Ch. 191..200
Chapter 191
Kisses of Apology
Summer turned her head slightly and looked over. "What's wrong?"
Finished
Fraser tightened his grip around her slender waist, then effortlessly lifted her onto the clean, smooth glass countertop. Now, they were face to face.
His deep gaze locked onto hers, unmoving. At first, his eyes were calm and unfathomable, but slowly, emotions rippled through them. His voice dropped to a low murmur. "That night, I didn't know you wanted me to come back."
Summer blinked her clear, dark eyes. His words instantly brought back memories of that lonely evening when she was sitting alone at the dinner table, staring at a carefully prepared meal, and summoning the courage to send that message.
"You said your grandfather was sick. I understood," she replied softly. Guilt flickered across Fraser's eyes. In a low voice, he said, "I'm sorry."
That night, he had thought it was just another missed evening. But now, he realized that she had sent that message with hope, waiting for his return. The weight of that expectation and his absence meant two entirely different things.
Summer forced a small, stiff smile. It's fine. It's all in the past, isn't it?"
Fraser's gaze darkened. Without warning, he cupped the back of her neck and kissed her, his movements urgent and desperate. He pried her lips apart, plundering with reckless intensity. Warmth surged through her, every nerve ending ignited by his searing touch. Their breaths mingled, heated and erratic. "Silly girl," he murmured against her lips. His warm breath ghosted over her skin, sending shivers down her spine.
Summer's lashes trembled as her heart softened.
They had kissed countless times before. Yet, this kiss, laced with apology and
longing, unsettled her the most. Her lips parted slightly as she murmured something
Fraser did not catch it. He leaned in, his ear close to her lips. "What?"
Summer whispered, "We haven't eaten yet."
Fraser's dark eyes bore into hers. His large palm slid beneath the hem of her nightshirt, fingers grazing her soft, bare skin. "Summer, I want you."
A sultry heat thickened the air in the kitchen. Desire, apology, and affection intertwined in an intoxicating mix.
Summer could not suppress the soft whimper that escaped her lips.
"Summer_
Her misty eyes met his. "Hmm...?"
"From now on, if I don't reply to your messages, or if you don't like my response, call me. Check with me."
"Okay."
In Aspira Design Institute, Summer stepped inside in her black-and-white checkered pattern haute couture autumn knit jacket. A fitted blue denim hugged her long legs, paired with five-centimeter heels that accentuated her tall, slender frame. She exuded effortless elegance.
Merry could not help but keep glancing at her. "Summer, your complexion looks amazing today. What did you do last night?"
Summer's almond-shaped eyes curved into a smile. "None of your business."
At the same time. Sienna exited from the office, her expression heavy with worry. Chapter 191 Kisses of Apology
Compared to Summer's radiant glow, Sienna's anxiety was painfully apparent Summer handed her a fol
Emshed
a folder. “I goreverything on Mason. Including tax evasion, illegal business dealings, and more."""
Merry's eyes widened in shock. She gasped, "So fast! You only mentioned it yesterday, and you already have all this? Summer. you're incredible!"
Sienna flipped through the documents, scanning each incriminating detail of Mason's illicit activities
Summer said, "Sienna, we can use his tax evasion records as leverage to negotiate for your photos. As for him, he won't escape justice forever. Karma will catch up to lum."
Sienna's expression darkened. She did not look relieved. Instead, she seemed doubtful.
"Summer, how did you get these?"
Merry giggled and raised a hand. "I know! It must've been the Bossman who helped her
Sienna tilted her head slightly. "Bossman?
Only one man in Llavenbrook was ever called that the heir of the Graham Group Could it be
Merry nodded eagerly. "Yep! The same Fraser Graham who spoke up for us in yesterday's meeting! Sienna, isn't he so cool?"
Sienna's eyes flickered with an unreadable emotion. She had not expected
Summer to have such powerful connections
Still, she smiled. "Summer, thank you."
Sienna arranged a meeting with Mason.
Mason arrived at a private restaurant booth, his assistant trailing behind him. The
assistant opened the door, and Mason. strolled in leisurely.
Inside, three women were already seated.
His assistant, ever the sycophant, quickly pulled out a chair for him.
Mason sat down and sneered. 'Sienna, you can't beat me alone, so you're ganging up on me now?"
Chapter 192
Bargaining with the Devil
Merry pouted and muttered under her breath, "If you don't fight back, I could take him down myself"
The moment Sienna laid eyes on Mason, an overwhelming sense of regret and self-loathing surged within her.
I had been such a fool
Finished
Taking a deep breath, she clenched her fists tightly, forcing herself to rein in her fury. Word by word, she demanded, "Give me back those photos"
Mason sneered, the sound laced with disdain. "Sienna, after all these years, you still haven't learned your lesson. Do you really think you can just ask for them and I'll hand them over? Who do you think you are!"
