Ch. 221..230
Chapter 221
When Paths Cross Again
Round after round of charity auctions unfolded on the grand stage.
+8 Pearls
From the moment Summer stepped inside, her g
gaze instinctively landed
on the
man seated closest to the stage.
That table was surrounded by men of extraordinary bearing, encircled by a dazzling array of women in exquisite gowns and flawless makeup
It was no surprise that the first person she noticed was Fraser. He stood out far too much.
His profile was like a masterpiece, sculpted with precision. His thick brows, deep- set eyes, and sharply defined nose bridge. formed a strikingly aggressive handsomeness.
He lounged in the main seat, broad shoulders draped in a custom-tailored suit. A meticulously tied bowtie adored his collar, the crisp lines of his jacket tapering at the waist, leading down to long legs clad in pitch-black trousers.
Even amidst the dazzling brilliance of the evening, he lost none of his radiance.
It had been nearly a month since Summer last saw him. Their lives had ceased to intersect.
Now, as she stood there, she found herself frozen, eyes locked onto his figure without warning.
Perhaps her stare was too intense. The next moment, Fraser's idle gaze drifted over the crowd and briefly swept past her.
It lasted no more than a few seconds, a fleeting glance that barely lingered before slipping away indifferently, as if he had not even registered who she was.
Summer could not quite describe what she felt All she knew was that his dark, fathomless eyes felt unbearably distant, so foreign that even he, as a whole, seemed utterly unreachable.
Yvette tugged at her arm. "Summer, did you see it? That's Fraser! And right beside him, that's Leann Burke, this year's Oscar-winning actress! Look at her! She's practically throwing herself at him!"
When Summer did not respond, Yvette turned her head, only to find her friend's face unsettlingly pale.
Assuming Summer was seething with anger, she gritted her teeth and, without hesitation, pulled her through the crowd, straight toward the table.
By the time Summer snapped out of it, they were already standing before the table nearest the stage.
A moment of silence,
Every pair of eyes at the table turned to them, sizing them up.
Yvette's gaze flickered across the scene. The people here were the elite of Havenbrook. All powerful and untouchable. A single word from them could crush her career before it even started.
For a brief second, doubt crept into her mind. But when she thought of Summer, she straightened her spine, forcing herself to stand tall
Her eyes moved from Leann to the regal man seated at the main seat of the table. She said with a smirk, "Hah! Why does this man look so much like my best friend's boyfriend?"
The atmosphere shifted. Interest sparked in every gaze.
Even Leann, the Oscar-winning actress who commanded attention wherever she went, had only been acknowledged by Fraser as a mere 'companion' tonight, never a girlfriend.
Fraser lifted his eyes lazily, his deep, unreadable gaze brushing past the two women with a faint trace of amusement. His voice, low and smooth, carried a touch of mockery. "I don't recall having a girlfriend"
Leann's eyes settled on the woman before her.
Leann was the reigning darling of the Oscars and the global brand ambassador for one of Graham Group's top labels. When she learned that the bossman of the Graham family would be attending tonight's charity gala, she seized the opportunity
These high-society events always called for a female companion, and so she had personally asked her agent to arrange for her to be his date.
She had not expected much. But to her astonishment, the Graham Group's special assistant had conveyed his agreement.
She had been ecstatic.
Tonight, she had meticulously crafted her appearance, determined to leave an impression on him. Yet, despite her efforts, the bossman remained distant. His gaze was cold, his demeanor aloof, as if she were no more than an afterthought. Still, Leann was not disheartened. Even without his attention, simply sitting beside him had made her the envy of the entire room. The way they looked at her, those glances filled with admiration and longing, far surpassed the satisfaction of winning an Oscar.
After all, Fraser's name alone was synonymous with absolute power.
Summer's clear, unwavering gaze remained locked onto Fraser. Then, without a trace of emotion, her eyes flickered to Leann
She was even more breathtaking in person than on screen.
Summer had never watched her films. But she had heard enough from Merry on how Leann was more than just a pretty face, how her talent was undeniable, how she was often hailed as every man's ultimate dream.
And now, she sat beside Fraser. They looked perfect together.
Even though Summer had long known that the woman destined to be Fraser's wife would never be her. But seeing them together, so perfectly matched, like a picture of elegance and charm, somehow made Summer's eyes sting with an inexplicable pain.
Chapter 222
Tears of Stars.
Hearing Fraser's words, Summer's hands clenched into tight fists.
It was yet another brutal reminder that they had truly broken up.
+8 Pearls
She bit down on her lip, forcing herself to breathe. "Sorry, Yvette. You must've mistaken him for someone else. He's not my boyfriend."
Beside Fraser, Leann felt as if his gaze had turned even colder, distant to the point of indifference. Perhaps it was just the lights.
Without waiting for a response, Summer reached for Yvette's hand, intending to leave.
