Ch. 231..240

Chapter 231

Under the Table

"Who are you to question me? This is clearly a case of Summer unlawfully seizing shares, and I'm merely making it public

Someone nearby chimed in.

Elus is the son of Aldridge Group, the new president

at of our association

It's well known that Havenbrook's lifeline is dominated by the Graham family, the Larson Group, Aldridge Group, and the Hathaway family.

At that moment, a man as refined as jade, dressed in a light gray suit with his tie perfectly straight, stepped forward. His voice was clear, "Where is security?

Soon, several guards rushed out and apprehended Harvey directly

Harvey struggled vehemently, "Let go of me! Is this association really so low, knowing Summer climbed her way up through such underhanded methods and not even auditing her?"

Lucas, his gentle features briefly flickering with coldness, stated, "I think it's not your place to speak right now, I'm the president"

As Harvey was escorted out, there was a murmur of disapproval among the crowd, all waiting to see how Lucas would handle the Stewart Group issue.

Lucas:

picked up the microphone handed to him by the host, his soothing gaze briefly meeting Summer's

When Summer met his reassuring look. Lucas shifted his gaze back to the crowd.

"This association celebrates its 50th anniversary, founded on the principles of friendly exchange and mutual growili. Over the years, it has become a benchmark in the industry. It's precisely because of this inclusive and flourishing approach that we should not prematurely meddle in what is essentially an internal matter for Stewart Group"

With Lucas having spoken, the crowdd eased off, and the drama slowly subsided.

Quinn finally rushed back, bowing her head, she whispered, "I'm sorry, Ms. Stewart, I didn't call security in time."

Summer gave her a meaningful look. She'd known about Quinn's minor schemes before, but had forgiven her, considering she'd become her assistant right after graduation.

But this time, it crossed a line.

Summer's expression darkened slightly, "From today, you don't neeil to follow me anymore."

Quinn was incredulous!

“Ms. Stewart, just because I was five minutes late calling security, you're firing me?

Summer scoffed, "The things you've done behind my back, do I even need to spell it out? When Margaret took that proposal from my office to the Graham Group to solicit investments, didn't you know and keep it hidden?"

Quinn hadn't expected Summer to remember such a long-ago incident. She'd just graduated then and didn't want to get involved in the Stewart family's internal struggles, which is why she hadn't spoken up.

Summer was so devious, having seemingly let it go at the time only to bring it up now. Such a fake leader!

She scoffed at the idea of staying by her side. With that realization, Quinn turned and left angrily.

Sumner didn't bother with her, her gaze following Lucas, now surrounded by a group of businessmen.

After a while, when he was alone, Summer approached him.

Lucas, thank you for just now."

Under the Table

Summer was curious, "Why did you help me just now?"

+8 Pearls

Lucas smiled, his demeanor as gentle as jade and refreshing as a spring breeze, "Ms. Stewart, don't you remember me?"

Summer paused, taking another look at the man.

He was tall and upright, his features somewhat lean, his eyes deep beneath his glasses, yet approachable, his skin like jade.

He was the quintessential gentle and humble gentleman, though not as strikingly handsome as Fraser.

But if Summer had ever met this kind of man, she wouldn't have forgotten him

Lucas spoke softly, "Three years ago, at Lumina Restaurant, the night you booked the entire place."

That jogged Summer's memory.

It had been Trevor's birthday, and she had booked a restaurant for a candlelit dinner to celebrate.

But Trevor had stood her up again.

Summer had waited until the restaurant was about to close

The waiter told her they were closing, and Summer, looking at the cold dishes

and untouched cake, was reluctant to leave.

She asked the waiter for another hour, until midnight. The waiter, sticking to the restaurant rules, did not accommodate her.

At that time, a man passing by heard Summer's request.

He stood there and instructed the waiter, "Extend the closing time until this lady

is finished."

 

Chapter 232

Dining with the Past

I never expected it to be him. Summer suddenly realized, "So it was you."

Lucas smiled, "How are things with your boyfriend now?"

Summer shook her head, simply stating. Tm single now."

+8 Pearls

Lucas smile deepened slightly. He remembered that day; it was when his first

love, Wendy, had chosen her ballet dreams over him, leaving him.

He was feeling down and went to a restaurant to drink, a place he had bought for Wendy because she loved a particular dish

there.

He had heard from the staff about a girl who had booked the entire restaurant for her boyfriend's birthday. It was rare to see such devotion

Curious, he had glanced over. The table was laden with food, but the woman's boyfriend never showed up; her silhouette was delicate and forlorn.

Perhaps it was a shared sense of heartbreak that made the memory stick.

"I didn't expect you to end up as the boss of Stewart Group. Keep it up"

His encouragement sounded like something a teacher would say.

Summer couldn't help but smile. Thank you."

