Ch. 171..180
Chapter 171
Bathing Summer
Summer sat on the ground in front of the couch.
Finished
She twisted open the bottle, the liquor swirling like shattered moonlight. One sip followed another. As she drank, Summer's eyes turned red and misty, a layer of tears glazing over them.
She looked down at the two bracelets on her wrist. One was sapphire while the other was an amethyst bracelet Holly had given her.
Her voice broke as she said, "Grandma, I miss you so much."
She slowly drank bottle by bottle.
feel dizzy.
Summer's face was a little red, and she was starting to fo
With a slight click, the light of the living room was switched open.
Fraser stood at the door with one hand in his pocket. He frowned when he smelled the alcohol in the house.
If he didn't know that the security personnel at Ravenshire Boulevard were all high-ranking officers, he would have thought his place had been robbed.
Fraser's dark gaze swept around the room before landing on Summer, who was sitting by the floor-to-ceiling window, drinking.
Bathed in the moonlight, her slender back was shrouded in a fragile, hazy veil, making her look both lonely and distant Fraser stepped forward and saw several empty bottles carelessly tossed on the floor.
He let out a short, incredulous laugh. This woman sure knows how to pick the most expensive liquor to drink.
"Didn't have enough at Sonata Bar? Still wanna drink at home?”
Summer slowly turned around when she heard the annoying voice. Her face was flushed red.
Her eyes were teary, her nose was red, and her lips carried the scent of alcohol mixed with a faint fragrance.
Fraser lounged lazily on the sofa, his deep gaze fixed on her for a long while. Reaching out, he pinched Summer's face. Her skin was burning hot, and the warmth seared against his fingertips, as if it had also left a mark on his chest.
Sunimer stammered, "D-Don't touch me."
"Who am I?"
"Abad guy. A big jerk who bullies me...
Fraser smirked slightly. "Oh, really?"
So she was mad at him for not giving her a deadline, so upset that she had to drink?
His eyes darkened, and after a brief silence, he murmured. "Summer, is being with me really that unbearable"
Summer was obviously drunk, she had no idea what he was saying. All she could feel right now was the discomfort in her stomach and chest. It was like something was churning inside her, threatening to explode at any time.
Suddenly, she couldn't bear it anymore "Ugh" Summer puked.
The floor and both their clothes were a mess
sluna haren a clean freak, frosened. His black slacks and the floor were covered
re covered with Summ Bathing Summer
In the bathroom, he placed her on top of the marble basin and started to take off her clothes.
Summer with her eyes closed kept on moving her body. Wh-who are you! You jerk Don't take advantage of me, or Im gonna call the cops"
Fraser suddenly looked up. 'Summer, look properly. Who am I
Although he sounded fierce, his actions of taking off her clothes were gentle
Summers reddened face turned toward him, and she held his face with both hands. She squinted and carefully observed his
handsome face.
After a moment, it was as if she recalled something and muttered. Fraser, why are you here? Where am I
Fraser answered coldly. "Heaven."
Fraser moved swiftly, stripping her of her clothes with practiced ease. When he encountered a stubborn button, he simply yanked it apart without a second thought, not caring whether it tore. He didn't stop until every last piece of fabric was gone, leaving her completely bare
Summers skin was smooth and delicate. Under the light, her skin seemed even softer.
Fraser's throat went dry, his breathing tightening. With immense restraint, he lifted her and placed her into the warm bath. The moment Summer's body touched the water, dizziness overwhelmed her. Her hands instinctively latched onto Fraser as she cried out in panic. "No, no, don't make me swim
At once, water splashed violently from the bathtub.
Fraser was drenched from head to toe, his already pent-up frustration burning hotter. Now, with his chest soaked and his patience running thin, the heat in his body only intensified
He stood up, peeled off his soaked dress shirt, revealing his perfectly sculpted abs, then unbuckled his belt and slipped out of his trousers. Without hesitation, he stepped into the bathtub.
Half-coaxing, half-forcing, he washed her body, making sure she was clean.
Once done. Fraser wrapped Summer tightly in a bath towel and carried her to the
bed. He picked up a soft. pale pink slip dress and slipped it onto her.
After the bath, and possibly from exhaustion, she finally quieted down.
Send Gifts
Chapter 172
Did I Say Anything Wrong?
Summer lay on the bed with her eyes closed and brows slightly furrowed as if she was uncomfortable.
Fraser's gaze wandered over her flushed face, her long lashes, the soft hue of her lips. He reached out gently tucking a strand of hair behind her ear Just as he was about to get up, he felt a tug on the sleeve of his robe.