Sitting beside her, Summer remained calm as she picked up the stack of documents on the table and pushed them toward him. "Mason, take a look. See if these are worth the photos you have."
Mason crossed his legs lazily and finally turned his attention to Summer. This woman had left an impression on him from
the start.
Firstly, she was far more attractive than that idiot Sienna. Secondly, she had the temper of a wildcat, something that piqued his interest.
iously. He
He raised a thick brow and reached for the papers with a casual flick of his wrist, hardly bothering to take them did not think this bunch of women could do anything to him. But as he flipped open the first page and his eyes scanned the words, his expression darkened. By the time he had skimmed through the entire stack, his face was as black as thunder.
With a sharp crack, he slammed the documents onto the table and demanded harshly, "Where the hell did you get these?"
Summer's voice remained steady. "That's not your concern. We just want the photos"
Mason's eyes glinted with malice as he leaned back, his lips curling into a sneer. "You actually think this is enough to make me back down? You think I've survived in this world for so long without knowing how to handle a little trouble?"
Sienna's face turned pale. She knew all too well how cunning and ruthless Mason was. If he were not, he would not have climbed his way to where he was now.
Merry, too, grew anxious. She had not expected even solid evidence to shake this
man.
But Summer remained composed.
Perhaps it was because she had spent too much time around Fraser. He was always in control, always strategizing like a king. on his throne. As if the world was his chessboard, and everything was within his grasp. And now, his confidence had rubbed.
off on her.
Summer's lips curled into a faint smile. She spoke slowly, unhurriedly. "Well then, since you know I have these documents, you should also realize that the person behind me has the power to bring you down?
Mason's expression shattered like glass hit by a hammer.
He had always covered his tracks meticulously. For someone to have dug up such damning evidence against him, they had to be someone with real power.
He fell silent for a few moments, staring at Summer with gritted teeth before finally hissing, "I have to admit, you're quite something. Sienna, you've outdone yourself this time."
With a cold glance at his assistant, he gave a brief nod. The assistant immediately understood and hurried outside to retrieve the photos.
A few moments later, Mason's eyes were dark with fury as he tossed a thick envelope onto the table.
Sienna rushed forward, tearing it open. Summer and Merry leaned in to look. Chapter 192 Bargaining with the Devil
Those cameras, they must have been hidden all over the house. And she had never noticed.
Finished
Her eyes burned red with rage. The fury in her chest erupted like a volcano. "You bastard! You disgusting, vile scum!" she screamed, lunging at him with a raised hand.
But Mason was quicker. He easily dodged and, with a sharp slap, struck her across the face, "You slut. You weren't complaining in bed before. You brought this on yourself."
Sienna stumbled back, but Summer caught her before she could fall. Glaring daggers at him, she snapped, "Mason! You call yourself a man? Hitting a woman!"
Merry's eyes
blazed with fury. "You are the scum of the scum!"
But Mason remained as arrogant as ever. "She hit me first. And now, we're even. Do whatever you want with those pictures. But Summer, you've intrigued me."
His tongue swept across his lips, his eyes filled with greedy amusement before he turned on his heel and strode out without looking back.
Once he was gone, Sienna collapsed into a chair, trembling. Tears spilled through her fingers as she covered her face, her voice choked with regret. "How could I have fallen for someone like him? How could I have been so blind?"
Summer and Merry stayed by her side, gently comforting her as her sobs filled the
room.
At the same time, Yvette called and said that she had been back in Havenbrook.
Summer briefly explained everything that had happened today over the phone.
Chapter 193
Echoes of Envy
Finished
Yvette, upon hearing what had happened, immediately booked a private KTV room for them, suggesting they come over to have some fun and let off steam.
Half an hour later, Summer and Sienna arrived.
Inside the private lounge, Yvette sat on the plush sofa, her fingers swiftly tapping away on her phone. A waiter stood nearby. opening bottles of expensive liquor and arranging a plate of fresh fruits.
It had been a long time since Sienna had seen Yvette. Most of her recent glimpses of her old friend had been through television screens and social media. Now, standing before her in real life, she felt an unexpected unease.
Compared to Summer and Yvette, both of her old friends who carried an effortless grace and confidence, she felt out of place. Like she no longer belonged in their world..
"Yvette, long time no see," Sienna greeted hesitantly.
Yvette had just sent off her final message to a brand endorsement when she heard Sienna's voice. She looked up and scoffed lightly.
"Oh, come on. Crying over a scumbag like that? Do you think he's not laughing behind your back right now?"
Summer, taking a piece of fruit from the plate Yvette had offered, chuckled. "That's why, when it comes to relationships, we should all take advice from you."
A teasing remark, but it helped ease the tension.
Sienna relaxed slightly, sinking into the sofa with a sigh. "I know, I just can't believe how blind I was. If I had never met. Mason, maybe none of this would have happened."
