Ch. 241..250
Chapter 241
The Weight of Choices
+8 Pearls
Fraser stood motionless, his silhouette radiating desolation His gray-tinged eyes were dull and his low voice carried a barely perceptible tremor
"Who was responsible!"
An experienced physician nearby recognized the situation only too well
He sighed. 'Sir, please accept our condolences. As doctors, we advised the young lady against it, but she insisted on terminating the pregnancy. We had to respect her choice."
At these words, Fraser's lips curled into a bitter, self-mocking smile.
Summer... Do you really despise any connection to me that much?
How could you be so inconsiderate?
His fist slammed into the operating room door with brutal force, instantly splitting the skin as blood gushed from his knuckles. The surrounding onlookers recoiled from the icy rage emanating from him, too intimidated to approach
Meanwhile, Summer stepped out of the adjacent recovery area, her eyes immediately drawn to the commotion nearby
And there he was, impossible to miss.
Dressed head to toe in black, his tall frame radiated an almost palpable intensity. For a moment she stood frozen, unable to look away.
Fraser stiffened. Then, as if sensing her presence, he slowly turned. His dark eyes fixed on her with the stillness of a winter storm, still and yet seething beneath the surface
Summer's breath caught. That searing gaze made her skin crawl with guilt and discomfort. Instinct screamed at her to flee but in the next heartbeat, he was there,
Long strides closed the distance between them before his arms wrapped around her, crushing her to his chest with almost desperate force. His entire body trembled, as if he feared she would vanish.
Trapped against the hard planes of his body, Summer could barely breathe. She pushed at his shoulders. Fraser, what are you. Let me go!"
It took agonizing seconds for his grip to loosen. When she finally met his eyes again, they were darker and more dangerous than she'd ever seen, like submerged reefs. His gaze dropped to her stomach, his expression tightening
Summer knew.
Ite'd heard about the pregnancy. About the abortion.
"Why didn't you tell me?" His voice was harsh, raw,
"We broke up." Summer replied.
A humorless laugh escaped Fraser. "So that means I don't even deserve to know? You'd just" His voice cracked without word?"
The bluntness of his words drew stares from the nearby patients and staff. Heat flooded Summer's cheeks. This wasn't exactly something I wanted broadcast
When his grip didn't loosen, she blurted, "I didn't take it away! Okay?"
The Weight of Choices
"We're going to start the sedation now," the doctor said. "Stop"
The word left Summer's lips before she could question it.
Maybe it wasn't impulsive. Maybe I'd known all along
So what if I'm a single mom
I have the resources. The strength.
This child is mine, no ties to the Frinters, in complication.
48 Pharts
She pushed past the startled medical team and leht.
Back in the present, Fraser was completely still. A flicker of something fragile, hope? Burned through the darkness in his eyes
Truth?"
Thud
Yvette chose this moment to return, thermos in hand. She took one look at the scene and marched forward, ready to intervene, but Xavier smoothly stepped into her path.
Yvette gazed at him coldly. "You had blocked my way
"Let them sort it out, Xavier said, arms folded. His mouth twisted. "How about coffee instead?"
Yvette's stare could have frozen lava. "Do I look like I need your pity coffee? After
a long, judgmental look at Summer, she turned on her heel and stalked off.
Chapter 242
The Unspoken Compromise
Xavier watched her go, amused.
Interesting.
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Though I lacked Fraser's striking almost brutal beauty, I still appealed, tall at
190cm, with a refined handsomeness that cruded effortless
charm.
For the first time in my life. I had been rejected outright by a beautiful troman, and damn it, it stang.
He looked back at the scene, his gaze lingering on Fraser.
We'd known each other for years.
But this was the first time I'd seen the usually unflappable "Bossman" so completely unraveled
Tch
Women really were trouble.
Xavier vowed then and there. I'd never lose myself over one
What a senseless warte.
Summer wasn't quite sure how she ended up in the passenger seat of Fraser's Mystery.
The car glided along Havenbrook's riverfront, where neon lights from the opposite bank shimmered like scattered stars against the night sky. Reeds whispered along the banks, their rustling melding with the hum of the city.
With the push of a button, Fraser retracted the roof, transforming the sleek vehicle into an open-air spectacle that turned heads
He slumped back in the driver's seat and fished out a cigarette case. A slim cigarette dangled between his fingers until he abruptly stuffed it back, unlit
He
tapped the case absently, his voice deceptively casual. "Why the abortion?"
Summer kept her eyes on the hypnotic river lights. "You should be asking if the baby is even yours
Fraser's gaze dropped to her still-flat belly, his mouth twitching. It is."
Her lips pressed together.
"No. It's mine, only mine."
After a steadying breath, she turned to face him fully.
Those dark eyes, deep enough to drown, locked with hers.
"Fraser," she said slowly, "we're done. A baby changes nothing."
His expression hardened. "So I'm supposed to pretend this isn't happening?" A humorless laugh. "Dream on."
Summer looked away, concentrating on the reeds swaying in the breeze. "Then what? Will you marry me?"