She lay there, her innocent eyes wide open, staring at him like a helpless little girl.
"Don't go...
Fraser raised an eyebrow, half amused. "Clinging to me now?"
Drunk and dizzy, Summer thought she was in a dream, simply following her true feelings. She nodded seriously. "Mhm You're not allowed to leave"
Fraser looked at her and sighed, completely helpless against her. He lowered his head and kissed her forehead. "If you can't handle alcohol, don't drink. Be good, I'll get you some water and be right back
It was unclear if she understood or not. But this time, Summer obediently let go.
Fraser prepared a cup of honey water, something that could help ease a hangover. Lifting her into his arms, he held the glass to her lips. “Drink."
Summer pouted and turned away, pushing his hand away in protest, "No, I don't want it. It tastes bad."
After several failed attempts, she remained as stubborn as a three-year-old child. Fraser ran out of patience, so he took a sip of the honey water himself and fed it to her directly, mouth to mouth.
Forced to drink it this way, Summer was furious. With her drunken courage fully unleashed, she suddenly flipped over and straddled Fraser, biting down on his lips,
Fraser barely felt any pain, only the sweer, wine-scented breath she exhaled, which was kind of intoxicating for some reason.
Summer slowly lifted her head, glaring at him with absolutely no intimidation whatsoever. "Why do you keep bullying me
Fraser wrapped an arm around her slim waist, pulling her close so she wouldn't fall off the bed. "Aren't you the one bullying
me?"
Summer pouted. "Say sorry to me."
Fraser stared at her adorable, sulky face and, for once, felt like humoring her. His voice turned lazy and was laced with amusement as he said, "Sorry, my little princess."
Summer pushed her luck, poking his chest with her delicate finger. "You... you're always mean to me."
Fraser's dark eyes reflected her face, and he smirked. "Alright, I admit it
"And what else
"What else
Before she could think of anything more, she slowly leaned against his chest and drifted off to sleep.
Fraser chuckled, running his fingers through her hair. Resting his chin against the top of her head, his voice was low and strady And also, Summer, I love you"
he next morning soft morning light streamed through the gap in the curtains. A sharp alarm tone shattered the quiet.
A strong a suddenly stretched out from beside her shutting of the alarm before she could.
It took a few seconds for Summer ass brain to proce
landed on a sharp deed jawline
what just happened Slows the opened her drow
Looking up the saw Troers closed eyes has long laste casting fart shadows over
his face. Even in Heep h impossibly handsome
And then, she realized that she was tightly wrapped around has bare, muscular torso Summer jolted upright fill awake i
Bar
happened stent You, why are we-"
Still half-asleep. Fraser turned over burying his face in the pillow his back muscles shifting fluidly with the motion. The loose waistband of his pants rested low on his hips his whole presence radiating lary sensuality
Summer posted at his arm. "Hey why are you here?"
Fraser grumbled itably his voice husky with sleep. This is my house
1. d. Then did you do anything
Fraser cracked an eye open smirking sightly. Do look that desperate? Turning onto his back, his deep, unreadable gaze locked onto be
that you mention it Summer, do you even know how bad your drinking habits are Fraser pointed a
int scratch marks on his chest and arms, which looked like tiny claw marks left by a small cat, red and
my
Well
suddenly felt guilty. "I was drunk"
clear attempt to dodge responsibilit
She hesitated, glancing up cautiously. Lidder say
Chapter 173
Bumping Into Mason
"Then, you've gotta ask yourself that."
How would I know if I was drunk? Forget it.
Finished
Summer got up from bed and went to the bathroom to freshen up. Then, she heard the man's teasing tone. "You said that I'm the most handsome guy in the world, and meeting me is your blessing. You also said... that you'll be obedient from today
onward.
Hearing that, Summer stopped in her tracks, and even her ears turned red.
She turned around and glared at him. "Bullshit!" Then, she rushed into the bathroom.
After a while, she walked out in a professional dress. She glanced around and saw the man lounging lazily on the bed, texting
someone.
They were both bosses, but why did she have to go to work on time? Well, she was a lower-class boss.
Fraser looked up and said, "Don't simply drink next time."
Summer frowned. That's up to me"
Fraser tossed his phone aside and asked, "Then, may I ask, what made you drink last night?"
"Do I need a reason to drink?" Seeing that she was almost late, she didn't want to waste any more time talking to him. I'm going off to work."
Before she closed the door, Fraser's low voice came. "You will be free after three months."
When Summer heard his words, she wasn't as happy as she had expected herself to me. For some reason, she felt heavier. But this was what she wanted.