Yvette was being straightforward and direct. "Your life has always been different from mine and Summer's. You grew up in comfort, treated like a princess, protected from the real world. You've never faced the harsh realities of society. That's why you fell for someone like him."
Sienna sniffled, her emotions stirring. "Summer, thank you for today. And also.... thank that prince of yours for me.
The mention of Fraser piqued Yvette's curiosity. Ever since Summer had suspiciously hung up on her the other day, she had been itching to pry into her love life.
"Oh! Is there something I don't know about?"
Summer smiled. "I only managed to get my hands on Mason's dirt because of him. That's how I helped her to get the photos back"
Sienna hesitated before asking. "Summer, what exactly is your relationship with him?"
Yvette arched a brow. "Obviously, he's her boyfriend. A man like him, at the top of the world. Why else would he go out of his way to help you?"
Sienna had considered many possibilities about Summer and Fraser's connection, but this was not one of them.
Her expression shifted subtly
Since childhood, she had known the Graham family name. Graham Group was the largest conglomerate in Havenbrook.
Years ago,
her own family had once tried desperately to establish a connection with them.
But then, the bossman of the Graham Group had left the country for further studies, and their efforts had amounted to nothing
If things had been different back then, if her family had successfully linked up with the Graham family, would she still be the
Echoes of Envy
hold on to him"
Summer simply smiled, taking a sip of her drink, saying nothing.
Sienna glanced at her, her voice soft. "Summer, I really envy you
I envied you all. All of you had changed.
She envied them so much it almost hurt to admit IL
Finished
Yvette, catching the undertone in her words, shot her a subtle glance. Wondering, had it been too long since they last met? Because, somehow, Sienna felt unfamiliar.
At the Aspira Design Institute Office, Merry had taken two days off for personal reasons. And since Yvette's next film shooting had not started yet, she stuck to Summer's side like glue.
That evening, as the three of them left work, they walked through the parking lot, chatting and laughing. Then, they saw a luxurious car parked aside from a distance,
Standing beside it was Mike, bowing politely as they approached.
Yvette narrowed her eyes. That guy, he looks like he's waiting for us......
Mike stepped forward and spoke with the utmost respect. "Ms. Stewart, Mr. Graham has arranged for dinner with you and your friends tonight."
Summer was momentarily stunned. "Why is he inviting us to dinner?"
Yvette gasped in mock surprise. "I can't believe it! Fraser actually listened to my suggestion? My admiration for him just skyrocketed!"
meet you there after
Mike continued smoothly, "A private room has been booked at The Imperial Orchid. Mr. Graham will meet his meeting."
Yvette let out an excited shriek
"The Imperial Orchid? That's the number one must-visit restaurant in Havenbrook! Their guest list is exclusive, and reservations have to be made at least a month in advance! I've tried so many times, but I always miss the timing."
Mike was not done. "Since The Imperial Orchid is in a shopping mall, Mr. Graham also mentioned that you may take your friends shopping beforehand. All expenses will be covered under his account."
Yvette nudged Summer with her elbow. "I never thought I'd achieve financial
freedom in shopping through my best friend.
Sienna's eyes darkened slightly, but she forced a smile.
Send Gifts
Chapter 195
One's Watching, One's Rooting
# Finished
Yvette had to admit, even after meeting tons of stunning men in showbiz, none of them had the kind of effortless class and cool confidence this guy carried. It wasn't something you could fake.
At that moment, Sienna picked up her cup of tea and lifted it slightly toward Fraser. Her tone was sweet and polite. "Mr. Graham, thanks again for helping me get those files on Mason's illegal activities. I figured tonight was a good time to say it properly."
Fraser raised an eyebrow, his eyes flicking lazily to the tea. He didn't return the gesture. Instead, he drummed his fingers on the table with a casual air. "Someone's already thanked me. And besides... I wasn't doing it for you."
That landed with a thud. Sienna's hand froze in the air, still holding the tea awkwardly.
Summer nudged him with her elbow under the table, sending him a silent cut it out.
"Sienna, he's always like that. Don't take it personally"
Sienna gave a tight little smile, then slowly lowered her cup back to the table.
Yvette, used to reading the room from her time in showbiz, jumped in with a grin. "That's what counts as a thank-you? Hmm. If I'm planning a Cranford-style art film this year and hoping for an Oscar nomination, think Mr. Graham might help- for Summer's sake?"
Summer bit her lip. "Yvette!"
Yvette laughed. "What? So protective already?"
Fraser didn't say yes, but he didn't say no either. His gaze drifted lazily toward Summer, soft and full of something deeper. His voice came slow and easy. Depends on her."
Translation? If Summer said yes, it was already done.
And clearly, he was only doing this for her.
Everyone in the industry knew a Cranford-style art film was usually reserved for seasoned legends with decades of critical acclaim.
Yvette, despite being a household name from romantic dramas, wouldn't normally even make it past the door.