The ulence stretched.
Then she laughed, bitter but unsurprised.
"Relax" she said gently. Tm not trying to trap you. The moment I got
ot off the operating table, I decided to raise this child on
The Unsocken Compromise
his eyes pleadingly. For what we had let me do this my way."
When he remained stone-faced, she continu
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"Someone like you could have any woman who bore your children"
The cigarette case hit the dashboard th a clatter
"Why ask me?" Fraser bit out, jerking his chin at her stomach "Ask the child. Apparently I'm just a sperm donor here"
Summer exhaled sharp!
Unbelictable
"If you get married someday" she said tight. "I swear the kid wont interfere
His jaw clenched
Esen werd cut of her mouth traincter seal of
Overy word out of he
diti
As I were already dead
in my grate, liže another way on emase me,
"How considerate." he scoffed. "Shall I call a press conference Les all of
Havenbrook know how magnanimous my ex is
Summer's patience snapped
Why is this
You know damn well your family would never accept me
Her encounters with Helen Eashed through her mind.
This baby ma
nor to protecti
Fraser studied her for a long moment before muttering If marriage is what you wa
"No." She cut him of No forced compromises This baby
Her voice wavered. It's my su rise) Not our fault'
The Mystery purred to life, merging into Havenbrook's glittering bloom
The silence thickened between them.
Summer turned to the window, watching the blur of neon and trafica chaotic mirror
of her tangled emotions
Chapter 243
The Unyielding Standoff
Summer's gaze unconsciously flickered to the man in the driver's seat,
His brisad hand gripped the wheel, knuckles taut. Even bathed in the neon glow of the windows, his chiseled profile remained dterm a marble statue of restrained anger
She knew that look. He was angry.
As the Mystery pulled into Brookhaven Estates, Summer quickly unbuckled her seatbelt. Thanks for the ride_"
The driver's door slanumed shut mül-sentence.
Fraser circled the car, all towering arrogance, one hand in his pocket. "Let's god
Summer blinked. "I can walk myself."
ITin
Tm not escorting you, he said flatly, his eyes glattering "Tm making sure the mother of my child doesn't trip and crack her skull on the sidewalk"
Ab
The riverfront confrontation was still simmering between then, sharpening his tone to the edge of a blade.
Summer huffed. What danger could lurk in a 300-yard walk through a gated community
Ignoring him, she marched on. Fraser kept pace, watching the way her skirt fluttered with each step, small, defiant swirls in the night air.
At her front door. Summer jammed the key in the lock and barricaded the
"Home safe. Good night.
With her body.
Fraser's grin was icy as he noticed her white-knuckled grip on the doorframe. Tiding someone in there?"
Unbelievable.
Every rational conversation tonight had bounced off his titanium skull
Summer's voice turneil arctic. "One last time, Fraser. This baby! Is mine!"
The smart lock beeped as she slammed the door.
Thud.
Fraser stared at the sealed entrance, then harked a humorless laugh.
When had the grown such a backbone?
First she'd tried to terminate the pregnancy. Then she'd unilaterally decided to raise the child on her own.
Since when did women get to make all the rulest
His phone vibrated. Xavier's name flashed on the screen
“So, Mr. Graham, came the teasing voice. "Have you successfully wooed back our dear Summer?"
Fraser's gaze lingered on the closed door. "Since when are you the relationship office?
Navier chuckled. Just looking out for you. It sounds like you're getting some, though. How about a drink? Let my! mind solve your problems. Come on, I'll be waiting at Aurora."
The Unyielding Standoff
chin
Fraser grabbed a cup. A waiter materialized and poured in the whiskey
The whiskey burned like liquid fire in his throat-fitting given the inferno in his chest.
+ Pearls
Broke with the father and only left the baby" Fraser mattered, swirling the amber liquid "What kind of twisted logic is that?"
Xavier raised a brow Really
anderfood
Even my own family, the Hathaway, would rather bury an illegitimate pregnancy than risk a scandal If I accidentally knocked some girl up my mother would probably write an abortion check before the stick dried
"You're not actually thinking of marrying her are you? Xavier snorted "Madam
Graham would have an aneurysm
Fraser's grip on the glass tightened
amer had added the same question earlier.
nz been out of reluctance but fear Fear that the name Graham will suf
But leaving my child in limbo was equally unthinkable
His eyes went to Xavier. What would you do if you were me
"Me" Xavier stretched his arms along the back of the couch Cash settlement and
a signed NDA. Kids are anchors, my friend
Fraser swallowed the rest of his drink "Right. Asking you was my mistake"
Chapter 244
Mother's Instinct
Meanwhile, at Brookhaven Estates, the doorbell rang insistently.
Summer, assuming it was Fraser's relentless persecutor, yanked open the door without checking the peephole.
"Can't you take a hint?"
Yvette blinked from the doorstep and looked around. "Who can't take a hint?"
Summer exhaled "Wrong person."
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Yvette sauntered in, kicking off her heels before collapsing on the sofa. “So. Where did you two disappear to this afternoon?"