Yvette, confused, gave her a searching look, as if asking, "What's going on?"
At the same time, the entire banquet hall dimmed slightly. The lights and music focused sharply on the stage as one of the jevening's most prestigious auction pieces was revealed.
An exquisite diamond necklace lay inside a crystal-clear glass case. It was a masterpiece of fine craftsmanship, adorned with rows of flawless diamonds, each twinkling like the brightest stars in the night sky. Elegant yet undeniably luxurious, it was a breathtaking work of art.
The host took the microphone and announced, "This is Tears of the Stars, a diamond necklace once worn by Princess Delilah herself. The starting bid is 1 million dollars. All proceeds will be donated to underprivileged children in Africa."
Leann, seated closest to the stage, let out a soft gasp. "It's stunning-" she murmured
man beside her chuckled teasingly. "If our esteemed Leann likes it so much, why not have our bossman bid for it and gift it to you? This necklace, elegant and refined, suits your noble aura perfectly!
Another guest chimed in, "Exactly! And wasn't your last film called Teary Stars? Talk about destiny!"
Leann's radiant eyes shifted from the necklace to Fraser. Her gaze shimmered with anticipation, laced with a shy, unspoken plea. The kind of look that made men want to offer her the world.
Fraser lifted his lids lazily, his gaze sweeping over her. The corners of his lips curled into a smirk, laced with mischief. "You like it?"
Leann's heart pounded.
Even though she could technically afford a necklace like this, if he were the one to gift it, it would mean something entirely different.
Especially tonight, at an event of such grand prestige.
If he placed a bid for her, tomorrow's headlines would be dominated by her name. Her fame would skyrocket once again.
A soft blush bloomed across Leann's cheeks. This is too extravagant she murmured coyly
A bid for 15 million was called..
Fraser remained unfazed. He lifted his paddle. "6 million."
The entire room erupted in shock. Most auction piece price increments ranged between 690 thousand to 1 million at most. Yet the prince had raised the bid to 6 million without a blink. His overwhelming display of wealth silenced any competition.
The gavel struck down.
"Sold! Congratulations to Mr. Graham of Graham Group for winning this exquisite piece at fifty million!"
Standing on the sidelines, Summer bit her lip so hard that she tasted blood. It felt as if a blade had sliced straight through her. heart, leaving a wound that bled with every beat.
Yvette hesitated for a moment, glancing back and forth between them. But when she caught sight of Summer trembling shoulders, she bit her lip and ran after her.
Summer ran far, far beyond the grand entrance of the banquet hall before finally slowing down.
Yvette caught up, stepping in front of her, blocking her path.
"Summer, what the hell was that?" she demanded. "Why would he give her that necklace? That thing costs a fortune"
Summer tried to keep her voice steady, but the slight tremor and the redness in her eyes betrayed her. "We broke up."
"For real!" Yvette had thought Summer was just saying it before, but now "Breaking up is one thing, but moving on this fast! That's just disgusting You don't deserve this. Summer."
Hearing those words. Summer's vision blurred. Tears, hot and relentless, slipped down her face.
she could not hold them back anymore. She crouched down. her shoulders trembling violently as sobs wracked through her body.
"I'm fine, I just need to cry a little. Summer reached into her pocket for a tissue.
In her haste, something else slipped out. It was an ultrasound report.
Summer scrambled to pick it up quickly.
Chapter 223
Carrying More Than a Broken Heart
Yvette was quicker. She bent down and picked up the ultrasound report before Summer could reach it.
+B Pearls
The moment her eyes landed on the words, her pupils contracted, and she stared
in shock. "Summer, you're pregnant? It's Fraser's, isn't it?"
Summer remained silent. That silence was all the confirmation Yvette needed. Rage ignited within her, burning hot and wild.
That scumbag! How dare he treat Summer like this?
Yvette had actually believed that Fraser truly cared about Summer, that his feelings were sincere. And yet, tonight, he had bought another woman an extravagant diamond necklace right in front of Summer.
Men. They're all the same!
Yvette gritted her teeth. "No, I have to go in there and tell him!"
Summer grabbed her arm desperately, pleading. "Yvette, if you truly consider me your friend, you won't tell him."
Yvette frowned. "Do you really want to be a single mother? No matter how powerful the Graham family is, no matter how high they stand, this child is still their bloodline."
Summer shook her head, her voice choked with emotion. "Yvette, will you keep me company when I get an abortion?"
Yvette froze.
Abortion?
She had been in the entertainment industry long enough to hear rumors of female celebrities secretly getting abortions, but she never thought she would hear that word from Summer.
Summer was supposed to be pure. Untainted.
"Summer, are you serious?"
A flicker of hesitation flashed across Summer's eyes, but after a moment, she nodded.
Yvette's heart clenched with fury. "Summer, this isn't a small decision! It could harm your body, and it's a life."
Summer lowered her gaze, pain evident in her expression.