She'd just been joking around earlier-half-teasing, half-testing. But now, it looked like her offhand joke might actually turn into a real offer.
She looked at Fraser again, this time with more attention.
Even the richest guy wouldn't throw favors around like this unless he had real feelings for the girl.
No guy's that dumb
With that, Yvette felt a genuine warmth bubble up for Summer. Her smile turned brighter, this time completely sincere.
"Mr. Graham, you're something else. I'll raise a glass to that. I'm drinking mine first-no pressure on you
The server came by now and then to top off their tea or refill their wine glasses.
Fraser lounged back in his chair, looking completely at ease. He barely touched his own plate, more focused on serving Summer. He picked up the crab tool from the table, his long fingers skillfully working through the chilled king crab claws,
The way he handled it-smooth, precise, almost graceful. Piece by piece, he filled a small porcelain plate with soft, sweet crab
at, then casually set it down in front of Summer like it was second nature.
Sienna glanced at the plate without meaning to her raze unreadable, then looked away just as quickly
One's Watching, One's Rooting
Finished
asked
But Fraser... Fraser had that presence. That quiet, untouchable class
The more she thought about it, the more bitter it felt.
Summer leaned forward and started eating the crab Fraser had placed on her
plate. It had to be freshly flown in-the texture was buttery, tender, and absolutely delicious. She was fully in the moment, savoring every bite.
Fraser's voice cut in, deep and easygoing. "Relax. No one's gonna take it from you"
Summer looked up at him. “I'm not rushing
Fraser grabbed a napkin and, without thinking twice, reached over and gently wiped the corner of her mouth. "How old are you again?"
That little gesture-like she was a kid-made Summer's ears turn pink. She glanced around and caught Yvette wiggling her brows with a teasing grin. Summer quickly took the napkin from him. T-I've got it."
Out of nowhere, Sienna stood up, her voice a little stiff. "Excuse me. I'm going to the restroom.'
The VIP dining room was tucked away at the end of a long hallway in The Imperial Orchid.
After stepping out of the restroom, Sienna walked slowly, her mind weighed down with thoughts.
Then she spotted him-not far from the private room-leaning against the wall outside, smoking
Fraser stood there with one hand casually in his pocket, tall and sharp in the soft glow of the restaurant lights. A cigarette rested between the fingers of his other hand. He looked completely at ease, but still impossible to ignore.
Under the chandelier's warm shimmer, his profile stood out-strong lines, a jaw that could cut glass. He didn't need to do anything to command the space.
Even the servers walking by kept sneaking second glances.
Sienna had planned to go straight into the room, but when she reached the door, her steps faltered. She turned and slowly walked toward him instead.
"Mr Graham."
Fraser turned slightly at the sound of her voice. His look was cool, unreadable. "What is it?"
Sienna swallowed hard and took a breath to steady herself.
"The file on Mason-it meant a lot. I know you only helped because of Summer, but I still wanted to thank you properly."
Chapter 196
Not Every Investment Pays in Loyalty
Fraser's face didn't change. He calmly snuffed out the cigarette with no rush. "Didn't you already do that?"
With that, he turned and walked back toward the private room, unbothered.
Finished
As Fraser walked away, Sienna blurted out, almost instinctively, 'Mr. Graham, do you remember the old Monroe Group? Our family attended the Graham Group's 100th anniversary gala. Back then, my parents had a really nice conversation with Mr. Maximus and Madam Graham
Fraser's reply came cool and clipped, a trace of annoyance underneath.
I don't remember,"
The spark of courage she'd built up fizzled out. Still, she clenched her fists, not ready to give up this rare chance to speak to
him.
"Right... things have changed. The Monroe family isn't what it once was. But would you mind if I added you on WhatsApp Maybe someday, my parents could reconnect with your family..."
Fraser shut it down, cutting her off sharply. His face was unreadable. "Ms. Sienna, Summer considers you a close friend."
Sienna froze.
Fraser had no time or interest for anyone who wasn't Summer-and he didn't bother hiding it.
His tone stayed flat, emotionless. "She mentioned you helped her once. That's why I agreed to invest in the design firm. I never believed in it, but I backed her. And now it's clear-she backed the wrong project."
Sienna's expression dropped.
He had cut straight through her.
He saw exactly what was going on under the surface-her envy, her pride, and the little crush she'd let spiral into something
more.
She scrambled to explain. "I know... you and Summer go way back. I'm sorry, I wasn't trying to-
Fraser let out a low, humorless laugh. "Then be grateful. Because of her, you even got this far. So keep your place. I won't let her get hurt because of you."
Back in the private room.
The cold edge in Fraser's expression was completely gone.
He lounged comfortably in his seat, his eyes settling on the smile still playing on Summer's face. He reached out and gently took her hand, rubbing his thumb along her skin.
"What's got you laughing so much?"