She looked at the man-his handsome face was void of any emotions.
Summer asked, "What made you change your mind!"
Fraser glanced at her lazily. "Don't want it?"
"Not like that." She was just curious what changed his mind so quickly.
"Then, all good. Don't drink anymore in this period of time."
Fraser lifted the covers and got out of bed, his bare upper body on full display. Dressed in only a pair of gray lounge pants, his long legs carried him lazily into the bathroom.
Summer stood at the doorway for a moment before finally leaving-
At Aspira Design Institute, Merry organized the documents and blueprints in her hands. When she saw Summer walk in, she greeted her promptly, "Ms. Stewart, as per your request, I've scheduled a meeting with James Fletcher."
Summer nodded "Alright, let's go!
Even as direct as Merry was, she could tell that Summer seemed different today, her mood seemed a little down
Summer, are you worried that even if we meet James today, he still won't let us compete? That Sienna will end up disappointed
Surmmer glanced at her. That's why I'm counting on you to give it your best shot"
Sumping me Mason
i man wailing our of the building and mmediately grabbed Summer's arm.
Summer That's Siemals wuming ex-husiand, Mason! What is he doing here?" woumbag
Summer (umed to look. The man wore a navy-blue suit, his features fairly decent-looking, though his eyes held a sham calentating dim. He had the umsattable aura of a shrewd, status-driven businessman.
Merry gritted her teeth. Twat The Chor Path Construction design project... Sienna was doing fine until her entry was suddenly rejected. He muatwellenbemid
Mason clearly nonced them as wellized Merry. Ele adjusted the cufflinks on his suit and raised a brow with aamu expression. "Sienna snil husnit gven up Sen you two to talk? Go back and tell her to stop embarrassing herself.
Merry couldn't hold back her anger. Yousuming You already took everything from Sienna's family, and now you're stil trying to crush her? A man like you is boundlagen struck by lighting
Mason sneered, "Watch your mouth little girl. Be careful, or I'll make sure you learn what it really means to get a harsh lesso
from society.
Summer used to think Trevor was bad, but insieme like these scumbags were only getting more shameless by the day. There was no point in trying to reason will someme like him.
"Our business at Aspira Design Institute is none of your concern. You should worry about yourself instead-walk too many dark paths, and you're bound to run into a ghost
"Oh?" Mason's interest was piqued as he looked at Sum
"Where did Sienna find you? Come work for me instead pawymucimubic
"Dream on! She's one of the owners of our company Mary sklonbuck
Just then, a secretary appeared. Ms. Stewart, Mr. James is available now. This way, please
Chapter 174
Visiting Yolanda
Summer pulled Merry away to focus on business first.
Mason's assistant asked, "Mr. Mason, they're going straight up to see James. Aren't you worried Mr. James might let them pass?"
"Worried about what? James is smart enough to not throw away a partnership with one of Havenbrook's top three design. firms for some no-name institute."
The female secretary led Summer and Merry into a luxurious office. As they stepped inside, they saw James sitting on the couch while his assistant handed
him a pill.
James barely spared them a glance before swallowing the pill.
Summer greeted him, "Hello, Mr. James."
James's voice was hoarse and sounded sarcastic. "You two sure have good luck. I drank on your behalf."
Summer smiled. "It was just a game. Or should I say, Mr. James, you were simply being generous?"
"I ended up in the hospital getting my stomach cleansed because of you!"
Merry muttered under her breath, Better you than us."
Summer remained composed. "Mr. James, though your stomach issues weren't caused by us, I still apologize to it on your behalf.
James let out a cold snort. He couldn't afford to resent the Graham family's top dog, so he could only vent his frustration on them instead.
Summer got straight to the point. "Mr. James, you said our design institute could go straight to the final selection. Does that still stand?"
James leaned back on his black leather couch, crossing his legs. "Did I say that?"
Merry reminded him, "You said if the Bossman was happy, you'd let our institute pass."
"And was he happy?"
"Of course. Ms. Stewart even got punished... Mr. Graham held her in his arms." "Really?" James narrowed his eyes and sized Summer up.
Today, she wore a striped blue shirt dress, cinched at the waist with a brown leather belt. She looked elegant and sophisticated, and she was undeniably beautiful. Could it be that Fraser is interested in this woman? As far as I remembered, Fraser was never into women. At business events, no woman ever managed to get close to him.
However, the biggest investor in GloryPath Construction right now was the Graham Group. Whether Fraser was involved or not didn't matter. Giving them a chance to compete didn't mean they'd win.