Lucas, watching her simple yet radiant smile, couldn't resist saying. "You have a beautiful smile."

His comment made Summer a bit embarrassed.

Lucas tactfully changed the subject.

"Stewart Group's department store is facing a need for innovation and reform. I know some people who specialize in that area: I could introduce you sometime."

Summer knew that Lucas, as the president of the association, had access to many resources, which was why he was so well- supported by his peers.

1

"You've already helped me enough; how could I impose further?"

Lucas looked at Summer gently, "If it's not too much trouble, could

Two days later.

could Ms. Stewart perhaps treat me to a meal?"

At the top-tier Havenbrook Clear Light Pavilion, by a table near the antique-style windows,

Lucas brought an expert along for a meal with Summer.

The expert, Ryan, was over fifty and had more than twenty years of experience in department store development. Summer listened intently to his advice on retail innovation.

Mid-conversation, Ryan's phone rang: he had to leave abruptly, which Summer regretted as she wanted to hear more of his

advice.

Lucas noticed Summer's disappointment.

"Mr. Ryan, since you have to leave unexpectedly today, to make it up, why don't you visit Stewart Group sometime and share your lifetime of experience with the next generation?"

Ryan was a well-known figure in the industry, often courted by various retail groups with attractive offers, which he rarely accepted

Dining with the Past

Summer was delighted and quickly thanked him.

After Ryan left, Summer knew that Ryan had come out because of Lucas influence

She was quite grateful for Lucas' repeated help and raised her cup of tea.

- Pears

"Mr. Lucas, thank you for the introduction today"

Lucas lips curled into a gentle smile, "Ms. Stewart, do you know what you've said to me the most

Summer was puzzled.

"It's thank you."

Summer was taken aback.

Lucas spoke meaningfully, "If you're going to thank me, just consider me a friend."

"Mr. Lucas, you mean..."

"Don't call me Mr. Lucas; it's too formal. Call me Lucas, and III call you Summer On her way back

k from the restroom.

Summer passed a luxurious private room, its grand doors slightly ajar due to a hostess clad in an elegant cocktail dress delivering dishes.

Out of the corner of her eye, Summer saw people inside and paused.

The room was lavish, centered around a large antique wooden table..

Inside sat Helen and Fraser, along with several imposing men and women from abroad.

Unnoticed, Summer was bumped by a waiter coming out, spilling a bit of food on her clothes..

The waiter was startled and quickly apologized

"Miss, I'm so sorry, it wasn't intentional."

Summer, not wanting to draw attention, waved it off, "It's fine."

Fraser, lounging in his chair with his long fingers casually resting a tea cup on the table, heard a familiar female voice and lifted his eyelids, glancing toward the door.

As Fraser turned his head,

Ignoring the hostess's offer to clean her clothes, Summer quickly walked away.

Fraser only saw a woman in a white coat, her slender silhouette and loosely curled hair flowing as she briskly moved past, like a whisper.

Chapter 233

A Clash of Titans.

His deep eyes flickered, his obscure gaze lingered on the door for a few seconds

but didn't retract.

Helen also followed Fraser's gaze to the outside but saw nothing.

"What's wrong?"

Upon hearing her, Fraser turned back, his tone indifferent, "It's nothing."

+8 Pearls

Today's dinner was a formal meeting between the CEO of the Graham Group and the Lastesh Group, Ethan and his wife, Lucy.

Ethan was mixed-race, half Cranfordian.

His family had roots and grew powerful in Oblistan, becoming one of the foremost capital tycoons abroad, but their influence had always been overseas, and they had been looking for ways to penetrate the domestic market.

This had led to the idea of an alliance through marriage with the Graham family twenty years ago.

"Madam Graham, Fraser has managed the Graham Group very well; you're very fortunate."

With Maximus bedridden, Helen represented the elder generation.

Helen, comforted by this, also smiled gently.

"Not to boast, but my grandson has a brilliant business mind. In just a few years, he's multiplied the Graham Group's assets several times over from his grandfather's time; no one in Havenbrook can catch up."

Ethan and Lucy exchanged a smile.

Helen then asked, "Why didn't Anne come? I last saw her ten years ago, such a darling little princess"

At the mention of her daughter, Lucy's face was full of indulgence.

"That child just graduated and has been traveling the world. It's about time she had a wise husband to manage her."

After saying this, Lucy gave Fraser a meaningful glance, listening to their reminiscing, Fraser's expression was faint.

He took a sip from his teacup and then set it down on the table with a firm, muted thud.

Fraser's voice, rarely serious, declared, "Sir, madam, this arranged marriage between the Graham Group and the Lastesh Group cannot stand."

At his words, the previously cheerful atmosphere slowly tensed, and everyone's expressions changed.

Ethan was the first to recover, "Fraser, what do you mean by that?"