Summer's smile hadn't faded—still glowing from one of Yvette's jokes. Her lips curled, her eyes bright with laughter, the soft pink hue of her mouth lifting into the kind of smile that stopped him cold.
We were talking trash about you."
Fraser gave a low, easy laugh. "Oh yeah? What kind of trash talk could you possibly get away with? Sounds like I didn't do enough today."
Yvette, thinking about that indie film she joked about earlier, jumped in with a teasing tone.
Come on. Mr. Graham-you're doing great. Summer said she was seriously touched."
Not Every Investment Pays in Loyalty
Summer grinned. Totally made up."
Fraser chuckled. "Made up's fine. Half-true or not. I'll take it."
Summer rolled her eyes. "Yeah right I don't buy that for a second."
The door to the private room swung open
Sienna stepped in, her face still carrying a trace of discomfort.
Finished
As soon as she walked in and saw Summer and Fraser all cozy and playful, her expression shifted. Whatever was left of her composure cracked.
Summer turned to her. "Sienna, what's wrong?"
Sienna avoided her gaze. Her voice was rushed. "Summer, Yvette-I'm not feeling well. My stomach's off. I'm gonna head
"Sienna-wait-
But before Summer could finish, Sienna had already snatched her bag and
hurried off like she couldn't get our fast enough.
Summer stared after her, puzzled. "What was that about?"
Yvette glanced toward the door, watching Sienna disappear, her eyes unreadable
as ever.
Fraser tapped Summer on the forehead with a light flick of his fingers. "You've got a brain in there, right? Try using it
Summer rubbed the spot. "What was that for?"
"Because you're being slow,
Summer didn't miss a beat. "Well excuse me, Mr. Genius Graham. Some of us mere mortals just can't keep up"
Fraser's light eyes shimmered with a quiet glow as he gave her a gentle sidelong glance.
"Obviously. Be a good girl and ask me nicely, I might teach you."
Summer was just about to respond, when Yvette chimed in with a layered, teasing tone, T'm with him. Summer, I really do think you should ask nicely."
Back at Ravenshire Boulevard.
Summer was still turning it over in her head. "Okay but seriously-why was Yvette telling me to ask nicely too? What are you two plotting?"
Fraser was undoing his tie, throwing her a look from across the room-lowkey and unreadable.
"Say the magic words and I'll tell you"
Summer pulled her legs up onto the couch and started flipping through TV channels,
"Yeah no. Not happening"
Fraser dropped his jacket and tie next to the couch without a second thought.
Then he sank down next to her, stretching out with that easy kind of confidence. One arm rested behind her on the back of the couch muscle lines defined and smooth under his shirt. The flicker of the TV danced across his face, casting his eyes in
sdow-dark and bottomless like they could swallow the whole room.
Chapter 197
Quiet Moments, Loud Hearts.
Fraser's voice dipped into something teasing
"You don't? Then what do you want? Want me to spoil you a little?"
Summer's face went red. She grabbed a throw pillow and chucked it at him.
"How about none of the above?"
Finished
Fraser's hand slipped from the back of the couch and pulled her right into his lap.
He leaned in, his mouth near her ear, voice
low and warm.
"You sure about that?"
His breath was hot against her skin.
Summer flinched twice, completely betraying herself.
Being with Fraser lately-it felt like they were in a whole different kind of relationship.
Even though their three-month deadline was already halfway over, neither of them had brought it up again.
Maybe that's just how people are. When the end is coming, you start to hold on tighter. Like maybe you're afraid to break it.
Summer straddled Fraser's lap sideways, feeling the tension and power coiled beneath her.
She wrapped her arms around his neck and tugged him down to her level.
Then she leaned in and gently bit his Adam's apple, speaking into his skin with a playful smile.
"Yeah... still don't want it.
Fraser's throat flexed hard under her teeth.
His eyes went dark-dangerously dark.
He couldn't remember a time Summer had ever been this bold.
He tilted his head down, locking onto her with a look that burned. His voice dropped to something rough and low
"You say no, but you're biting me? What are you, part puppy?"
Summer felt her skin flush under the intensity of his stare.
They were so close now.
She could see everything-the flutter of his lashes, the curve of his eyes, the heat behind the way he was looking at her.
Her lips found his, slow and deliberate.
His mouth was cool against hers, laced with the faint trace of smoke and something unmistakably his. The kind of taste that pulled her in like a drug-
Summer leaned back slightly, her lips still brushing his as she said with a smirk, "What, am I not allowed to?"
Fraser let out a short laugh.
Great Note the's figured out how to get under my skin.
In one smooth motion, he rolled her beneath him on the couch, his gaze dark and locked in
Quiet Moments, Loud Hearts
Summer could feel his fingers, slow and deliberate, slipping open the buttons on her shirt.