Of course, she knew it was a life. But more than that, it was an accident.
"Yvette, if I don't go through with it, what then? Let the child be born as an illegitimate child? We both grew up in families without love. Do you really want another child to suffer the same fate?"
Yvette opened her mouth to argue but could not find the words.
Meanwhile, inside the grand charity gala hall, two women in elegant dresses gracefully carried a luxurious black velvet box towards Fraser's table.
The men at the table chuckled, while the women looked at Leann with envy and jealousy.
"Mr. Graham really is generous. Spending a fortune just to make a beauty smile" Leann, you're truly lucky. The most valuable piece tonight belongs to you" Leann, flattered, lowered her gaze with a shy smile. "You all exaggerate too much."
Fraser reached out lazily, his slender fingers picking up the dazzling diamond necklace from the box. He gazed at it indifferently, his expression unreadable. With his other hand, he tapped the table lightly.
Carrying More Than a Broken Heart
neck, waiting for him to put it around her.
The diamonds sparkled brilliantly, reflecting in Fraser's dark eyes. His gaze remained unreadable.
Leann's heart pounded faster, the corners of her lips curling up in anticipation. Suddenly, they heard a soft thud.
Fraser casually tossed the necklace back into the velvet box. "Put it away."
+8 Pearls
He stood up lazily, his sharp gaze sweeping across the table before landing on the charity organizer. His deep voice was: casual, yet it carried an undeniable authority.
"Aleg, I'm adding another 6 million dollars. Make it an even 12 million dollars for the African children's fund"
Then, he turned to leave.
The room fell into stunned silence
Leann blinked rapidly, her body stiffening. The crushing weight of disappointment hit her like a wave.
Her carefully maintained smile faltered as she shot up from her seat, blurting out, "Mr. Graham, wasn't this necklace meant for me?"
Fraser halted. He glanced sideways at her, the corners of his lips lifting into a smirk. "When did I ever say that?"
Leann paled. Fraser did not specifically say it was for her, but he did ask her if she liked it!
Had I misunderstood? Impossible.
"You asked me if I liked it, she whispered. "I thought... I assumed..."
Fraser chuckled lightly, but there was no warmth in his voice. "Liking something and owning it are two very different things. If you don't understand that, maybe you should ask your language teacher for another lesson."
Then, he lost all patience and strode out, not sparing her another glance.
The onlookers exchanged glances, murmuring among themselves.
Mr. Graham had always been reckless, doing as he pleased without a care for others. Tonight was no exception.
Chapter 224
The Ghost of What Was
The admiration in their eyes faded, replaced by scorn and ridicule.
Under their scrutinizing gazes, Leann's face burned with humiliation, her cheeks flushed a fiery red,
In Brookhaven Estates, Yvette dropped Summer home.
Neither of them spoke a word during the drive.
+8 Pearls
As Summer was about to get out of the car, Yvette hesitated for a moment before finally speaking. "Think it over carefully."
No matter what decision Summer made, she would stand by her. If Summer decided to keep the baby, they could raise it together.
Tears welled up in Summer's eyes as she smiled, touched by the gesture. She promised she would think about it seriously.
Since Julia was still in Europe, Summer had not returned to the Stewart Mansion. Tonight, she had chosen to come back here instead.
İ
After getting out of the car, she did not go inside immediately. Instead, she wandered aimlessly around the quiet neighborhood.
Her thoughts were a tangled mess. She had made up her mind to sever all ties with Fraser. Yet fate seemed determined to play cruel jokes on her.
A cool autumn breeze swept past, sending a chill down her spine. Goosebumps rose on her arms, and suddenly, nausea churned in her stomach.
She retched.
The physical reaction stirred something deep within her.
It was only now, in this moment, that she truly felt the life growing inside her.
Her chest tightened, a dull, throbbing pain spreading through her ribs, as though she had been stabbed with a blunt knife.
Not far away, a sleek black luxury car was parked in the shadows, its hazard lights off.
A man leaned against the car, one hand buried in his pocket. At his feet, a pile of cigarette butts had accumulated. Between his fingers, a scarlet ember still flickered.
He had been here for a while.
Both the man and the car blended seamlessly into the darkness. People could not even notice if they did not look carefully.
Fraser's eyes were dark, unfathomable, locked onto the slender figure in the distance. He exhaled a deep drag of his cigarette, his expression unreadable. Yet, whether it was the nicotine or something else, the restlessness in his chest only grew stronger.
The image of her fragile back as she left the charity gala haunted him, gnawed at him. He had to come.
Impatiently, Fraser flicked the cigarette to the ground, grinding the ember beneath the toe of his shoe until it was. extinguished.
After a long pause, he opened the car door, slid into the driver's seat, and slammed on the gas. The deafening roar of the engine shattered the night's silence, echoing through the entrance of Brookhaven Estates. The car tore through the streets, leaving a trail of dust in its wake.