Helen quickly interjected, "Fraser, what are you talking about? Today is our formal meeting; don't ruin it."

Fraser's handsome-face remained emotionless, his words clear, "It means the marriage arrangement is off."

At this, Ethan frowned, slamming his hand on the table.

"This arranged marriage was settled over twenty years ago; how can you just call

it off? Do you think this is a joke?"

As Ethan slammed the table, several burly bodyguards with guns rushed in from hiding

Seeing this, Helen clutched her chest, her face turning pale with fright

Sitting in his chair, Fraser remained composed, not even twitching an eyebrow, his lips slowly parting as he looked at Ethan,

A Clash of Titans

He looked at Helen, his tone still displeased.

+8 Pearls

"Madam Graham, my daughter is of noble birth, many from the Oblistan royalty wish to marry her. If you don't value her. we at the Lastesh Group won't beg."

Helen, frantic, stood up. "Ethan, no, it's not like that."

Lucy, haughtily looping her arm through Ethan's, declared, "It seems we won't be eating this meal after all, dear, let's go

They soon left

Helen, overwhelmed and in pain, clutched at her chest.

The butler came in to support her, preventing her from collapsing

"Fraser! Do you realize the loss the Graham family just faced: You just give away a Galaxo Group asset like that! Your grandfather would be furious if he knew. And your uncle, why disrupt everything when the marriage could have settled all

Issues?

Fraser stood up nonchalantly, "Grandma, I've said before, no marriage alliance: you just wouldn't listen."

A flicker of malice flashed in Helen's eyes as she shouted, "Is it because of that woman Summer? Why can't you see? She's just using you!"

Fraser didn't respond; he simply turned and walked out..

Summer emerged from the restroom, washing her hands, overhearing the restroom attendants whispering.

"Do you know who's sitting in the most luxurious private room?”

"Who

"It's Mr. Graham from Havenbrook; those formidable foreigners are actually his in- laws!"

 

Chapter 234

Unforeseen Encounters

"No way, Mr. Graham is engaged?"

+8 Pearls

"High-society families always match up with suitable partners, what's so surprising about that? 1 just checked online, Mr. Graham's in-laws are actually the Oblistan nobility, the Lastesh Group!"

"Wow, their wedding is going to be a major event, a real-life prince and princess story! I'm so jealous!"

"First, you'd need to be reborn into that kind of life! You think just anyone can marry Mr. Graham?"

pto

Summer washed her hands, waiting for the gossip to fade before she turned off the water; her fingers were red from scrubbing too hard.

Head bowed, her pale face unreadable, she just stared at the floor and walked out.

She missed a step on the ground and stumbled.

Summer leaned forward, about to fall.

In the next second, a strong hand grasped her slender waist, and suddenly, Summer was up against a firm body

The familiar scent of pine hit her.

Turning her head, she saw that impeccably handsome face.

Fraser's casual voice echoed in the hallway, "What were you thinking about, not watching where you're going?"

Looking into Fraser's deep eyes, Summer felt a slight ache in her chest-not severe, just like an invisible needle pricking deeper.

After a moment, she said, "Thank you."

Realizing she was still in his arms, Summer immediately pushed him away.

Fraser saw her reaction, his eyes lazily flickered, but he said nothing.

He

He pulled out a cigarette from his pocket, tapped the end of the pack with his index finger, drew one out, and placed it between his lips, then pulled out a lighter.

The purple-blue flame sparked, lighting the cigarette. The flickering light cast an unreal glow on his face.

Fraser took a leisurely drag.

Summer walked on, but couldn't help looking back at the man standing there smoking, his tall and lean silhouette as perfect. as a sculpture.

She couldn't resist and said, "I heard you're getting married. Congratulations.

Fraser's eyes narrowed slightly, his dark gaze fixed on her a few steps away, his tone mocking, "Do you care?"

Summer beard her own voice, nearly numb, "Does it matter if I care?"

Fraser's dark eyes lingered on her, his gaze as if trying to see through her, word by word, "If you say you care, I'll call it off"

Summer's heart skipped a beat unexpectedly.

She looked at Fraser, her lips twitching slightly, "Mr. Graham, you seem to have

forgotten what our relationship is, still in the mood to joke"

Fraser's dark eyes stayed on the woman a few steps away.

Her demure raze lone and curled evelashes hid her emotions only her tightly pressed lins visible

Unforeseen Encounters

"mmer, do you want to come back to my side?"

It slantro ? matter ({'vou don't love me, just being near me is mough Frasers voice

was deep and seductive, huskily bewach

blinked slowly, opened her mouth slightly

At that moment, the sound of a

talking to a server nearby carried over.