After thinking for a moment, James said, "Fine. Since I already said it, tell the project director to coordinate with them."
Leaving Fletcher Construction Croup, Merry still couldn't believe it. "That's it? Ms. Stewart, you have no idea that the project director's attitude toward us just did a complete 1801 Sienna begged them for so long, and we got it just like that? Could it be because of your looks
summer flicked her forehead. "What are you thinking? He probably thinks I have something going on with Fraser"
Merry nodded "So. Ms. Stewart, you deliberately used Bossman
Chapter 175
Going Home
Margaret was unwilling to accept her fate, but there was nothing she could do. That was when she remembered Yolanda. After asking around, she learned that Yolanda was about to be released from prison. A scheme formed in her mind, which was why she had agreed to see her.
Margaret said coldly. "Thanks to your daughter Summer, I was kicked out of the Stewart family."
Yolanda was in disbelief. "How could that be? Didn't the Stewart family love you? How could they bear to cast you out?"
Margaret's expression twisted with rage. "Why don't you tell me? Since you swapped me and Summer back then, why didn't you just kill her? Or at least take her far away! Why did you have to bring her back? Everything I had is ruined! Hah!"
When Summer was taken back to the Stewart family. Yolanda had never been afraid. She had seen with her own eyes that they still adored Margaret, proving that all her efforts twenty years ago had not been in vain. But she never imagined things would turn out like this..
Yolanda clenched her fists and slammed them on the table, her voice trembling with emotion. "Margaret, don't worry. Mom is about to be released. I will help you reclaim your place. That wretched girl Summer.. I'll take care of her. She won't stand in your way
Summer occasionally visited Julia whenever Jasper wasn't home.
When she arrived at the Stewart family villa today. Julia's health was no longer a major concern.
In the living room, several jewelry managers had brought in the season's most precious pieces. Julia saw Summer and waved. her over. "Summer, come take a look. See if there's anything you like."
She remembered how, every season, Julia would select a few sets of jewelry for upcoming banquets. The one always sitting beside her had been Margaret. Summer felt a bit dazed and wasn't particularly interested.
One of the managers smiled. "Ms. Stewart, the sapphire bracelet on your wrist alone is worth more than all of these combined."
Julia finally noticed the sapphire bracelet on Summer's wrist. The color was vivid, each sapphire pure and dazzling. It was clearly top-tier quality,
julia waved her hand. You can all leave now. I'll pick another time."
The jewelry manager crouched down, carefully returning each piece to its box before exiting. Summer glanced at the hay and casually picked up a pearl necklace.
The manager's eyes lit up, thinking she was interested. "Ms. Stewart, do you like this Armanee pearl necklace? It's a one-of-a-kind design."
Summer turned to Julia. "I remember Margaret wearing this necklace before,
Julia took the necklace and examined it carefully. "Your grandmother gave this to her for her sixteenth birthday."
The jewelry manager explained, "This necklace was part of a collection we repurchased from a pawnshop.”
Leona came down from Margaret's room. "Madam, all of Margaret's valuables and jewelry are gone."
Julia could hardly believe it. She had only intended to teach Margaret a lesson. If she realized her mistakes and changed there might have been a chance for her to return. But now, it was clear that her heart was truly cruel.
Leave this necklace here and put it on my tab," Julia said, holding the pearls tightly. When she looked at Summer, her heart ched even more "Summer. I've decided to make a public statement cutting all ties with Margaret. No matter what happens
gunaan tumed laghth weannis, Summer Danny, have ju
at of the inner man
bat Sumber dodn't want to buca
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"Flames Evan even van that brain dont call me your mother etter
Chapter 176
A Night of Restlessness.
Finished
Harvey's face burned with frustration. "Mom, don't let her fool you! Just because she found herself a powerful boyfriend, does that mean you and Dad only see her now? Am I invisible to you? Even without outside help, I can make the Stewart family thrive on my own!"
Julia's face darkened. “I don't care about the company's affairs, but from now on, you are not to bully Summer again.”
Fuming, Harvey stormed upstairs.
Julia sighed, helpless. "Summer, don't mind him. The weather forecast says there'll be a storm tonight. Why don't you stay
here?"
Summer shook her head. "No need."
After she left, Zoey stepped forward to comfort Julia. "Madam, take it slow, Ms. Stewart has endured a lot in these three years."
Summer returned to her apartment at Ravenshire Boulevard. She flicked on the lights, but the place was dark and silent as
Lately, that man had been coming home late
Her eyes swept the pristine interior. The maids must have cleaned up earlier in the day. Perhaps they worried she wouldn't be used to it; they always left by evening.