Hearing the sound, Summer instinctively turned her head. She caught a fleeting glimpse of a luxury sports car disappearing into the distance.
It was too fast for her to see the license plate clearly. But..
The Ghost of What Was
The next day when Summer arrived at the office, her assistant was already waiting with the day's itinerary.
48 Pearls
"Ms. Stewart, we have a meeting with the client for the first quarterly review of the Global Plan Project this afternoon. We'll need to go to the Graham Group's investment department.
This was the same project the Graham Group had invested 810 million dollars into.
As the servicing party, it was their responsibility to present progress reports and future plans to the chent
Hearing the words Graham Group. Summer's fingers tightencil around the documents she was holding
Her role had changed. She was now the main person in charge of the Stewart Group. As the servicing party, she had a duty to: fulfill.
After a moment of thought, she reassured herself. This was just one of many projects under the Graham Group's vast investment portfolio.
The person in charge had always been Diana from the investment department. Fraser himself was ton busy. He would not be there.
With that thought, Summer nodded. "Understood."
Summer arrived at the Graham Group's headquarters with two vice presidents that afternoon.
The towering skyscraper stood imposingly against the skyline, exuding wealth and power.
secretary led them to the 56th-floor conference room
It was a massive space, capable of holding nearly fifty people. Floor-to-ceiling windows provided a panoramic view of the city's iconic landmarks.
Seated in the conference room, Summer's emotions were complicated.
The last time she was here, she had been on the verge of gathering the courage
to seek out Fraser and to find out if there was even a shred of love in his heart for her.
She had been so close.
Now, she was here again, but under vastly different circumstances. They were strangers now.
A few moments later, the door swung open once more.
Diana entered, followed by a group of well-dressed executives.
Summer's gaze flickered past them instinctively. She did not see him..
Only then did the tension in her chest begin to ease
Diana, the head of Graham Group's investment department, had always been
the main overseer of the Global Plan Project
Chapter 225
The Price of a Billion-Dollar Deal
She was well aware of the recent internal changes within Stewart Group.
+8 Pearls
Diana maintained her usual professional warmth, "Miss Stewart oh, no, I should address you as Chairwoman Stewart now!
Summer remained modest. "It's just a title. Besides, we are still the secondary party in this partnership"
She then began her report. "Thanks to Graham Group's investment, the Global Plan Project achieved a profitable first quarter. Moving forward, we plan to expand into the eastern overseas market.."
Just as she was speaking, a knock sounded at the conference room door. She paused, turning toward the unexpected interruption.
Fraser's special assistant, Mike, entered.
"Ms. Stewart, you are requested to personally report the next quarter's Global Plan Project plans in Mr. Graham's office."
Summer froze. Her project was relatively minor. Why did she need to report it directly to his office?
The Graham Group employees exchanged puzzled looks. It was rare for Mr. Graham to personally concern himself with such a small investment project.
In fact, this was the first time anyone had seen him specifically summon someone to his office for a project update.
Diana quickly recalled the circumstances of their previous contract negotiations
It seemed that Summer's and Mr. Graham's relationship was far from simple.
Reacting swiftly, she explained, "Ms. Stewart, the Global Plan Project was personally approved by Mr. Graham, so your report must go through the executive office's procedures.
Summer had no choice. Her two vice presidents expressed their understanding and prepared to accompany her.
But Mike spoke firmly, "Mr. Graham specifically requested Ms. Stewart to go alone."
Summer was speechless.
Following Mike, Summer arrived at Fraser's office.
Mike knocked respectfully.
A deep, leisurely voice came from inside. "Come in.
Mike pushed the door open and gestured for her to enter.
Summer hesitated at the threshold, clenched her hands briefly, then released them and stepped inside.
Behind her, the door clicked shut. She quickly realized that Fraser was not alone.
In the seating area, several men in suits were gathered, engaged in a meeting. Fraser sat on a black leather single-seater sofa, positioned with his back to the floor-to-ceiling window.
He wore a black dress shirt with gray trousers, his collar unbuttoned at the top, exuding effortless authority.
His long legs were casually crossed.
The other executives sat in two rows, engaged in discussion.
As the door opened, Fraser's gaze lifted. His deep, black eyes locked onto her,
sharper and more piercing than usual. His stare Impered on her for a few seconds before he looked away
But as the servicing party in this business deal, she had no choice but to cooperate. Silently, she found a seat in the distance and waited.
Suddenly, something one of his subordinates said seemed to displease him.
Fraser let out a cold scoff. Even from her seat. Summer could sense the sudden tension in the room.
After nearly thirty minutes, the meeting concluded.
Once the others had left. Summer hesitated for a moment before finally standing and approaching him.
Fraser remained in his seat, flipping through a document, seemingly oblivious to her presence.
The air around him was heavy with indifference.