Helis coulé vo Check the restroom

whire sunt

saw Lucas and supped back to reality

much be a master at games but I'm not playing this one anymore

ner turned and walked toward him

Fraser frowned grabbing her slender wrist to stop her

Who's bell

Laces heeming

the hallway, looked over

- quickly shook of Fraser none of your business

İ

to a lock back bon could fed o

ring sure yo

jmcenie gure de her back, making her uneary and eager to leave.

danced in

Locas nodded his gur thoughtful is he dabei Frisertanding not far away.

nuder

ing the dominance of a leger his presence overwhelming The two men's eyes met

in

Send Gifts

od returned to the table with, i

"Too look a bin palle"

ess I was just too focused on absorbing 36 Ryan' knowledge earlier, used up all

my

 

Chapter 235

Last Calls Before the Quiet

"Let's head back then; you should get some rest too.

Summer looked at the table full of dishes, "You haven't eate

Lucas joked, "Then Ms. Stewart owes me another meal

raten yet.

+8 Pearls

Meanwhile, at the Graham Mansion, Helen had taken a calming pill, which slowly restored her composure after a tumultuous night.

Still, she was seething with anger. She picked up a teacup and smashed it onto the floor, startling the living room's servants, who turned pale and dared not provoke Helen further.

Only Karena, the butler who had served the Graham family for over thirty years, tried to soothe her.

"Madam Graham, don't be angry. Mr. Graham was just momentarily misled; he'll eventually see the wisdom of your ways."

Helen clenched her teeth. "No, as long as that wretch Summer is around, Fraser will remain deluded. This will only harm him

in the end

"What would you like to do, Madam Graham?"

A vicious light gleamed in Helen's eyes, "Make her disappear from Havenbrook.

Find someone to check what she's up to these days."

Karena nodded, "Very well, Madam Graham Rest assured, I'll handle it."

Helen's expression darkened as she muttered to herself, "Only with Summer gone will Fraser return to his rightful place

Unbeknownst to them, the next week quickly arrived, and Summer's phone reminded her of her surgery scheduled for tomorrow, coincidentally just as Yvette was landing today.

Summer went to the airport to pick her up. Airports were places of both partings and reunions, filled with either joy or

sorrow.

Summer arrived early and waited outside the arrival gate barrier.

She was accidentally bumped by a woman.

"Sorry about that.”

"It's okay." Summer moved aside to make roont.

The two waited for over ten minutes, during which the woman struck up a conversation..

"My daughter has been with her grandparents back in their hometown. She's just coming back today, and it's the first time I've been away from her for this long."

Summer smiled politely in response.

"Are

r you

married?" the woman asked,

Summer shook her head.

The woman sighed, "It's better not to be. Once you're married and have kids, you lose your freedom"

Summer heard her talk about losing freedom, but in the woman's eyes, there was a glow of love when she mentioned her daughter.

"Ah, there's my daughter now."

Summer turned to look.

Hearing the voice, the little girl wriggled free from her grandparents and ran over, bouncing joyfully.

The woman stepped forward, hugging her tightly and kissing her, "I missed you so much."

Watching this scene, Summer's eyes flickered and she instinctively looked away. Soon, a crowd poured out from the gates, with many rushing forward to greet their loved ones.

Summer was jostled by the crowd and instinctively shielded her stomach, moving away from the throng towards an open

space.

She texted Yvette, saying she'd wait outside.

Moments later, someone tapped Summer on the shoulder.

"Summer, what are you thinking about?"

Yvette, sporting dramatic sunglasses and clad in a black leather jacket and skirt with thigh-high boots, had a low-key yet bold style, with an assistant trailing behind her with her luggage.

Yvette turned to her assistant.

"Take my luggage home, I'm staying at Summer's tonight."

"Let's go, the car is parked outside, Summer said.

They drove smoothly along Havenbrook's main roads,

Summer drove with focused attention.

Yvette, sitting in the passenger seat, looked over, "Did you set the time?"

"Yes"

As the light turned red. Summer braked and reached back to hand Yvette a bottle of water.

Yvette took a sip. "Where is it?"

1

"At a private hospital in Havenbrook"

Yvette exaggerated, "That's a nice hospital. I know some celebrities who've had surgery there."

Summer smiled, "I heard the doctors are excellent, so it should be relatively painless."

Watching Summer joke like this,

Yvette's smile slowly faded, "Summer,

r.you

still back out if you regret it"

As the light turned green, Summer pressed the accelerator and the car moved forward.

After a while, Summer heard her own voice, "No regrets."

She wasn't sure if she was reassuring herself or telling Yvette.

Summer's hands, gripping the steering wheel, were so tight that even she didn't

realize her knuckles were turning white.

 

Chapter 236

In Brookhaven Estates, Summer sat at her vanity after taking a shower, applying skincare products. Her phone was casually placed on the tabletop.

Yvette hesitated for a long time, holding her pajamas, occasionally glancing at the phone.