If she ignored everything else, she and Fraser really did seem like a normal cohabiting couple.
She stepped forward and opened the fridge. Fresh vegetables, seasonal fruits, all neatly arranged. She grabbed some ingredients and headed into the kitchen.
Since breaking up with Trevor, she had not cooked. Not even for Fraser.
Tonight, she made braised fish, stir-fried shrimp with broccoli, curry chicken cutlets, and minced meat with eggplant.
But even as she set the dishes on the table, she did not start eating. She just waited.
From 8 p.m. to 10 p.m., the light drizzle outside turned into a raging downpour,
Lightning flashed across the floor-to-ceiling windows, silver streaks slicing the sky, tearing the darkness apart.
Summer stared blankly outside.
Maybe it was because she had grown up abandoned by Yolanda, left alone to fend for herself. Unlike other girls, she was not afraid of storms.
But she did fear loneliness.
Maybe because their three-month deadline was set, she found herself missing him. For whatever time they had left, she wanted to get along with Fraser.
Even if they parted ways, at least they could have good memories with no regrets.
After a moment's hesitation, she picked up her phone and sent him a message: "It's thundering I'm scared."
A Night of Restlessness
The surgical doors opened, then closed, doctors moving in and out.
Helen's frown deepened.
Finished
Then, urgent footsteps echoed down the hall. Fraser strode toward them, clad in a white dress shirt, a dark waistcoat, and a matching pocket square. His coat was draped over one arm. his long strides filled with purpose.
Raindrops speckled his shirt. He must have rushed straight from a business engagement.
The moment she saw him, Helen clutched onto hope, hurrying forward with a choked voice. "My dear grandson, you're finally here."
Karena added. "Mr. Graham Sr. collapsed in the study this afternoon. The doctors say it's a cerebral hemorrhage caused by high blood pressure."
Tears welled in Helen's eyes. "He already had surgery last year. I never thought it would happen again."
Fraser's expression darkened.
Maximus' health had been deteriorating over the years. His age was catching up to him, and the chronic cerebrovascular condition only worsened things.
Guiding Helen to a chair, Fraser spoke calmly, “The world's top neurosurgeons are here. Don't worry too much."
At that moment, the surgical doors swung open again. A doctor in a white coat stepped out "Mr. Graham, we need your blood for a transfusion. Mr. Graham Sr's blood pressure is dangerously low, and the blood bank is short on supply."
Fraser nodded, his dark eyes sweeping toward the maids. "Take care of my grandmother."
Helen's eyes were red. For all her wealth and power, for all the years she had commanded respect and authority, when it came. to life and death, she was just another helpless old woman.
"My dear grandson..
Fraser casually tossed his coat to one of the maids. "Watch over Madam Graham."
"Yes, Mr. Graham."
Karena held onto the coat and murmured reassuringly, "Mr. Graham Sr. is strong. He'll pull through. He has to. His 80th birthday is next year. And Mr. Graham is just donating blood. Don't worry oo much"
Helen nodded, hoping she was right
A few moments later, a vibration buzzed from the pocket of Fraser's discarded
Chapter 177
The Shadow of Oblistan
Karena hesitated as she glanced at the vibrating phone screen. The name 'Pudding's Mom' flashed across WhatsApp.
She handed the phone to Helen.
Helen frowned and instructed, "Open it."
The message popped up: "It's thundering. I'm scared."
Finished
Disgust flickered across Helen's face. "That vixen. Because of her, Fraser wants
to send Mia back to Ameros. He even nearly got upset with me."
Her voice turned cold. "Looks like my grandson sees this woman differently. Once
Mr. Graham Sr. recovers. I'll get rid of her. Delete the message.
Karena obeyed without hesitation, wiping away any trace of the message.
The surgery lasted nearly two hours.
Finally, Mr. Graham Sr. was wheeled out and taken to a VIP recovery suite. He was still in critical condition.
The VIP suite in this private hospital was no different from a five-star presidential suite, fully equipped with a living room. kitchen, and bedroom.
The doctor turned to Fraser. "Mr. Graham, you can't leave tonight. Mr. Graham Sr.'s condition could relapse at any time, and if necessary, we may need another transfusion from you."
Fraser lounged lazily on the sofa, his long legs stretched out. Having lost a significant amount of blood, his usually flawless complexion was slightly pale. Yet,
the sharp contours of his face remained strikingly handsome.
He tossed aside the cotton swab pressed against his arm and gave a casual grunt of acknowledgment.
Doctors reentered the suite to monitor Mr. Graham Sr's vitals.
