Sunset in Central Park (From Manhattan with Love #2) - Sarah Morgan Page 0,117

to use your imagination.” Nerves fluttered in her stomach. “It’s a ring. Maybe not the prettiest ring, or the most valuable ring, but that isn’t what counts, is it? It’s symbolic.”

His expression changed. “Is it?”

“Yes. It signifies how much I love you.”

There was a gleam in his eyes. “You love me as much as a can of cola?”

“In case you hadn’t noticed I love diet cola, so in fact, that would be a lot.” She knew he was teasing her, but suddenly her courage faltered. “Of course, if you’ve changed your mind—”

“I am never going to change my mind, and it so happens I’ve been carrying something around, too.” He dug his hand into his pocket and pulled out a box. “This is for you.”

She stared at the box, recognizing the delicate logo of Tempest Designs, Skylar’s company. “This is from Emily’s store on Puffin Island. You already bought me a starfish necklace—”

“This isn’t a starfish necklace. Open it.”

She took it from him and discovered that her fingers were shaking. Flipping open the lid, she saw a large diamond in an unusual and beautiful setting. “Oh. Oh, Matt. You bought this when we were on the island?”

“Yes.” He took the ring and slid it onto her finger. “Francesca Cole, will you marry me?”

She could hardly breathe. “That depends—”

His gaze grew wary. “On—?”

“On whether you can keep up with my sex drive. I’ve wasted a lot of time.”

The corners of his mouth flickered. “Are you flirting with me?”

“I don’t know how to flirt. I’m telling the truth.” She slid her arms around his neck and pressed her mouth to his. “Have I scared you?”

He gave a slow smile. “Nowhere near as much as you scared Eddy.”

“I was thinking that we could let Roxy stay in my apartment as long as she needs to.”

“You’re going to move more than your toothbrush?”

“I think it’s time. Does this mean I get to adopt your cat, too?”

“I’m afraid so. Does that affect your answer?”

“No. I want to marry you, Matt.” She eased her mouth away from his, happiness engulfing her like a burst of sunshine. She was marrying him. She was marrying Matt. Her best friend. Her lover. “So is that it? Have we finished here?”

“Finished? I haven’t even started.” And then he was kissing her, a hot, hard kiss that made her brain melt and her limbs shaky.

When he finally lifted his head, Frankie realized they’d attracted a small crowd of people, some with cameras, all of them watching with rapt attention.

“Oops.” She buried her face in Matt’s chest. “This is embarrassing.”

He grinned. “Honey, this is New York City. The most romantic destination on the planet. The department of tourism will thank us.”

And he kissed her again, until happiness rippled through her and the last rays of the sun set over Central Park.

* * * * *

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

I’m grateful to all my wonderful readers. So many of you take time to email and chat to me on Facebook, and your kind comments and supportive messages always make my day. To those of you who take the time to leave reviews and post about my books on social media—thank you a million times. It really helps!

To all the wonderful bloggers who are always so kind, enthusiastic and vocal about my books, I’m so grateful for your time, energy and support.

Seeing my books on sale around the world is a dream come true for me, made real by the team at Harlequin, who has always encouraged me to write whatever story excited me. I’m fortunate to have such fantastic support from my publisher.

I definitely struck lucky the day I was given Flo Nicoll as my editor. Working with her is such fun, and I’m thankful for the vision, patience and enthusiasm she displays as we work together on each book.

I’m grateful to my agent, Susan Ginsburg, and the team at Writers House for everything they do.

I have the best family in the world and I’m continually grateful for their unwavering support. You’re the best!

“Morgan’s brilliant talent never ceases to amaze.”

—RT Book Reviews

USA TODAY bestselling author Sarah Morgan brings you From Manhattan with Love, a sparkling new trilogy about three best friends embracing life—and love—in New York.

Meet cool, calm and competent Paige Walker in Sleepless in Manhattan. Paige loves a challenge but can she convince the man who trusts no one to take a chance on forever?

In the chaos of New York, true love can be hard to find, even when it’s been right under your