Standing there awkwardly, Summer pressed her lips together and spoke in a neutral, professional tone. "Mr. Graham. I'm here to present Stewart Group's next quarter plans for the Global Plan Project."
Only then did Fraser lift his head, casting her a fleeting glance. With an almost dismissive gesture, he tilted his chin, signaling for her to proceed
Then, he lowered his head again and turned to another page of his document.
The soft rustle of paper filled the office. Summer felt as if she had become just another subordinate. Someone seeking approval from her superior.
If she had known it would come to this, she would have never accepted his 1 billion investment in the first place.
All she wanted now was to finish her report and leave.
Pushing aside her discomfort, she started presenting the project update. Halfway through her explanation, she noticed that his attention had shifted.
At some point, Fraser had stopped reading the document. He was now resting his head against his hand, his gaze fixed
intently on her.
Caught off guard. Summer momentarily lost her train of thought.
After a long silence, his calm, indifferent voice broke through the air. Nt's lunchtime. Let's eat first."
Before she could respond, he picked up the phone and ordered a meal to be brought in.
Summer quickly shook her head. Tm not hungry."
Fraser's lips curled slightly, his tone unreadable. "I am. If you're not hungry, then
just sit and watch me eat."
Chapter 226
When Dinner Gets Dicey
+8 Pearls
Summer knew that Fraser had always been domineering and self-centered, but his past behavior towards her had mostly involved teasing and pampering her.
Now, however, he was like a lofty client scrutinizing and commanding her, and all she could do was comply. Thinking about this, a sourness welled up in her heart.
Soon after, Mike brought in the elegantly prepared meals and set them on the table. The dishes included baked fish, crab dip, beef stir-fry, boiled shrimp, and collagen soup.
Under normal circumstances, Summer would have had an appetite for these light seafood dishes; however, smelling them now made her feel slightly nauseous.
Still, she forced herself to endure, not wanting to show any signs of discomfort.
Fraser, with a lazy lift of his eyebrows, ignored the woman standing by and began eating slowly. His movements were pleasing to watch, but standing there, Summer felt more like a fool.
She sat down angrily on the side, silent, sipping only some soup.
Fraser's dark gaze flickered past her without a trace.
Seeing Summer eat, a faint smile curled at the corners of his mouth. Summer took a sip of the soup, and the fishy taste made her nausea even stronger. She used to enjoy this kind of collagen soup for its refreshing and appetite-enhancing qualities.
Now, perhaps due to her pregnancy, she could only manage a sip before she nearly retched. She quickly covered her mouth in fright
Looking up, she saw Fraser's gaze turn cold, his voice thick with mockery,
"What, you get nauseous eating with me now? Summer, you're really something Summer lowered her eyes, without much spirit to retort, "There are many who would want to dine with Mr. Graham. That woman in white is all too happy to serve you, you won't miss me."
Hearing this, Fraser's eyes flickered, his probing gaze intensively scanning Summer.
He lounged on the sofa, his arm casually draped over the side, suddenly chuckling lowly, "What, is Ms. Su bothered by this?"
Suramer pursed her lips, her expression faint, "Why would I be? Mr. Graham and I are strangers; right now, I'm merely representing the Stewart Group to report on the Global Project
Fraser's lips twitched in a light sneer. Of course. How could this woman be jealous! She has no heart.
At that moment, Fraser's office phone suddenly rang. He glanced at it and picked up.
Helen's voice came through, "Fraser, the CEO of the Lastesh Group will be visiting the capital in a few days; our families should arrange a time to meet. Remember to schedule it."
Sitting next to the sofa, Summer instinctively straightened her back upon hearing Helen's voice.
The Lastesh Group, she remembered, was supposed to be a marital alliance with the Graham family.
So they were already talking marriage... With this thought, a fresh wave of nausea surged in Summer's barely calmed chest.
Fraser half-lidded his eyes, glancing at Summer.
She sat there, head bowed, expressionless.
Fraser replied emotionlessly, "Okay"
After Fraser hung up the phone, Summer stood up.
Whoonet Cuts Dies
a pub wye wading to her
the Chotsal Pyox!
parking lo
www
Howing this one of the vice provides pactumest. And
"What a great oppormax. Als Nowu wch dubio you discuss it does thy withe Mi. Civaleam! If he's candied widia plan, he
The other vice presale give
Rich, gh the stews of the latest Posess consened the text step into the unspean and America makris expemiling
right
salmuser stopped, famed her head her gar
Clasps
oup's lipslogs!
With that she bell witwou looking back, leaving the po vice presidents bewildered
by her sidden couturst
such
Why does My Stewart have unha and bewtemper te mnal in business seck investment Why call u brding Topologs boxiles how man world love to be in thei
Chapter 227
Chilled Relations
He replied. "Ms. Stewart probably doesn't want to owe any favors anymore, so she's rejecting it."