Seated in a single-seater chair, Helen signaled for food to be prepared. Noticing her grandson's exhaustion, she sighed and spoke earnestly. "Fraser, your grandfather's condition is a ticking time bomb. Otherwise, he wouldn't have insisted you attend the Lastesh Group's heiress Anne's graduation in Ameros. He wanted to formalize your engagement process."
Fraser leaned back slightly, eyes closed, feigning sleep. His slender fingers toyed idly with his phone.
"I know you've never acknowledged it. Even if it's not Anne, a family like ours needs a marriage of equal standing. It will help you go further."
Her tone lowered. "Besides, I've heard that your uncle's influence in Oblistan has grown. He's been waiting for an opportunity. If something happens to your grandfather, he will undoubtedly return to seize power."
Maximus had been a notorious philanderer in his younger days.
As the rightful matriarch of the Graham family, Helen had turned a blind eye as long as things didn't go too far. But then, one of his mistresses had the audacity to bear his child.
That Helen could not tolerate. She sent people to deal with the woman to ensure she never gave birth. But the woman defied them, secretly giving birth to a son, who was Brandon, Fraser's uncle.
There was no choice. Helen had to discard the mother, but the child remained. Thus, Helen raised her own son, Wyatt, alongside Brandon
But as the two grew up. Brandon harbored deep resentment. He refused to accept being merely the second son while Wyatt was destined to inherit the family fortune.
the Shadow of tilstan
And the only person with
idence and witnesses vanished without a trace
saxinus made a decision to expel Brandon from the family and had his name
erased from the Graha
For over a derade. Wyan he
amassing power across t
both the legal and the underground world's
Traser slack eyes slowly opened. topple Graham Crimp
capaze was derjy las voue laced with cold amusement. Restless, is he? He thinks he can
Helen shook her head That's not wh them would only strengthen our family"
uneant. But the Lastesh Grongs is fucked by Oblistan's financial elite. A union with
Fraser chuckled mockingly "I the old man wants an alliance so badly, why doesn't he marry an Oblistan businesswoman.
Oblistan tycoon to wed. That would be a true power m
Helen's Lace turned green.
Meanwhile, in Ravenshire Boulevard, outside the floor-to-ceiling windows, the storm raged on. The wind howled, rain posling mercilessly against the glass
Since sending the message, Summer had been clutching her phone. Seconds crawled by.
Each time the phone vibrated, she snatched it up, only to be met with disappointment.
Finally, at mulight, a message popped up. There were only a few simple words "I won't be back tonight"
In an instant, the anticipation swelling within her heart was torn apart, shredded
by the storm outside. Her entire body went cold, trembling
For a long time, Summer stared at the screen Then, silently, she slut her phone and tossed it onto the table.
Chapter 178
Fractured Moments
Finished
Summer swallowed the lump in her throat and stood up. Looking at the untouched dishes on the table, which was now completely cold. She felt a wave of irony wash over her.
One by one, she picked them up and dumped them straight into the trash.
The next morning, Summer arrived at the design firm and walked straight into her office.
Merry blinked, then quickly followed, peeking her head through the doorway. "Summer, you look so exhausted. Did last night's storm scare you?"
Summer slumped into her chair, rubbing her temples. I had a nightmare.
Truthfully, she had barely slept at all. She had tried to hypnotize herself into slumber, yet sleep had still abandoned her.
Merry gasped. "Oh no, that nightmare must've really done a number on you. Look at those dark circles. You've turned into a panda!"
Summer took out her compact mirror and glanced at her reflection. She jumped in fright. Her complexion was so pale she looked like a ghost drained of its essence. She quickly reached for her foundation and carefully dabbed it onto her face. She had several client meetings later. If she showed up looking like this, those discussions would probably end before they even started.
Aspira Design Institute's biggest problem was the lack of clients and projects.
Although they had the opportunity to compete for the GloryPath Construction Project, nearly ten firms were bidding for it as well Winning was far from guaranteed.
For now, Sienna needed to focus on drafting designs, while Summer spent her time meeting potential clients, hoping to secure contracts and boost revenue. For days, she threw herself into work, refusing to think about anything else.
Every night when she returned to Ravenshire Boulevard, Fraser was never there, but he would still send her a message whenever he was not coming back. Every time she saw those words, she could only let out a bitter laugh.
She never asked where he was or what he was doing. Instead, she simply deleted the message and, on a whim, changed his
contact name to "Bastard."
At the office, Merry had been pulling late nights alongside Summer.
After days of exhaustion, her face looked as dry and lifeless as preserved meat. She could not understand why her boss was suddenly so relentless. Almost as if she was trying to complete a year's worth of work in a few days.