"Summer, can I borrow your phone to make a call? My phone is out of battery

Without much thought, Summer entered the password and handed it over. Yvette quickly took the phone, pretending to make a call while stepping into the bathroom,

Once inside and out of Summer's sight, she swiftly scrolled through the contacts until she found Fraser's number and memorized it. Then, she walked back out and returned the phone.

Summer looked up at her. "That was quick.

I just had to give my manager some instructions. I'm going to take a shower now," Yvette replied stiffly, forcing a smile.

Inside the bathroom. Yvette sat on the toilet lid, entered the number, and stared at it for a long time.

She was not sure if she should tell Fraser about Summer's pregnancy and her decision to have an abortion.

If Fraser was merely toying with Summer, he might mock her or even deny any responsibility, Men were like that.

But what if he was serious about her?

For the slim possibility that Fraser might truly care, Yvette decided to take the chance.

After all, the abortion was scheduled for tomorrow. She would only make the call once.

Having made up her mind. Yvette pressed the dial button. The cold, mechanical ringing made her heart race.

After a while, the call went unanswered.

She gritted her teeth and rediale.

This time, she heard, "The number you have dialed is currently switched off."

Yvette cursed, "Damn it! Forget it! Maybe even fate agrees that Summer should get rid of this baby."

She thought there were still a last shred of hope! Now, Summer deserved a new life of her own!

Neon lights flickered at the bar, music blasted, and the dance floor was filled with people locked in close embraces.

Fraser sat lazily in the darkest corner of the lounge. His body leaned back slightly, long fingers holding a glass of strong liquor, resting on the armrest. His face remained expressionless as he watched the energetic scene before him.

The dim lighting deepened the sharp angles of his face, making his entire presence exude an unapproachable coldness.

No one dared to approach him.

Except for his close friend, Xavier, who sat beside hirn, making idle conversation.

"What's with you? I heard you called off your engagement, but you still seem in a bad mood."

Fraser took a sip of his drink and smirked faintly. "Why don't you try canceling yours and see how you feel?"

Xavier raised an eyebrow. "No thanks. My family already had one big fight over my hospital. If I stir up trouble again, who knows what my parents would do to me?"

He took a meaningful glance at Fraser. "Besides, I don't have someone in my heart. Whoever I marry, it doesn't matter, as Innot as she doesn't interfere with my life"

learned the truth. That year, Fraser's father had died in a plane crash, and shortly after, his mother had been kidnapped and taken away,

He had suffered from severe depression. Despite being the same age as Xavier, Fraser had always been cold and withdrawn, his demeanor filled with a sense of hostility.

Xavier's father had warned him that Fraser was the heir of the Graham family, and he needed to be polite and build a good relationship with him.

But Xavier had refused to be obedient. Instead, he frequently provoked Fraser. Unfortunately, Fraser never reacted. He would just stare at him with cold, emotionless eyes, as if he was silently calling him an idiot.

Feeling annoyed, Xavier eventually stopped bothering with him.

But after a while, when he went to find Fraser again, he noticed something different.

There was now a little girl by his side. Though Fraser remained distant and cold, he had started to show emotions. He even smiled sometimes.

So my attempts to bring him warmth failed, but a little girl could do it just fine? Hearing Xavier bring it up now, Fraser's eyes darkened.

Maybe it was the alcohol, or maybe it was something else, but his mind drifted back to the first time he met Summer.

Years ago, at the hospital, he had seen a little girl being scolded harshly by a nurse in uniform, "Why don't you just go die!

The girl was clearly distressed, yet she held back her tears, refusing to cry..

Fraser usually had no sympathy to spare.

 

Chapter 237

A Summer That Stayed

The second time he saw her was when she barged into his secret hideout at the hospital rooftops

He coldly told her to get lost and not to disturb him. Her already red eyes grew even redder, and tears spulled down her cheeks.

I'm sorry. My mom scolded me, and I just wanted to hide here and cry for a bit. Then, she asked, her voice full of grievance, "Why does nobody like me?"

After saying that, she wiped her tears and ran off

Fraser still didn't feel much. He only found her constantly teary eyes annoying to look at.

A few days later, he ran into the girl again. She was crouched in a corner, petting a stray dog, which was later named Pudding.

When she saw him appear, she hesitated for a long time before finally gathering the courage to approach him. "Hey, do you have any food? I want to feed the puppy"

Fraser stared at her with an unreadable expression, his gaze then shifting to the small, filthy, skin-and-bones puppy.

Initially, he intended to walk away, but for some reason, he reached into his pocket and pulled out two sausages.

The girl's eyes lit up. "Thank you"

She fed one to the puppy. Then, her own stomach growled. The little girl pursed her lips before quietly eating the remaining sausage herself.

Fraser asked, expressionless, "Are you very poor

At his words, her face flushed bright red. "I'll pay you back for the sausage!

