As we are near the end of the book, Parker and Elle have been through so much together. Conversations about the important things, days out enjoying the “not-so-important” things that are important, nonetheless. Elle and Parker share a wonderful night together before things go very well and then very bad.
Parker definitely took the “grand romantic gesture” series. He takes Elle to an empty New York street and does something a little bit crazy. He proposes. What did you think of this grand gesture?
Elle is very happy and says yes to Parker until he presents her with her dream apartment. Do you think this was a step too far from Parker? Or do you think that much like Elle’s mom, Elle needs to let go of her pride sometimes?
Do you agree with Penelope that Elle is the one who is obsessed with money despite knowing people like Parker and her sister Cali?
What do you think of Elle’s mother leaving that note on one of Elle’s scripts? Do you almost wish this was something said to Elle in person?
When Elle returns to New York she looks for her townhouse and quickly realizes that it was a love letter to her and Parker’s relationship. Do you think that had she seen it that day over a year and a half ago, she wouldn’t have left Parker?
Elle and Parker are an inevitable couple. What do you think of their second summer together? The summer where they get to know each other and work on creating a life together?
16 responses to “Summer in the City – Day Seven”
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1. Parker’s proposal was epic! The thought behind each aspect and the fine details he remembered about her, like buying 92 rings for each day they were together. Who wouldn’t fall in love with that? It was grander than grand!
2. Though I understand why Elle was really upset about his purchase of the townhouse; I would be too, the extreme reaction of breaking things off with Parker felt unnecessary. Yes, she should recognize when her pride is getting in the way and when a calm conversation is needed. This is a man who literally blocked off busy streets in New York for her!
3. This gave me a new perspective on the idea of obsession with money. We often think of it as people always wanting more money, yet with Elle, she doesn’t want to hear about anyone’s money at all. Her upbringing clearly affected her in this regard.
4. I wish it had been said to her in person, but alas, the circumstances had already been set for Elle. Still, what perfect timing for her to discover this. Her mum clearly realized she hadn’t shown Elle the right way to accept help from others.
5. As strong-headed as Elle is, I think this would have explained a lot for her, and maybe her reaction wouldn’t have been so drastic! This also makes me feel that Parker, being the softy he is, should’ve gone further to help her see reason instead of just waiting.
6. I loved the part where they built a routine in each other’s lives. That’s such an important dynamic to establish in a relationship!
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I think that Parker’s heart was in the right place but there are still parts of Elle he needs to learn – they both still need to learn parts of each other and of themselves.
Objectively speaking, I don’t think Parker took it too far, I just think he didn’t fully grasp what it meant to Elle and how she may react to it. I don’t think he was in the wrong but I don’t think that Elle was in the right either. Because we get Elle’s POV only, we know what is going on in her head but Parker doesn’t. He wants to make her dreams come true and doesn’t realise that she wants to make her own dreams come true. I can understand Elle but I think yes, she is caught up in what her mother has taught her to the extent where she isn’t seeing things from Parker’s POV..
Yes, I do agree with Penelope that Elle is the one obsessed with money. Looking back on the book, it was constantly brought up by Elle. As a reader, I was getting annoyed by Elle’s obsession with it and how she would make Parker feel bad about it – even when he was willing to give back. She was so caught up in her own view and feelings about money that it left no room to see it from Parker or her sister’s POV.
I loved that Elle got the note from her mom. I think it left a greater impact on Elle finding the note than if her mom said in person. She’ll forever have that note to look back on and remember her mother by. It was sweet.
Who’s to say? Elle was too caught up in her feelings about the money that I think she would have been blinded to the love letter Parker had created. I don’t think it would have changed anything in the moment. Money would have always been an issue for Elle.
We knew that Elle and Parker were endgame; we just needed to see how they got to that point. I think their second summer was the perfect ending for them and this book. It felt like a full circle moment.