Finished
Her heartbeat thundered in her chest. There was something different about tonight-something that made her want what
came next
Then the doorbell rang
Just like that, the fog in her mind cleared. She pushed him off and sat up quickly, frantically fixing her shirt.
"Who's that?"
Fraser stayed where he was, shooting her a look full of unfinished business.
She caught the heat still lingering in his eyes and couldn't help but laugh. She gave his leg a light kick with her bare foot.
"You go get it."
Fraser shrugged with a sigh and dragged himself toward the door, clearly not thrilled.
At the front door stood one of the housekeepers holding a fluffy white pup- Pudding.
"Mr. Graham, we've brought Pudding over."
Summer leaned over Fraser's shoulder to look, her face lighting up the moment she saw the dog. She jumped up with
excitement.
"Pudding"
eThat's when Fraser remembered-he'd asked someone a couple days ago to bring the dog over.
Perfect. I just ruined my own night.
He dropped down on one knee and rubbed the dog's chin with a deadpan look. "Alright, pal. You're on your own tonight. Got it?"
But Pudding wasn't having it. He wriggled out of Fraser's grip and took off straight toward Summer, barking happily
She hadn't seen him in a while and was over the moon. Even though the dog was huge, she still threw her arms around him like a kid with her favorite stuffed animal.
Fraser shut the door and folded his arms, watching the two of them goof around- right there on the couch where he and Summer had just been this close to taking things further.
He let out a low sigh.
Great. Two people and a dog. Kinda starting to feel like a full house tonight.
Fraser strolled over and leaned against the couch like he owned the room, legs spread in that effortlessly cocky way. His eyes fixed on Summer, brooding and unreadable.
"Seriously? All your attention's on the dog?"
Yeah-he was jealous, and not even pretending otherwise.
Pudding was still bouncing around Summer like a hyper toddler.
She looked up at Fraser and considered throwing him a bone, just to smooth him
over.
But Pudding wasn't letting up, so she gave Fraser a quick smile and said. “Just keep yourself busy for a minute"
Fraser grabbed the remote and started flipping through channels, occasionally sneaking glances at the two of them.
Chapter 198
Just Come to My Office
Fraser scoffed, "He just got here and you're already shutting me down?"
She looked at him-grumpy, dramatic, way too serious-and couldn't help but laugh.
Finished
Summer headed to the fridge and pulled out a big mixing bowl. She packed it with deli meats-ham, rolled turkey, salami- until it was completely full, then placed it in front of Pudding.
The dog immediately dug in, chomping happily and noisily.
Crouching beside him, Summer ran her hand through his fluffy fur and casually asked, “Pudding's adorable. I remember you said you were taking care of him for someone else. Was it a first love or something?"
Fraser looked up from the couch, his eyes lazy but unreadable. After a pause, he gave her a slow wave of his finger.
Summer licked her lips, trying to play it cool.
She walked over calmly, but before she could react, he reached out and pulled her in-placing her right between his legs. They were eye to eye now, breaths brushing against each other.
Summer immediately felt off-balance. She hated how vulnerable this position made her feel and started to step back.
But Fraser's legs closed around hers, holding her there, warm and firm on either side.
His lips tugged up in a smirk, dark eyes fixed on her. "What's this? Feeling a little jealous?"
Summer fluttered her lashes, her face flashing with flustered defiance. But she recovered quickly and tilted her chin.
"Jealous? Of what? I was just wondering who got to call this dog theirs before I did."
Fraser lifted his eyes and just watched her, perfectly still The corners of his eyes softened into that familiar half-smile. There was something in his gaze-warm and shining, like starlight drifting across the surface.
Summer met his eyes and felt it. There was something different there. Something deeper.
He reached out and gently pinched her earlobe.
It was a habit of his-he loved playing with her ear like it was the softest thing in
the world. Small, delicate, and always warm between his fingers.
And when he bit it? She'd fall apart. He knew it. He loved it.
As soon as he touched her this time, the cool brush of his fingertips made the
tips of her ears flush red. Her breath caught, just barely.
"Why's your face turning red?"
"Hmph, maybe because you touched me out of nowhere?"
Fraser's eyes softened with a quiet smile. "Close your eyes." "Why?"
"I want to kiss you.
The second she blinked, his lips pressed gently to her forehead-soft, warm, and perfect.
And just before he pulled away, she could've sworn she heard him murmur, "I'l
tell you who my first love was... when you stop by my office."
Just Come to My Office
casually against the doorway.
Arms crossed and expression tight, Yvette stared straight at her.
"You're here early. Sienna said, surprised.
Finished
Yvette had been stopping by here and there lately. But she usually spent her mornings catching up on sleep and rolled in during the afternoon-just in time to grab dinner with Summer.
Yvette's tone was ice-cold. "I came here just to see you." We need to talk.
Sienna stood up slowly, a knot forming in her stomach.
"Okay... have a seat. What's going on? You look serious,"
Yvette dropped her designer bag on the table like she couldn't be bothered with pleasantries and went straight in.