And as her assistant, Merry had no choice but to keep up.
At barely twenty years old, she was supposed to be in the prime of her youth. Yet after so many sleepless nights, she felt like she had aged to sixty.
That evening, she could not take it anymore.
"Summer, we've been visiting clients non-stop. You should really get some rest. Staying up late will affect our efficiency tomorrow Don't you think
Fractured Moments
Finish
Winght, let's call it a day."
Tipon returning to Ravenshire Boulevard, Summer realized her period lizard.
After taking a shower, she climbed into bed early.
Jun her sleep was restless. Half-dreaming, she curled up, pressing a land to heating toonach
When suddenly, a pair of warm and strong hands covered her abdomen.
Beatened through her skin, soothing the pain. Still half-asleep, she murmured in combrant nuncvely burrowed in die familiar embrace.
Busserhalen at the private hospital for the past few days. Only today had
Maximus nailsinized, though ins conduit remained magile.
When rakennetumed home, the apartment was pitch dark.
Bemwned assuming Summer had not come back. But then, his sharp eyes caught sight of lengri temeatthe
The comesontislipslitted slightly.
Posting pentelhedroom door, he saw the blanket rising and falling with her breathing under the dim glowoda hatiy Higits.
Fraser marian webbrow steep before eleven? That's early for her."
Loosening his heitsiliinto the bathroom for a quick shower. When he returned to bed, he immediately something was diff
Swen bender Summersfromthead fe reached out, pressing a palm against her stomach. Her body instinctively leaner med
The warmth of his imelist and the weight of his hand felt too real.
Dazed. Sunner slowly openedieves hrough the laze. She saw his sharp jawline and his chiseled features.
Fraser was wearing a louseiyelizalimise, the fabric slipping open to reveal his toned abdomen. His body still carried ther fresh scent of a shower, lingung dampness clinging to his skin.
The sight of him exudes a lazy, ceftorliesseniitty,
Summer's first reaction was to show him away. She scrambled toward the edge of
the bed, frowning. "Why are you back ail of a suddent"
Fraser smirked at her exaggerated motion. What wenn you hiding someone else here? Why so flustered?"
Summer, weakened by crumps, hund nu numUGUMIL
Chapter 179
Unspoken Wounds
Summer lifted the blanket and prepared to get t out of bed. "I'll sleep in the guest
room.
Before she could move, Fraser reached out and grabbed her slender wrist, pulling her back with a slight force.
Caught off guard, Summer tumbled against his chest, her gaze landing directly on the firm, tanned muscles before her.
Above her head, his deep, lazy voice drifted down, laced with amusement. "Why?"
Summer pushed herself up, her tone stiff. I'm not in the mood."
The unspoken meaning was clear. Whatever Fraser had in mind, he was not getting it tonight.
His dark eyes flicked over her lazily, a smirk playing at his lips. "Did I say I wanted anything? Now be good and lie down."
Then, he pulled her into his embrace.
Her face pressed against his chest, his chin resting lightly on her hair. One of his hands remained on her stomach, gently rubbing in slow, soothing circles.
Summer had to admit. His touch did help ease the discomfort of her cramps. But his scent, a blend of cedarwood and fresh soap, enveloped her completely, leaving her no escape.
She felt like a pet, indulged with a treat when he was in a good mood and discarded when he was not
The more she thought about it, the more her chest tightened, her head growing heavy with frustration.
She struggled again, her voice resolute. "I want to sleep alone."
Fraser lowered his gaze, studying her for a moment. His voice softened, but the amusement never left. "Why are you being
difficult, him?"
Summer's tone was cold. "I don't feel well I just want to rest by myself
The chill in her voice was unmistakable. It was an air of quiet distance that warned people to stay away.
Fraser's dark eyes flickered. His lips curled slightly, but the smile never reached his eyes. "You're saying, as long as I'm here, you can't sleep?"
His voice carried an edge of something unreadable.
Then, without another word, he stood up, looking down at her for a moment
before turning and striding out of the room.
The door clicked shut. His tall figure disappeared.
Summer's grip on the blanket tightened. She exhaled softly and pulled the covers
over her head, curling into herself.
Xavier had just finished a surgery when he received the call.
"What? Did I hear that night, or did you say it wrong?"
A top-tier surgeon and hospital director like me now had to treat menstrual cramps too!