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1. Parker’s proposal was not unexpected, but Elle’s reaction to it was unpredictable. I thought it was sweet that he was still trying to help Elle paint over the bad memories of the city. If only, he had been less thorough
2. I think Parker just wanted to be a part of her life and this meant building their life together in that house – in her name. Elle didn’t give him a chance to articulate this and jumped to the wrong conclusion. I don’t think anybody should give up their pride for love – Elle’s problem is abusing her mother’s memory by putting her on a pedestal and glorifying her every choice.
3. Oh yeah! I was cheering for Penelope’s honesty. She said what I had been thinking about for a long time. Elle vilifies the wealthy, despite working for her own comfort. Her obsession and judgement has kept Cali at arm’s length, despite how much they used to be close.
4. Elle’s mother unintentionally damaged both her daughters emotionally. Her deathbed note was a step in the right direction and I do wish she had said it herself. However, given how Elle only values her scripts, perhaps this was for the best.
5. No, she still would have left him. Even after all the love he had poured into the house, she insisted on making her own changes. The timing was just off – she had a lot to work on personally.
6. I loved these moments! The painting was very sweet! The connection felt genuine, fun and intimate. I loved seeing them less guarded and just living.
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Q: Parker definitely took the “grand romantic gesture” series. He takes Elle to an empty New York street and does something a little bit crazy. He proposes. What did you think of this grand gesture?
A: I think it was the perfect proposal. I don’t think it’s ever been about money, Parker is a true romantic!Q: Elle is very happy and says yes to Parker until he presents her with her dream apartment. Do you think this was a step too far from Parker? Or do you think that much like Elle’s mom, Elle needs to let go of her pride sometimes?
A: I understand both their points of view. Although, Elle’s reaction was a sign that she needed to do some work on herself before being in a relationship.Q: Elle and Parker are an inevitable couple. What do you think of their second summer together? The summer where they get to know each other and work on creating a life together?
A: Loved this! The perfect ending.Q: Do you agree with Penelope that Elle is the one who is obsessed with money despite knowing people like Parker and her sister Cali?
A: Absolutely, it’s a trigger for her throughout the book.Q: What do you think of Elle’s mother leaving that note on one of Elle’s scripts? Do you almost wish this was something said to Elle in person?
A: I think the timing and impact of her finding the note was more meaningful now, rather than in the past.Q: When Elle returns to New York she looks for her townhouse and quickly realizes that it was a love letter to her and Parker’s relationship. Do you think that had she seen it that day over a year and a half ago, she wouldn’t have left Parker?
A: I think Elle would have still left. Something else would have triggered her to leave as she needed to work on herself. -
1. The Proposal on the Empty New York Street:
I actually think Parker’s grand romantic gesture was perfectly on brand for their relationship. It’s bold, a little dramatic, deeply sentimental — the kind of thing that says “I see you, I know you, and I’m all in.” It’s risky, sure, but I think Parker knew Elle well enough by then to take that leap.2. The Dream Apartment — a Step Too Far?
Parker wanted to give Elle something she’d always dreamed of, to show her she deserved all of it. Elle’s reaction kind of irritated me…I mean how can she be so BLIND, However…I can also see how Elle might feel it encroaches on her sense of independence. I don’t think it was a step too far in a malicious or careless sense though and I definitely think she overreacted way too much. Elle needs to loosen her grip on her pride. Love isn’t about keeping score or proving self-sufficiency at all costs. Vulnerability is a part of it, and Elle tends to struggle there.3. Penelope’s Comment About Money Obsession:
Finally someone said it!!!!! This was a sharp observation from Penelope. I don’t think Elle is obsessed with money in the obvious, materialistic sense, but she’s obsessed with what money represents — stability, worth, independence, control. In contrast to Parker and Cali, who both have a more relaxed relationship with wealth, Elle lets it define TOO much of her decision-making. So yes, Penelope’s not wrong, but it’s layered and comes from Elle’s upbringing and insecurities.4. The Note from Elle’s Mother:
I wish it had been said in person, absolutely. There’s something so important about hearing those words — especially for someone like Elle, who probably spent years craving that validation. The note was a step, but it would’ve been powerful (and healing) to have had that face-to-face.5. The Townhouse as a Love Letter:
If Elle had seen it a year and a half ago? I don’t think she would’ve left Parker. The townhouse was a metaphor for everything she said she wanted but was too scared to believe she deserved. It symbolized Parker’s patience, his love, and their shared dreams. Seeing it then might have broken down her walls sooner, but perhaps she wasn’t ready yet. Timing matters.6. Their Second Summer Together:
I adore this idea. The first time was fireworks and chaos, the second is about slow, intentional building. It’s them choosing each other on purpose every day. I think inevitable couples like Elle and Parker need that second chapter — not just the passion but the partnership. It’s a season of healing, compromise, and rediscovering each other without the drama of old wounds. -
Q: Parker definitely took the “grand romantic gesture” series. He takes Elle to an empty New York street and does something a little bit crazy. He proposes. What did you think of this grand gesture?
