“And, uh, I think if Frisco is still willing, we can work out a deal.”
Frisco grabbed the phone. “Tell Val that shopping spree at Chanel is on.” He drew in a deep breath, exhaling in a noisy rush. “Seriously, Mike, it’s going to work out for the best. You’ll see.”
“I appreciate the chance. I’m sorry I didn’t see it right away.”
“It’s not a chance. I’m all about winning. Failure is not an option. We’ll talk tomorrow, and I’ll have my lawyers draw up the papers.”
“’K. G’night.”
“’Nite, Mikey. Talk to you tomorrow.”
The call disconnected, and Frisco and I sat staring at each other until I started laughing. “You’re going to own a restaurant called Mangia.”
His smile was pained. “Don’t remind me. Try and control your hilarity. You’re enjoying this way too much.”
A year ago I sat in this dark apartment, alone and lonely. Now all I saw was light and laughter.
“I am. Look how far we’ve come. We started out hating each other, and with you never stepping out of your golden circle. Now we’re together, and you’re going to be part owner of a restaurant.”
“Called Mangia. And working with your brother.” His eyes danced. “I don’t know which is harder to believe.”
“Both.” I kissed him, my lips lingering on his. He stroked my face, and my heart tumbled from my chest and flew to join his. I’d done the unthinkable and fallen in love with this wild, impossible, crazy, yet intoxicating and desirable man. “You said it would never happen. And I told you, never say never. Anything can happen if you want it bad enough.”
Frisco’s smile rivaled the brightness of the summer sun. “Close your eyes and get ready for anything, then. Because when it comes down to it, all I really want is you.”