As night fell, neon lights buzzed to life, adorning the city and kicking off its nightlife.
Alone at home, Summer sat on the sofa, arms wrapped around herself, gazing at the night scene from her balcony,
+8 Pearls
Her
eyes
moved from the distant city lights to the ultrasound printout that had
clearly been crumpled and then smoothed out again.
She had been shocked to learn of her pregnancy at the hospital and hadn't really looked at the ultrasound until tonight. The report didn't reveal much.
But the small dot on it seemed to be the embryo.
Summer stared at it for a long time, biting her lower lip, until she finally picked up the phone and called Yvette.
Yvette was filming a night scene but took a moment to answer Summer's call.
"Summer, what's up?"
Summer took a deep breath, her voice husky. "Yvette, I've decided... I don't want this baby. Are you free in the next few days to come with me for the procedure?"
Yvette, who was drinking water, almost choked.
She had just agreed to think it over properly. It had only been a couple of days, and Summer had already decided?
Yvette didn't want Summer to regret it one day. She lied instinctively. "I'm shooting an important scene, and the director won't let me leave the set. The earliest I can manage is next week."
Summer pressed her lips together tightly. "Okay, I'll make an appointment."
Yvette hesitated, then asked, “Summer, why did you decide so quickly? Maybe you should think it over a bit more."
Summer sounded bitter, "Yvetie, Fraser and I will each have our own new lives, and this baby would only be a burden"
Summer wasn't foolish. Despite how much Helen had pressured her recently, she had been indecisive about breaking up with Fraser.
She admitted, she had fallen in love with this man. If the child were born, she feared she couldn't control herself, might disrupt his life, confront him, become unreasonable. So, the child couldn't stay.
She didn't want to be demeaned in love, they should be parallel lines, never intersecting again.
Yvette sighed, "Summer, when I get back from the set next week, if you still want to go through with it, I'll come with you."
Summer's eyes welled up. "Thank you, Yvette."
After hanging up the phone, tears fell from her cheeks.
She touched her stomach, murmuring, "Baby, I'm sorry. I hope you don't choose me as a mom next time."
A while later, her phone rang again.
With lule energy, Summer picked it up.
"Hello"
A familiar deep voice came from the other end.
Chilled Relations
"There's a lot of your stuff at Ravenshire Boulevard, come and
get it
+8 Pearls
Summer thought for a moment. "No, it's too late today, and it's not convenient. If it's in your way, just throw it all out."
A mocking laugh seemed to echo from the other end. "I don't keep junk here, if
you want to throw it out, come and do it yourself."
Junk? Summer felt a pang of irritation.
She recalled what she had left at Ravenshire Boulevard.
OA
What she left was mostly high-end clothes Fraser had bought for her, most of which she had worn only a few times.
Custom cosmetics from Belvare that she had used halfway.
Her toiletries, slippers, towels, and other scattered items.
Strictly speaking, none of these things were really hers.
You can have the maid throw them out.
"The maid's on leave.
"So?"
Fraser, standing in the walk-in closet, hand in pocket, surveyed the bedroom marked with Summer's use.
His voice was as casual as ever, "So com
come get them, they're an eyesore:
Summer laughed out of frustration, "I didn't know you had such a thing about cleanliness."
Fraser picked up a purple hair clip Summer had used, glancing at it nonchalantly. She often used it to hold up all her hair while showering, exposing her pale neck.
"Of course, exes should disappear from each other's lives; your stuff here is making it hard for me to forget.
Summer couldn't help but raise her voice in reminder.
"Mr. Graham, you bought those things!"
"Oh." Fraser chuckled dryly. "Pretty expensive, remember to settle up."
"Fraser!" Summer couldn't help but shout his name.
She stood up, biting her lip. "Fine. I'll come clean it up myself, and then we'll settle up!"
Chapter 228
Cold Goodbyes
+8 Pearls
After hanging up. Summer slipped out of her pajamas and into a white tee and jeans, topped with a mid-length brown coal- simple yet chic.
She hailed a cab to Ravenshire Boulevard.
Half an hour later, she exited the taxi and took the elevator up to the 66th floor.
The elevator doors chimed open.
re on.
Summer slowly stepped in; all the chandeliers in the living room were
The vast floor-to-ceiling windows displayed the city's neon lights like scattered stars, forming a swaying reflection on the glass
The living room was empty, and the size of the place made it feel even more silent,
Summer stood at the door, not entering.
After a moment, deep footsteps echoed from inside, one step at a time.
Summer looked up to see a tall man sauntering out from the room. He was still dressed in the handmade Luscaro black shirt and trousers he wore earlier that day at the Graham Group.
Seeing him here, the man seemed less severe but more dangerous. He walked straight to the bar.
He grabbed a bottle of whiskey, uncorked it, and poured a full glass. He downed it in one gulp: the rolling of his throat sounded somewhat sexy, his dark eyes fixed on her at the doorway.