A: uhm. It was definitely surprising. I personally think that they need to work on themself a little first.Q: Elle is very happy and says yes to Parker until he presents her with her dream apartment. Do you think this was a step too far from Parker? Or do you think that much like Elle’s mom, Elle needs to let go of her pride sometimes?
A: I think Parker leans into his money too much. Elle literally told him that he can’t buy her love and then he keeps throwing money at her.Q: Do you agree with Penelope that Elle is the one who is obsessed with money despite knowing people like Parker and her sister Cali?
A: I don’t think she is the ONLY one obsessed with money. She is just the one that can’t embrace it? Like she HAS money, but she chooses to hat it because of her past trauma and self hatred.Q: What do you think of Elle’s mother leaving that note on one of Elle’s scripts? Do you almost wish this was something said to Elle in person?
A: I think Elle found it when she needed it most.Q: When Elle returns to New York she looks for her townhouse and quickly realizes that it was a love letter to her and Parker’s relationship. Do you think that had she seen it that day over a year and a half ago, she wouldn’t have left Parker?
A: Probably. She needed that break to realise a couple things.Q: Elle and Parker are an inevitable couple. What do you think of their second summer together? The summer where they get to know each other and work on creating a life together?
A: I’m hoping that they can figure out living together and loving the other the way that they need to be loved. I think both of them still need a lot of work to do on themselves and I hope that with communication and patience they can help each other🥹 -
Q: What did you think of this grand gesture?
A: It felt like it was way too soon and over the top for Elle’s personality. Especially the 90+ rings 😭Q: Do you think this was a step too far from Parker? Or do you think that much like Elle’s mom, Elle needs to let go of her pride sometimes?
A: She took pride too far and was way too obsessed with money. Having financial independence is great but not too the level of potentially ruining a great relationship.Q: Do you agree with Penelope that Elle is the one who is obsessed with money despite knowing people like Parker and her sister Cali?
A: Yes, I agree. She should have heard Parker out and she could have bought it from him. The fact that they took 18 months apart because of this was something 😭Q: What do you think of Elle’s mother leaving that note on one of Elle’s scripts? Do you almost wish this was something said to Elle in person?
A: No, I think it was a perfect discovery at the perfect time. It might not have meant anything to her back then.Q: When Elle returns to New York she looks for her townhouse and quickly realizes that it was a love letter to her and Parker’s relationship. Do you think that had she seen it that day over a year and a half ago, she wouldn’t have left Parker?
A: Maybe. It’s tough to say. She had to mature a bit and become over her money obsession while adjusting to not being anonymous anymore, before she could be with Parker.Q: Elle and Parker are an inevitable couple. What do you think of their second summer together? The summer where they get to know each other and work on creating a life together?
A: It was beautiful! Made me so sad that they missed out on quality time for 18 months though. -
1. This was the most swoon worthy proposal! His attention to detail when it came to Elle was simply unmatched!
2. Really swoony, and an epic proposal but yeah Parker might have taken things too far (90 odd rings is absolutely crazy!), especially considering Elle’s feelings about money! I do think Elle’s reaction was incredibly extreme, and running after basically accepting his proposal did feel so cruel!