"Did you say something to Fraser yesterday?"
Sienna froze.
She tried to play dumb.
"I don't know what you mean. I just bumped into him outside the restroom. He was smoking. We barely spoke."
Yvette had been in show business long enough to spot the fakes-the sweet talkers, the schemers, the ones who played innocent while planning their next move.
Watching Sienna now, trying to play it cool, only confirmed everything she already knew.
"Summer's not like me. She trusts people too easily. She never once thought you'd cross a line. But I watched you yesterday. every little move. And let's not pretend anymore-you're into Fraser."
Sienna's eyes dropped instantly. She couldn't meet Yvette's glare. It was cold and sharp-like she was being carved up with every word.
Her face drained of color. She swallowed hard.
"Summer's
friend. I would never... You've got it wrong, Yvette
Yvette's eyes didn't soften. If anything, they sharpened.
"People always want more than they deserve. And Fraser? He's the kind of man most women only dream of-class, power, everything. And you... it was written all over your face. You're jealous that Summer has someone like him while you ended up with Mason. That's why you tried to pull something"
Sienna was shaking now, her voice rushed and defensive. "Yvette, you can't just accuse me like that. You don't have proof. We're all friends-how could you say something so cruel!"
Chapter 199
Trust Broken, Ties Cut
Finished
Yvelle's voice cut like glass. "I'm this angry because we were friends. And I feel it for Summer too. You know she had plans to start her own firm-on her own. But when you ran into trouble, she put those plans aside to invest in Aspira just to help you. She's poured more into this place than you ever have. And when she found out Mason was threatening you, she bent over backward trying to fix it. And how do you repay her? You try to flirt with her boyfriend? It makes me sick. You're not the same Sienna I used to respect.
Each word pushed Sienna closer to the edge until she finally snapped.
Her eyes burned red, her voice cracked with rage.
"You don't get to talk to me like that, Yvette. After my family lost everything. I've done nothing but struggle and survive. I've tried to stay decent, tried to work hard. But life hasn't let up. Mason hasn't let up. I've been cornered over and over. What do you expect me to do? I'm just trying to climb back up. That's not a crime. And let's be honest-a man like Fraser? You think he's gonna stay loyal to just one woman? I wasn't trying to take anything from Summer. I just wanted to use him, that's all."
Tears spilled down her cheeks, but she swiped them away with a trembling hand. Her voice dropped, low and bitter.
"I know the truth. You and Summer live in a different world now. Everything's changed. You both think you're above me- that I don't belong next to you
anymore."
Yvette saw red. Sienna actually thought she'd done nothing wrong. Like she had every right to act the way she did.
Disgust flashed across Yvette's face.
She said, "Nobody's looking down on you. The only one doing that is you I don't care what Fraser's status is or how many women might come after him. What matters is he's with Summer right now. And as her friends, it's our job to respect that Even when Summer and 1 were broke back in school, we still had a moral compass. We never let jealousy turn us into something gross. Sienna, this isn't about your situation-it's about you choosing to chase after status, no matter the cost.
Sienna's face turned red, burning with a mix of shame and fury. Her fists were clenched so tight her knuckles went white.
She wanted to scream back-to throw it in Yvette's face that it was easy to be noble from up high. That if they were stuck where she was, they'd claw their way out harder and dirtier than she ever had.
But she didn't.
She couldn't
Aspira Design Institute was at a critical point. Things were finally moving.
Summer couldn't know-not yet Not about Fraser. Not about any of it.
She still needed Summer's money. Her contacts. Everything she had to offer. Aspira Design Institute couldn't grow without it.
If Summer found out she'd even thought about going after Fraser and pulled her support, it would all come crashing down.
She'd be left with nothing
Sienna took a shaky breath, forcing herself to get it together. She stepped up to Yvette and grabbed her hand, voice soft and desperate.
Yvette, please... don't tell Summer. I wasn't thinking straight. It was just a moment of weakness. I wasn't trying to hurt anyone.
Yvette yanked her hand back.
"The only reason I'm here talking to you one-on-one is because I care about how this would affect her. I'm sure Fraser kept quiet for the same reason- otherwise he'd have told her everything already."
Sienna's eyes filled with tears as she begged. "I get it messed up. Please, just give me one more chance. I'll behave. I swear i
Trust Broken, Ties Cut
They both turned to see Summer and Merry standing there, completely still.
Summer's file folder had hit the floor.
Florshed
Sienna felt her stomach drop. Her whole body froze, her thoughts scattered like broken glass. She went pale, her voice shaking, "Summer... did you hear all of that?"
That morning, Summer had planned to take Merry to meet with a client, but realized she forgot an important file. They came back to grab it.
And instead walked into something else entirely.
Yvette looked at Summer, concerned, "You okay?"