Under his silent gaze, Summer was the first to speak.
"I came to get my things."
Fraser's lips curved in a half-smile, "What, do I need to invite you in?"
Summer was speechless.
"Alright, then, excuse me."
With that, she walked into the apartment.
Everything in the room was exactly as she had left it weeks ago; it seemed nothing had changed
Ravenshire Boulevard had transformed from a lifeless house to a place marked by their shared existence.
Suddenly, Summer remembered she had lived with Fraser in this apartment for two months.
Shaking off the thought, Summer went to the storeroom, grabbed a box,
and started from the living room to the bedroom, throwing in anything she had used, regardless of its value.
Fraser stood there, lifting his eyelids, his gaze sweeping over her slender figure. Her movements were decisive and swift as she packed her things.
He sneered, poured another glass of whiskey, and drank it down. The strong liquor burned his throat.
After half an hour, Summer had filled a box to the brim.
She calmly said. "These are the things I've used. I'm not sure about the prices, you can quote me a figure."
They stood a distance apart, Summer didn't meet his eyes.
Cold Goodbyes
Summer's hands tightened at her sides
+8 Pearls
Fraser's deep eyes casually scanned the contents of the box, his voice rough from the alcohol and as gnity as if he'd crushed stones. "All packed?"
Summer instinctively stepped back two paces, maintaining a safe distance. She nodded, affirming
Fraser spoke emotionlessly. "My assistant will handle the payment with you "Okay"
Without hesitation. Summer picked up the box and headed for the door.
With a loud thud. Summer dropped the entire box, along with its contents, into the trash bin by the door.
Hearing the sound, Fraser's eyes darkened, growing stormy.
The next second, Summer appeared at the doorway again, removing the sapphire bracelet she had always worn.
"I think I should return this bracelet to you."
Summer handed over the bracelet,
Fraser didn't take it..
She placed it on the table
Fraser stared at the bracelet.
The brilliance of the sapphire still sparkled, but lying there on the table, it looked even colder.
He remembered how, even during their last argument. Summer had still worn the bracelet
He hadn't expected that this time she would actually return it, signaling a serious intent to part ways. Even he couldn't help but applaud her for it.
Fraser's jaw clenched as he smirked disdainfully,
"Summer, you've been in and out of relationships so much, you're experienced in breaking up too, huh?"
Summer knew he was mocking her past with Trevor, her experience of love followed by breakup.
She just smiled.
Chapter 229
Hospital Dates and Hate Debates:
"That's right, better than you who have a fiancee and I couldn't shamelessly hold you back."
Even if they no longer loved each other, the sweet, warm days they had shared couldn't be erased in an instant.
They both had their true feelings, masking the most vulnerable parts of their hearts with words to show how carefree they could be.
Fraser narrowed his eyes, his gaze dark and unreadable as he stared at Summer. He knew she had made a deal with him and Helen
He didn't mind. He would have given her anything she asked for, not just for the Stewart Group
What he did mind was her statement that she didn't love him. Fraser had never been jealous of anyone before, but he had to admit, he was damn jealous that Summer still loved Trevor
With this thought, Fraser's expression darkened even more. “Then I should thank you for being so considerate, although what you call making things right seems more about justifying yourself and Trevor
Summer knew that even if she said she had no relation with Trevor and didn't love him, it wouldn't change the outcome. It was better to be nonchalant.
Her throat felt sore, and she bit her lip..
There's nothing else, I'll be going then. From now on, we owe each other nothing. Meanwhile, Pudding had been sleeping in the room.
At that moment, he woke up, smelled a familiar scent, and jumped out of the room, barking at Summer as she prepared to leave.
Seeing Pudding suddenly appear, his bright eyes seemed to ask why she was leaving
Summer, having held back her emotions all night, felt them breaking through. She sniffed, squatted down, and lovingly petted him.
"Pudding, you need to be good, eat well, take your walks, and... behave
Padding sensed the choking sadness in Summer's voice, different from the dual atmosphere, filled with melancholy.
He bit at Summer's jeans, trying to keep her from leaving.
Summer genuinely liked Pudding.
Seeing him like this, and thinking of the baby in her belly, her eyes welled up with tears that she couldn't hold back.
She wiped her reddened eyes, "I might not come to see you anymore. You're getting old; you need to stay healthy."
Fraser felt a twinge of irritation watching them, as if witnessing a parting of life and death.
"Is he gone, or is he dead? Why can't you come to see him?"
Summer looked up with eyes bright with unshed tears, her tone more plaintive than she intended.
"Didn't you say, a good ex should completely disappear from each other's lives? Pudding is your dog, of course, I wou
chance to see lum"
Fraser found it amusing: she didn't remember other things he said quite so clearly. Seeing her tearful eyes, his anger subsided significantly.