3. Penelope was on the money with this! Elle was really obsessed about money and her pride! It was her ultimate downfall!
4. Absolutely. I think coming from her mom, it would have had the most impact, and ensured she balanced her feelings about money and her pride.
5. I think she still might have, because she wanted to be the one to make that purchase, and even though his intentions were good, he took away that freedom she so desperately craved.
6. It was a wonderful way to wrap up the story and paid tribute to the book as a whole. It made everything feel full circle and building that routine together made their relationship feel even more authentic at the end!
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♡I loved how bold and heartfelt it was. It totally fits Parker’s personality, romantic, dramatic, and all in. It felt like something out of a movie, but because we’ve seen their journey, it also felt earned. That said, I did wonder if it might’ve been too much too soon for Elle, especially considering how she processes big emotional moments.
♡This was such a complicated moment. On one hand, it was sweet, Parker listened, remembered her dream, and made it come true. But on the other hand, Elle’s pride and need for independence made it feel like a boundary had been crossed. I don’t think Parker meant any harm, but Elle wasn’t ready to receive that kind of gesture. Her pride might have gotten in the way, yes , but I get it. She needed to feel like an equal, not someone being taken care of.
♡Honestly… yes. Penelope had a point. Elle’s fear around money has shaped so many of her decisions, even when she’s surrounded by people like Parker and Cali, who don’t define themselves by it. It’s not that she loves money, it’s that she sees it as safety, control, freedom. That obsession runs deeper than she realizes.
♡So bittersweet. I wish she had said it face to face , Elle really needed to hear that from her mom. But at the same time, leaving the note was her way of showing love, even if it wasn’t perfect. It felt very real , sometimes the people who love us struggle to say the big things out loud.
♡I don’t think she would’ve left. If she had seen it then, she might’ve realized Parker truly saw her and wanted to build a life with her on her terms. But maybe she still needed that time apart to grow and understand herself better. Sometimes love needs space to take root.
♡I loved it. Their first summer was full of sparks, but this one felt real. They’re not just falling in love anymore , they’re choosing each other, even when it’s hard. They’re learning how to communicate, compromise, and be honest. It’s the kind of love that lasts, and it was so satisfying to see them get there
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Q: What did you think of this grand gesture?
A: I didn’t like it. I thought it was a bit flashy and out of the blue. I mean, a diamond ring for every day they’ve known each other? Too much lol.Q: Do you think this was a step too far from Parker? Or do you think that much like Elle’s mom, Elle needs to let go of her pride sometimes?
A: I think Parker had only good intentions and Elle was too quick to run away. She didn’t even give him a chance to speak.Q: What do you think of their second summer together? The summer where they get to know each other and work on creating a life together?
A: The first one was much more exciting.Q: Do you agree with Penelope that Elle is the one who is obsessed with money despite knowing people like Parker and her sister Cali?
A: Yes!! I’ve BEEN saying this. She makes it really weird.Q: What do you think of Elle’s mother leaving that note on one of Elle’s scripts? Do you almost wish this was something said to Elle in person?
A: Yes, but it’s probably good that she only read it now, having learnt her lesson.Q: Do you think that had she seen it that day over a year and a half ago, she wouldn’t have left Parker?
A: I think she wanted to leave and run away no matter what. So, yes she should have stayed and seen it, but I don’t think it would have stopped the inevitable. -
His proposal was sweet all the rings was OTT. The house i think she could have reacted a bit better and gone to see what he had done how they could make it theirs I also understand that she wanted to purchase it with her own money, it was in her name so they could have made an arrangement for her to pay for it..
Answered this above, but yes she needs to let go of her pride. In some ways she was more like her dad, obsessed with money and she was manipulating Parker to her needs and desires.
OMG I’m answering the next question in the previous one.
No I think it was right, she could keep the note and read it whenever she needed to hear those words from her mom.
She would need to go back for work but she probably would not have run away, and they could have worked around it together.