Whether from embarrassment or because he had hit a nerve, she grabbed the puppy and ran off

The fourth time, she sought him out. She was still wearing the same faded, washed-out jeans. She hesitantly stretched out her small hand, revealing the same brand of sausage he had given her. The sausages you gave me were too expensive. I worked in the cafeteria for a few days to earn enough money to buy this and return it to you."

Fraser glanced at her red, chapped hands. Without hesitation, he took the sausage from her hand and tossed it into the trash.

She clearly had not expected this. Her eyes widened in shock, then filled with anger and frustration.

She immediately ran to the trash can and picked up the sausage. Claring at him, she questioned him, "How can you do that? Do you know how many people in this world don't even have enough to eat? I didn't mean to eat your sausage that day! My mom ignored me for almost a week, and I was too hungry i

y to resist!"

At the same time, the scrawny stray dog leapt out from behind her. With its thin little paws, it furiously scratched at Fraser, as if protesting on her behalf.

Fraser could not explain the restlessness stirring inside him. Is had been a long time since he had felt any emotions at all. He simply tossed out a cold, "So dumb. Then, he left.

A week later, Fraser had just endured another pointless therapy session with so- called top psychological experts.

It was exhausting

These old fouls always said the same things.

He ditched his bodyguards to go for a walk, only to run into her again.

A nurse was vici

viciously kicking i

the dog on the ground. "You think you're some rich young lady? Look at your situation! You have the nerve to secretly keep a dog

A Summer That Stayed

find someone to take care of it. I'll give it away. Please don't be mad."

-B Pearls

"Then keep starving for another week! Let's see if I'll even pay you any attention! The women said. After venting her anger. the woman finally left.

Fraser watched as the girl wiped her tears and gently stroked the dog. Tm sorry, little one. I don't think I can take care of you

anymore.

"Hey," Fraser voiced.

She turned her head at his voice. But perhaps remembering how he had thrown away the sausage last time, she ignored him.

He asked. "What's your name?"

She still did not answer.

Hah. So proud.

Fraser drawled, "Sausage."

The little girl frowned and finally snapped, "What? My name's not Sausage! I'm Summer"

"Summer?"

Yes, Summer Leonard."

Fraser's face remained expressionless, his voice indifferent. I'll take care of the dog

Upon hearing this, Summer's dark, crystal-clear eyes sparkled like glass, shimmering with excitement. She smiled brightly.

Fraser had seen her so many times, but this was the first time he had seen her smile.

Her clothes were simple, ordinary. But that day, the summer sun shone brilliantly.

And her face, warm and fair, with gentle eyes, just like a summer breeze, quietly rippling through the deepest part of his

heart.

 

Chapter 238

A Life About to Disappear

For the next month, Summer came looking for him every day. Though, she was actually there to see the dog.

+8 Pearls

Slowly, Fraser started to anticipate her visits, even making sure there were plenty of delicious treats prepared beforehand.

Her favorite? The little pudding

Every time she arrived, Fraser remained as expressionless as ever. He would lounge in his chair, reclining slightly, pretending to rest his eyes. All the while, the lively chatter of a girl and a dog filled the air around him

But then, one day, she stopped coming.

In the first week of her disappearance, Fraser sent someone to investigate. They found out that the nurse had resigned.

He searched for her after that, but no matter how many people he sent, there was no trace of her.

Until one fateful night at a banquet. That was when he finally learned her surname was not 'Leonard.

She had been taken back by the Stewart family. And now, she was called Summer Stewart.

Fraser often wondered, what if he had found her before Trevor did, would things turn out differently!

Across the room, Xavier waved a hand in front of Fraser's face.

"What's with you? Did 1 hit the nail on the head? I knew it! Our high and mighty Fraser Graham, who has a "cleanliness' obsession when it comes to women, and Summer was the only one who gets under your skin?"

Fraser lifted his gaze, casting him an icy glance. He did not bother answering such a pointless question. "Get lost."

Xavier shrugged.

Chasing a woman was the simplest thing in the world. So why did it have to be so complicated for this guy? If it were me? Money Luxury gifs Sweet talk. And if all else fails, just use that devastatingly handsome face to charm her senseless. Would Summer even stand a chance to

At the same time, Fraser's phone rang. He glanced at the screen. It was from an unknown number. His face darkened as he swiped to decline the call.

"Not picking up?" Xavier asked.

Fraser let out a cold scoff. "This is what happens when you call off an engagement. The old lady tries every trick in the book to harass me."

396677

He turned off his phone and tossed it onto the table, then downed the rest of his drink in one go.

The next day in Havenbrook Archangel Private Hospital, Yvette accompanied Summer into the office of an experienced gynecologist, Dr. Lois.