His voice was lazy but affectionately indulgent, "If you want to see him, see him. No one's going to stop you."
have a Hospital Dates and Hate Debates:
Fraser's eyes were deep, staring at her, his longing and the memories flooding like the sea.
Summer felt a heat surge in her chest from his intense gaze and quickly looked away.
She came back to her senses and slowly stood up
"Thank you for letting me see Pudding. I'm leaving now.
With that, she didn't dare stay longer, turning swiftly and walking out the door. +B Pearls
Pudding watched Summer's retreating figure, then turned to look at Fraser standing under the dim light, his expression shadowy and unclear. He barked softly.
Fraser's lips twitched slightly, his voice low and slightly helpless, "Go ahead" Waiting for the elevator, Summer saw Pudding come out and paused.
Her eyes were still a bit red, but she managed a smile.
"Pudding, be good, go back inside. I'll come see you next time, okay?"
It was unclear if he understood
Pudding licked Summer's jeans and stayed squatting there..
The elevator arrived, and Summer stepped inside, glancing back at the open door.
The dim light spilled out a little from inside.
Summer tightened her grip and then stepped into the elevator.
Pudding stayed squatting there, watching her until the elevator doors closed.
Inside, Fraser casually walked forward, his long fingers picking up the dazzling sapphire necklace.
It lay on the table, cold as if abandoned. His eyes darkened, his lips curling in self-mockery.
Chapter 230
Public Confrontation.
+8 Pearls
Summer had booked a top private hospital in Havenbrook, scheduling her procedure for the day Yvette would be available from the film set
She wasn't as strong as she had imagined; the thought of entering the cold operating room alone was too much. She hoped to have someone by her side.
So, the decision was made. To distract herself, Summer immersed herself in work every day.
That day coincided with the Havenbrook Retailers' Association meeting
The invitees included businesses operating shopping malls in Havenbrook and were members of the association.
Big box stores, luxury malls, general malls, and international retailers-though competitors, they also shared innovations during these exchanges.
The Stewart Group managed a general mall with fewer luxury outlets, ranking it in the middle class in Havenbrook.
Since taking over management of the Stewart Group, Summer had wanted to transition the business, but that required funds. and professional talent.
The first step of the successful Global Project would ideally lead to rapid expansion into international markets.
But Summer, not wanting to rely on further investments from the Graham Group, had put those plans on hold.
For now, she was focusing on transitioning within the domestic market. Seated among the audience, Summer listened ast entrepreneurs shared their
experiences when suddenly a loud voice erupted.
"Summer, I am the real boss of the Stewart Group!
oup! What right do you have to represent me at this meeting?"
It was Harvey's voice. Summer turned to see Harvey, who had somehow sneaked
in
He stood there, unfurling a red banner. "Summer of Stewart Group obtained management rights through illegal means."
The declaration halted the ongoing presentation, and all eyes turned to Summer and Harvey.
The recent upheavals at Stewart Group were known among industry peers, though details were vague.
Since being ousted from Stewart Group, Harvey and Jasper's lives had plummeted, fueling their resentment towards Summer.
Now at rock bottom, Harvey had nothing to lose.
He had been scheming how to ruin Summer's management of Stewart Group step by step.
Such industry meetings provided the perfect opportunity
Getting Stewart Group expelled from the association would marginalize its malls from mainstream status, leading to their decline.
This scorched earth tactic would damage everyone involved, but Harvey was beyond caring, he wanted immediate revenge.
Summer frowned and immediately sent her assistant Quinn to call security.
Quinn dashed off as instructed.
Summer, facing Harvey with a cold voice, declared, "I am the largest shareholder of Stewart Group, and I manage it. It's not your place to create a scene here."
Harvey jumped onto a table, his eyes visibly bloodshot.
"You obtained those shares through illegal means! Today, I will let everyone know how devious and manipulative you are,
Puble Confrontation
Doing so would only fuel baseless gossips and slander, reinforcing the idea that she had obtained her position unlawfully Harvey likely anticipated her silence and laughed mockingly
"Summer, you're too scarest to say it, arent you? A person of dubious legitimas y like you has no place managing Stewart Group or attending this association meeting"
The crowd murmured among themselves
"Stewart Group's chaos really does lower our assosiation's standards
"Exactly, if she can't manage her own family's issues regardless of how she got her shares, she really isut capable of handling management"
Someone in the crowd suggested. Sir, maybe we should just kick Stewart Group out. Our association sloesitt need them"
Harvey, hearing this, smirked with malevolent satisfaction.
Summer was calculating how to deal witly Harvey without escalating the situation. Arguing with Harvey here, whether she won or not, would tarnish her reputation Just then, a calm, deep voice filled the room.
"Every corporation faces intertial competition, but to be this sore a loser, Mr. Harvey, it seems your methods are the ones truly lacking legitimacy"
Harvey's brow furrowed deeply as he glared at the man who had spoken up.