We know they were endgame and them doing things together now instead of Parker doing it all, was great, making the townhouse their home.
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Parker definitely takes a piece of the crown when it comes to grand romantic gestures, no doubt! However I think him proposing was a bit sudden.I know he loves her! Regardless tho its too soon especially since they’ve experienced so many issues that hasn’t been fully chatted about and put to rest. Also the zillion rings was excessive. I love you,Parker and I’m sorry but one ring would have sufficed or even renting out the store for her to pick ANY ring would have been swoon worthy and more appropriate.
• I think that was a very sweet gesture on his end. Again Parker doesn’t mean anything bad by these gestures. He loves her and wants to make her happy, give her the world and always see her smile. Is that so bad? Maybe Elle could have talked jt calmly with him and said “listen I wanted to buy this with my own money so maybe I can pay you back or half at least” and I know for a fact Parker would have been okay with that coz lets face it he is okay with whatever Elle wants. Elle totally needs to calm down with this whole money x mom thing. Again Parker isn’t her dad. He isn’t a bad man. So this doesn’t apply to him and she isn’t her mother either.
• Yes, Penelope really hit the nail on the head with that one. Thank you,Penelope!
• Yes, I wish Elle’s mom sat her down and spoke to her properly. Cleared all if this misconceptions and unintentional fear she instilled in her regarding men and relationships.
• Nah Elle sees things in one way so this even happening at that time is highly unlikely. In her head at that moment Parker just ripped something away from her. This gesture would have been lost on her even if she was aware of it. Maybe after some time she’d have cooled down and they would have reconciled sooner rather than 18 months later.
• I think its cute that they are making this summer of memories and love for them. Finally Parker is happy… and Elle has accepted him and their love. I’m happy for them both.
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Q: What did you think of this grand gesture?
A: I think it was extravagant but so sweet! He put so much effort, thoughtfulness and love into it.Q: Do you think this was a step too far from Parker? Or do you think that much like Elle’s mom, Elle needs to let go of her pride sometimes?
A: No, I don’t think it was a step too far. I think he wanted what was best for her and literally wants to give her the world. I understand where Elle is coming from – that she wants to reach her own goals – but I couldn’t believe how hot and cold she was. I felt very frustrated with Elle in that moment. She literally just agreed to spend her life with Parker and then ran away!Q: Do you agree with Penelope that Elle is the one who is obsessed with money despite knowing people like Parker and her sister Cali?
A: Yes! Thank you for calling her out, Penelope.Q: What do you think of Elle’s mother leaving that note on one of Elle’s scripts? Do you almost wish this was something said to Elle in person?
A: I wish it was something that was said to Elle in person, but I think Elle was ready to hear and take on what was in her note. It was a very special letter.Q: Do you think that had she seen it that day over a year and a half ago, she wouldn’t have left Parker?
A: I think she might have still left Parker. I felt towards the end of the book Elle was being selfish and a bit narcissistic. She was giving Parker the bare minimum and wasn’t ready to give her whole heart.Q: What do you think of their second summer together? The summer where they get to know each other and work on creating a life together?
A: I think it was so special and an important foundation to their relationship. A wonderful ending! -
Q: Parker definitely took the “grand romantic gesture” seriously. He takes Elle to an empty New York street and does something a little bit crazy. He proposes. What did you think of this grand gesture?
A: It was incredibly romantic and personal. Shutting down a New York street just to propose shows how deeply Parker feels for Elle—it was big, but also heartfelt and symbolic of how important she is to him.Q: Elle is very happy and says yes to Parker until he presents her with her dream apartment. Do you think this was a step too far from Parker? Or do you think that much like Elle’s mom, Elle needs to let go of her pride sometimes?
A: It was a step too far in Elle’s eyes. While Parker meant well, Elle felt like it crossed a line into controlling or diminishing her independence. But at the same time, yes—Elle might need to learn, like her mom said, that pride shouldn’t stop her from accepting love and kindness.Q: Do you agree with Penelope that Elle is the one who is obsessed with money despite knowing people like Parker and her sister Cali?