Dr. Lois glanced at the medical report and, as per protocol, asked in a detached tone, "Are you sure you want to terminate the pregnancy?"

Summer sat stiffly in the chair. Yvette held her hand. The cold, clinical voice made the air in the room even more suffocating. Yvette could feel the slight tremble in Summer's fingers. She tightened her grip.

Summer gave a barely perceptible nod.

"And the father?" Dr. Lois asked.

She looked scared Nervous

But then again teren't they all the same?

Dr. Lois had seen too

iny women sitting in that chair to feel any real sympathy

"Its standard procedure, she continued. The father needs to sign off on the operation."

Tm single

Dr. Lois gaze flickered with a trace of pity. "Any family members?"

Yvette quickly spoke up. Tm her friend. I can sign

"Normally, it should be a parent or a close relative Dr. Lois answered.

Yvettes patience snapped. Normally Since when is getting an abortion ever a normal situation? It's a minor procedure. As long as someone signs isnt that enough

Dr. Lois blinked momentarily stunned by the sudden outburst

In fact, for adult patients, the hospital did not require a guardians signature. But this was a high-end private hospital. She had only followed protocol to ensure the doctors were protected.

Still, seeing the growing irritation in Yvette's eyes, she decided not to press the issue further.

She printed out a form and handed it over. "Fine. Go pay the fee first. Once that's done, we'll run a quick pre-op check. If everything looks good, the procedure will be scheduled in about an hour"

Yvette took the form, then turned to Summer Summer, don't be scared. I'll be right outside the whole time. I heard it's done under general anesthesia. By the time you wake up, it'll be over"

Summer nodded. She was not afraid of the pain. The thought that, soon, the tiny life inside her would simply disappear. suffocated her.

On the other side of the hospital. Xavier, now dressed in a white lab coat, strode in with a group of hospital staff surrounding

hirn.

This hospital was one of the many under his family's medical group.

 

Chapter 239

The Final Chance

As he listened to the vice dean and other hospital staff report on hospital matters. Xavier's gaze unintentionally caught at familiar figure out of the corner of his eye. Someone noticed his distraction and asked. "Dean, is something wrong?"

Xavier frowned. "Is that the gynecology department?"

"Yes, that area is mainly for pregnancy diagnosis and related consultations."

His eyes narrowed slightly. If he was not mistaken, the woman he had just glimpsed looked a lot like Summer. But why would she be here?

"Get that doctor over," he ordered.

It did not take long for Dr. Lois to step out of the consultation room

Upon seeing the hospital director himself, she immediately greeted him with utmost respect.

Xavier wasted no time. "What was that woman here for?"

Dr. Lois knew exactly which patient he was referring to and quickly reported, "She came in for an abortion.

Xavier was momentarily stunned. "Was she alone? Where's the father?"

Dr. Lois hesitated for a moment before responding truthfully, "She said she's unmarried and didn't provide any details. I assume it was an unplanned pregnancy. Her friend signed the consent form for the procedure."

Xavier fell silent, frowning in thought.

Should I tell Fraser? If the child was Fraser's, he has the right to know

He could not just let Summer decide this all on her own.

But if the baby wasn't Fraser's

Knowing his friend's explosive temper, not only would Summer suffer, but this very hospital might end up in ruins.

Xavier sighed, rubbing his temples. "Arrange for the best doctor in the hospital to handle her case. Also, push her surgery to the very last slot of the day."

After paying the fees, Yvette accompanied Summer through a series of blood tests and pre-op checks. Then, they sat outside the operating room, waiting.

From morning until noon, they watched as one surgical bed after another was wheeled in and out.

Yvette pursed her lips. "What's going on? That old woman said it'd take at most an hour. We've been waiting all morning, and they still haven't called us in."

Summer sat quietly beside her, hands wrapped around a cup of warm water, lost in thought.

It felt like one of the most important exams of her life. She had prepared all the answers, steeled herself for what was to come, and was ready to walk into the examination hall and get it over with in one go. But the longer she waited, the more her resolve wavered.

Fear. Uncase. Guilt. All of it mounting to an unbearable peak.

She did not know if it was just her imagination, but she thought she felt a faint flutter in her belly

The doctor had said she would not feel anything until three months in And yet.

sande

-B Pearls

Summer grip on the cup thened slightly city, Yene I can wait?

un ber bold on this last bit of time with the baby

The watched on until spm Yeme was faming

Luckily, she had booked a private room in advance Obenne utting in the hallway

all day would have driven her crazy And think this hospital claimed to be see of

the best prate facies in Haverbrook She would rather trust a random

Just then, a nurse kocked on the door 3 Stewart it's time for your procedure. Please prepare yourself"

Summer looked up, a dazed expression in her eyes

Yvette'squered her hand "Don't be scared.

meone cattle out. Half an hour and it all be over"

Meanwhile, inside the dear's office on the hospital's top Boor. Xavier leaned back

in his chaar legs crossed, his expression unreadable as he stared out the glass window Aphone spun idly in his palm.