She's on her period?" He scoffed. "Sending a doctor won't help with that! If she's
in pain, just give her some brown sugar
cater. If she's in a bad mood, comfort her a little. It'll work better than any doctors ever could"
"Hello Fraser Fraser"
From steady footiceps echoed
Mode's he leth?
rode
The love bachone he wore barely
doce but the cemet de tem de com voet be
own from under the banker, ne making a pair of dent
med to the cap in his hand.
Fraser spended. Do you want me to feed your
nstantly sat up and sock the cup from him drin
She beritated then munered Thamu."
That thank you sounded the you were
Summer did non der She did not know what had
The night he had coldly rejected her
cheng
annetable his lips cong dida
Fraser
on the edge of the bed has dark gaze steady as he stated her pale face
the had not forgonen das g
Alter a moment, has hand reached out resting gently on her stomach. His voice
was her his time. Does it will hurt
Chapter 180
A Bite of Revenge
The man's palin was large and warm. The moment pressed agamist her abdomen, summer felt her mind talter slightly.
She frownest, torcing herself not to malulge in that weath
But just as she reached out to pushy hum awax. Eraser caught het handl, his fingers wrapping secmely, around her delicate or
He held omo het.
Vement ago, his eyes had been sharp and ruthless, but now they were unbearably soft Missy, stop making a fuss, will
s gaze fell on then hands. The contaxt in skin tone was striking yet oddly reassuring
Her eves trailed upward Fraser was looking down at her, and when their gazes los keil, Summer felt as if she had plunged into an abyss of unknown depth.
Then, his deep, magnetic voice followed. "I heard women get massly during their period. I'll allow you to do whatever you
As
soon as he finished speaking, Summer bit down on his toned, tamed arm
A sharp mhale came from FrasCT
A moment later, a set of small, red teeth marks appeared on his skin.
Fraser's brows twitched slightly, but he did not pull away. Instead, he let out a low chuckle, his tone tinged with mockery. "Summer, are you trying to minder me
Looking at the imprint of her teeth on his arm, half of Summer's anger dissipated. She pouted. "Bastands like you lives any way.
Fraser reached out and pinched her cheek. "You curse me so naturally," he mused.
His fingers brushed against her cool, smooth skin, and for some gason, his heart gave a small jolt.
His fingertips moved, tracing slowly from her cheek to her lips, lingering with a teasing friction.
Summers lashes quivered, and instinctively, she bit down on his tinger.
have tough
Both of them froze. The air between them thickened, charged with an unspoken tension. Heat slowly crept into the atmosphere
Fraser's gaze darkened, his Adam's apple rolling slightly. His voice was lowe, husky, and tinged with helplessness. "What do we
do now? It's reacting
"Pervert"
Fraser raised a brow, shamelessly pushing the blame. "Who told you to tease me?"
Summer glared I didn't even do anything
He leaned in lazily "You seduced me."
Her cars tinged red. She shoved him as ay
away
The bedroom lights mixed with the moonlight filtering through the floor to ceilung windows casting a warm glow
wann
A Bite of Reverse
Fraser studied her with amusement, his lips curling slightly: "What are you mad I didn't keep you company
Summer took a deep breath. Her voice was soft but clear "That night, the one when it rained heavily I really wanted you to
e's heart denched. He had no idea that the message she sent that night had been deleted by Helen,
He only thought that on the night of the storm, she had been waiting for him, but he had not returned.
> moment of söence he ad. "The old man was sack. I had to stay with
Summer had not expected that Maximay condition had been kept under tight wraps by the Graham Group
As the wealthier family in the country, even the slightest change in their leadership could shake the entire Havenbrook. If
wind of it the consequences would be immense
Eur Fraser had told her
he was not worned she would leak the information.
Lowering her gaze Summer simply replied, "Oh"
dark eyes cleansed
"drowled "Perry little thing. Guess I need to report to you from now on
Sienna father was discharged and Sienna returned to work
Seeing how buy Summer was, she felt guilty. Her eyes were slightly red. "Summer, I used to feel discouraged working alone. But you gave me the confidence to keep going
A few days ago, Sommer had managed to secure two contracts with Merry. One for a villa design and another for a bar.
They were not major projects, but they marked a fresh start.
Summer was focused on her computer, sketching a 20 design Without looking up, she said. "Sienna, we're just getting stamed. Save the emocional speeches for later
Merry popped her bead in with a grin "Exactly Today, Glory Pach Construction announces the results of their project bids. If weger selected, Bosses were celebrating
Summer and Sienna exchanged miles
Sumner suddenly remembered something "Yvette is frushing her shoot soon. She's been saying she wants to visit us. She also mentioned knowing a few five- star hotel owners looking for redesigns. She might recommend us."
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