A: Yes, in some ways. Elle’s fear of being seen as “less than” or a trophy wife makes her hyper-aware of money and status. Penelope was right that Elle was letting those fears block her happiness.Q: What do you think of Elle’s mother leaving that note on one of Elle’s scripts? Do you almost wish this was something said to Elle in person?
A: Yes, it would’ve meant even more in person. But even in written form, the note gave Elle closure and a deep emotional connection to her mom’s memory. It was touching and powerful.Q: When Elle returns to New York she looks for her townhouse and quickly realizes that it was a love letter to her and Parker’s relationship. Do you think that had she seen it that day over a year and a half ago, she wouldn’t have left Parker?
A: Definitely. If Elle had seen how much Parker preserved and cherished their memories in that house, she might have stayed. It would’ve shown her then what she only realizes later—that his love was always real.Q: Elle and Parker are an inevitable couple. What do you think of their second summer together? The summer where they get to know each other and work on creating a life together?
A: It’s beautiful and hopeful. Their second summer feels grounded,they’re not pretending anymore. They’re building something real together, rooted in love, mutual respect, and everything they’ve been through. -
Q: What did you think of this grand gesture?
A: Gosh, he was absolutely incredible for this!! The thought and dedication he put into every apsect of the proposal was perfect.Q: Do you think this was a step too far from Parker? Or do you think that much like Elle’s mom, Elle needs to let go of her pride sometimes?
A: At this point, despite understanding Elle’s reservations, I honestly think she always takes it too far. To end her and Parkers relationship over this was ridiculous. She needs to truly learn to trust Parker.Q: Do you agree with Penelope that Elle is the one who is obsessed with money despite knowing people like Parker and her sister Cali?
A: I love how Penelope gave Elle the truth. I think it allowed Elle to contemplate on her childhood and life and how she was going to move forward in her relationship with Parker.Q: What do you think of Elle’s mother leaving that note on one of Elle’s scripts? Do you almost wish this was something said to Elle in person?
A: I wish she has said this to Elle in person it almost seems like this is what she needed to truly let people in to help. Her mother’s reservations about money affected her more than anyone would have thought and I think she needed this to truly move on and continue a successful relationship with Parker.Q: Do you think that had she seen it that day over a year and a half ago, she wouldn’t have left Parker?
A: I’m not sure tbh. You can never truly know, but i think it definitely would’ve allowed her to trust Parker earlier and would’ve allowed her to let go of her reservations easier.Q: What do you think of their second summer together? The summer where they get to know each other and work on creating a life together?
A: I loved how they allowed the other into their lives. They built a routine and I loved seeing how they grew together. I think this summer allowed them to let the other get to know every aspect of themselves while allowing them to grow independently. -
As we are near the end of the book, Parker and Elle have been through so much together. Conversations about the important things, days out enjoying the “not-so-important” things that are important, nonetheless. Elle and Parker share a wonderful night together before things go very well and then very bad.
Parker definitely took the “grand romantic gesture” series. He takes Elle to an empty New York street and does something a little bit crazy. He proposes. What did you think of this grand gesture?- it was too soon
Elle is very happy and says yes to Parker until he presents her with her dream apartment. Do you think this was a step too far from Parker? Or do you think that much like Elle’s mom, Elle needs to let go of her pride sometimes? – a bit of both
Do you agree with Penelope that Elle is the one who is obsessed with money despite knowing people like Parker and her sister Cali?- yes
What do you think of Elle’s mother leaving that note on one of Elle’s scripts? Do you almost wish this was something said to Elle in person?- yes
When Elle returns to New York she looks for her townhouse and quickly realizes that it was a love letter to her and Parker’s relationship. Do you think that had she seen it that day over a year and a half ago, she wouldn’t have left Parker?- yes
Elle and Parker are an inevitable couple. What do you think of their second summer together? The summer where they get to know each other and work on creating a life together?- I loved it
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