A knock sounded at the door. His assistant walked in "Dean M. Stewart surgery is scheduled to begin in ten minutes"

Xavier's hand froze. His eyes darkened

To hell with it. Worst-case scenarist He'd just have to open another hospital

He unlocked his phone, found Fraser's number, and dialed

Inside the operating room, Summer lay on the sterile white bed, staring up at the cold blinding surgical light overhead.

The air was crisp with the scent of disinfectant chilling her to the bone

Two doctors stood beside her, pulling on latex gloves. They exchanged a glance before speaking "Ms. Stewart, are you absolutely certain you want to go through with this Once we administer the anesthesis there's no turning back. Although abortion procedures are common, there are risks. In mild cases, it can lead to uterine infections and fallopian tube inflammation. In severe cases, it may result in infertility. You need to think this through carefully

 

Chapter 240

A Second Too Late

Summer frowned. "Are doctors always this naggy?"

The doctors were speechless. They did not want to nag either, but they had received instructions.

Seeing that the woman lying on the bed showed no reaction, they could only shrug helplessly.

Hete tried. Dean

Inside the bedroom at Ravenshire Boulevard, Fraser lay sprawled on the bed, a silk blanket lazily draped over his waist, exposing the firm, defined muscles of his back. His bare upper body radiated raw masculinity.

He had drunk too much last night. His head throbbed.

His phone rang. Once, twice, thrice. Annoyed, he finally stretched out a long arm, grabbed the phone from the bedside table, and lazily put it to his ear.

On the other end, Xavier's voice sounded urgent. "Fraser, where are you?"

Fraser's voice was deep and husky, still laced with sleep. "What is it?"

He turned over, resting a muscular arm OVET his forehead, eyes still shut.

The bedroom was pitch dark. He lay there, enveloped in the shadows, exuding an air of restraint and self-control.

"I saw Summer at the hospital"

Upon hearing those words, Fraser's eyes snapped open, sharp and piercing in an instant.

"Speak clearly"

Xavier swallowed. "She, she's here for an abortion.

A storm raged in Fraser's pitch-black eyes. His pupils shrank, his voice ice-cold. "When?"

Xavier explained, "She just went into the operating room. I had the doctors delay it, but I don't know if we can stop it in time." Then, unable to hold back his curiosity, he hesitantly asked, "By the way, Fraser.. is the child yours?"

Fraser gritted his teeth. "If anything happens to her, I'll tear your hospital apart."

She was already in the operating room, and he was only telling him now!! Might as well be dead!

Without another word, Fraser threw off the covers, grabbed his clothes, and rushed out.

Hearing his frigid tone, Xavier felt a chill run down his spine. Even though Fraser was not in front of him, the coldness in his words was enough to make him shiver. "I was just trying to help..."

Before he could finish, the call was cut off. Staring at the disconnected call, Xavier finally processed Fraser's reaction.

So the child was Fraser's

The sleek black luxury car tore down the road like a beast unleashed, swift and aggressive. The roaring wind and engine noise were locked outside the cabin.

Inside, the only sound was the fierce pounding of Fraser's heart. His slender fingers gripped the steering wheel tightly, obsidian eyes fixed on the road ahead. His foot pressed the gas pedal to its limit. With a sharp turn of the wheel, he sped through a red light.

His lips curled into a cold smirk,

That woman. She was really something

A Second Too Late

"Summer!" His deep voice rang out.

His gaze locked onto the glowing red words above the surgical doors that said 'surgery in progress.

+8 Pearls

His pupils constricted, long lashes trembling slightly. For a moment, he couldn't comprehend those words, or rather, he refused to. Then, like a tidal wave crashing over him, realization struck.

The doors slowly opened. A few doctors in white coats stepped out.

Fraser's brows furrowed tightly. Without hesitation, he grabbed one of the doctors

by the collar, his voice razor-sharp The woman inside, how is she?

The doctor, startled, was lifted off the ground. He thought this was some violent hospital troublemaker. "Sir, let me go! Calm

down!"

Fraser's cold, dark eyes locked onto him. "Tell me."

The doctor, his back drenched in cold sweat, hurriedly stammered, "I'll talk! The patient just finished the procedure. She's Still under anesthesia and needs time to recover. She'll be brought out later.

At those words, Fraser slowly released his grip. His pitch-black eyes turned dull and lifeless, as if his soul had been wrenched away. A hollow emptiness settled over him.

The doctor, finally free, nearly stumbled to the ground. Clutching his chest, he muttered under his breath. "Damn. So handsome, but completely unhinged."

Then, quickly grabbing his colleagues, he hurried away. Terrified that this maniac might snap again.