we’re surrounded by fairy lights. I don’t care if it’s cheesy as long as my girl loves it just as much as I do.

“It looks magical. Adrian, this is so beautiful.” Elana beams, her voice filled with wonder. “Where are you taking me?”

“Patience,” I reply, my heart pounding in my chest.

We reach the other side of the lake, where the cliff looms above us. I help Elana out of the boat and guide her up the path lined with lanterns. As we reach the top, she gasps. The cliff is decorated with lights and flower petals, and a little picnic is set up with blankets and cushions.

They’ve done their job well.This is exactly how I’d imagined it. I wanted to do everything myself, but I didn’t have time with Elana’s graduation and her family coming to town.My family.

“Stop,” she whispers in disbelief, her eyes wide with amazement. “Adrian, this is gorgeous!” She jumps up and down and turns to face me.

“You haven’t seen the best part,” I say, leading her to the edge of the cliff.

As she looks down, her mouth falls open. I follow her, looking down, and take the sight in.