Summer's face was pale, her voice tight and cold, like she was holding everything
in
"So that's what that whole 'be a good girl and ask nicely thing yesterday was really about, God... I really am such a fool"
Sienna rushed forward, her words falling over themselves, 'Summer, no-you misunderstood. I was just. I had a lapse in judgment. But I swear, nothing happened between me and Fraser. Please don't get the wrong idea."
The more Summer watched her panic, the more bitter it felt.
All that trust. Just thrown away.
"Oh yeah?"
Sienna took that as a sign she was believing her and pushed harder, "Yes. You're my best friend. I would never betray you. 1
mean it."
Summer took a step back, shutting the distance down. "And what do you think betrayal is, Sienna? Only if he actually sleeps with you?"
Send Gifts
Chapter 200
I Need to See Fraser
Sienna kept shaking her head, eyes filling with tears, panic written all over her face.
Finished
Summer inhaled deeply, calm to the point of being cold. "Whatever you did for me in the past-we're square now. From today on, I don't owe you anything."
Sienna begged. "Summer, please. I messed up. Just give me another chance.
Summer didn't say another word. She threw the rest of the files in her hand at Sienna hard and walked out without looking back
Yvette gave Sienna one last look-sharp, scornful-then grabbed her designer bag from the table and headed after Summer without another word
Sienna watched them go, her eyes dark with fury. She muttered under her breath, "Why? I only talked to Fraser for a few minutes. He didn't even flirt back. And now they're acting like I've committed a crime. Friends? Please. They've never treated me like a real friend. It's all been fake from the start."
Merry stood frozen, her expression unreadable.
By all accounts, she should've sided with Sienna. She was the first employee Sienna ever hired. They'd worked closely for almost a year. If anyone owed her loyalty, it should've been Merry,
But she couldn't do it
Merry bit down on her lip, then spoke quietly but clearly. "I'm sorry, Sienna. I can't keep working here. I'm quitting."
Sienna whipped around, stunned. "Merry-we've been building Aspira together for a whole year. You're really quitting over Summer?
Merry's gaze didn't waver and said, "This isn't about Summer. I may be young, but I know what's right and wrong. And I don't want to work for someone like this."
She turned and walked out without looking back.
A moment later, the sound of things being thrown, breaking, shattering, filled the office as Sienna lost control and tore the room apart.
Summer made her way down to the parking garage and climbed into the car. She sank into the driver's seat, leaning back. with no strength left in her body. Her eyes were dull-blank, like she'd turned off completely.
The passenger side door opened a moment later.
Yvette got in without a word. She glanced over at Summer, whose face was pale and frozen with shock.
"Summer, I never wanted you to find out about something this disgusting. But maybe it's better you did. People like that don't deserve to be in our lives."
Summer gave a quiet hum in response and said nothing else.
Silence settled over the car.
Yvette didn't push. She knew Summer was sitting in the quiet, trying to absorb it
all.
So she stayed put, just keeping her company.
Eventually, Summer broke the silence. Her voice was scratchy and low, "Yvette... am I stupid?"
Yvette felt a small wave of relief. She was talking again. She was coming back.
Need to See Fraser
#Finished
Summer let out a long breath, "I just never imagined Sienna would turn into this. I was always trying to do right by her. And now? I just feel like such an idiot."
Yvette reached across the center console and wrapped her hand around Summer's, holding it tightly.
"You're not an idiot. You're just a good person. Being used by someone doesn't make you wrong-it just means she didn't deserve you.
Summer's eyes started to water. She looked over at Yvette, "Thanks, Yvette." At least I still have you.
"Come on now. You know you mean the world to me. I just want to see you happy"
Yvette paused for a beat, then said with quiet certainty, "That's why I need you to know-Fraser really does have feelings for you. I'm sure of it now"
Suddenly, Summer remembered what Fraser had said the day before.
Come to my office and I'll tell you who my first love is.
Yvette's words stirred something deep in her chest.
Summer felt this sharp, unshakable urge rise up
inside her.
She needed to know-why hadn't Fraser said anything when Sienna came on to him?
Was it because he didn't want her to get hurt?
And if so... why was that? Why would it matter to him?
Her heart pounded in her chest, like something big was on the edge of breaking
free.
She bit down on her lip, Yvette... I need to go see Fraser."
She said her goodbyes, then stepped on the gas.
The car sliced through the road, fast and focused, heading straight for the Caham Group headquarters.
Summer's thoughts were scattered like wind-blown leaves-light, unsettled. It felt like checking her SAT score back in high school, the way her heart raced while she braced for what she didn't want to know.
She needed clarity. She needed to know where she stood with Fraser.
As she approached the last turn before the building, the car's phone lit up and started ringing.
She glanced at the screen-it was from her family.
After a second of hesitation, she answered.
Zoey's voice came through, panicked. "Ms. Stewart, please-you need to come
home. Mrs. Stewart just attempted suicide.