Summer handed her a glass of water from the kitchen. The riverfront."
A mischievous grin crept across Yvette's face. Everyone knew that Havenbrook's
riverfront was the lovers lane, notorious for paparazzi shots of enthusiastic encounters.
"Wow, so romantic
Summer rolled her eyes.
Romantic Hardly. We hadn't even gotten out of the car
"Well?" Yvette prodded. "Did that elegant Mr. Graham promise to make an honest woman out of you?"
Summer remembered their tense conversation
Fraser had clearly wanted the child, but marriage?
The hesitation spoke volumes.
Of course. With his fiancée waiting in the wings, how could he....
Her fingers tightened around her glass. T've made up my mind, Yvette. I'm keeping this child alone."
"Ah!" Yvette was shocked.
Then she was like she understood something, turning into a knowing "Oh. Typical Summer, stubborn as a rock.
"But Fraser won't just walk away," Yvette pointed out. "That's in his DNA, too." Summer's palm drifted to her stomach, protective. "Let him try. Nobody's taking this baby away from me."
The Grahams, with their bottomless resources and ruthless legacy, wouldn't tolerate an “illegitimate" heir floating around. But voicing that fear would make it real
Yvette, noticing Summer's pallor, softened. "Hey, if that's your decision, I've got your back. I'm spoiling this kid rotten, daddy or no daddy.
Gratitude swelled in Summer's chest. She leaned against Yvette's shoulder. "Marry me. Right now. We'll fake your gender on the paperwork."
Yvette choked. "Excuse me?"
'Or you could get that sex-change operation in Ostary. Boom, instant husband,"
Yvette gaped. "Absolutely not. I haven't even slept with half the male population of Havenbrook!"
Mother's instinct
once again came to the airport here to pack up him,
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No longer ha spped through the gates, her implever rebels and abeoad the sight of her mother, we
serppot Chatheres by Jasper betrayal, now standing tail shall through Summers choc
Summer Jula soled gently as her daughter ook the gene cart. The vast have come Week me
scoliosi
dn't Work be
ammer javed a smile, askoating how the Oblican sustigi bat erased the Shadows from her
Julia cupped her tace in suhen concert. Your thinner en vee the look pale."
Zetlag hallmaten Summer delected, seeing her toward the ex
But a wast fooled, "Well as thus Real meals Today
dia wasnt fooled. "Well as the
The familu
naternal flassing i tly derailed summer dhe vepr
ansión, Julia asked the maid to take out one piece
These were p
elry to chic small toys, there were more
Summer traces the intricate carvings on the music box. You bought all this just for me?!
le wavered. I should have done it years ago.
The unspok.
spoken words hung between them lastead of tvering Jaspers illegitimate childre
"Mo" mmer caught her wrist, her heart pounding Sit. We need to talk
Julia froze, reading the seriousness in her daughters eyes. Slowly, she lowered herself onto the cooch
Chapter 245
Julia held up a delicate clover-shaped brooch. "What's the matter? Look at this brooch. Isn't it beautiful? The Oblistan tour guide said this four-leaf clover bronch would bring good luck, so I bought it.
She pinned it on Summer's blue sweater. The silver accessory stood out beautifully against the casual outfit, the loose knit sweater paired with a flowing blue pleated skirt that made Summer look youthful and relaxed.
"It suits you, Julia nodded in agreement.
After a moment's hesitation, Summer dropped the bombshell. Tm pregnant."
Julia had been helping Summer try on a necklace. Her hands froze in mid-air, almost dropping the jewelry. "What?"
"I said... I'm pregnant, Summer repeated clearly
Finally processing the words, Julia's voice rose anxiously. Pregnant? Whose? The Mr. Graham?"
Summer replied calmly. "No matter whose it is. I've decided to keep it. My belly will grow. I can't hide it forever."
Seeing Summer's determined expression, Julia's face darkened. "What does the Graham family think? Now that you're carrying their child, have they agreed to marry you? Do you know how hard it is to raise a child on your own? We're still a family of status; think of the gossip and rumors of high society!"
The barrage of questions left Summer speechless
Julia's heart sank at her daughter's silence. The Grahams' strict, hierarchical family values are well known. Of course, things aren't going to be easy.
Summer grabbed her mother's hands. "Mom, my decision is final. Believe in me. I can do this on my own."
Julia sighed deeply.
I do believe in Summer's ability. But the thought of my daughter going through a pregnancy under the judgmental eyes of society is unbearable.
No, I have to demand answers!
While Sunner was at work, Julia secretly went to the Gra
When Helen
Graham Mansion to confront Helen.
Helen heard the butler announce Summer's mother's visit, she let her in with cold amusement.
It was the first time Julia had entered the Graham Mansion. Though she came from wealth herself, she was still awed by the imposing grandeur of the place, every detail exuding power and history.
Helen sat regally on the main sofa, eyeing her visitor with disdain. "Mrs. Stewart, to what do I owe this.... unexpected visit?"
Julia perched nervously on the edge of the opposite sofa, acutely aware of the older woman's hostility. But for the sake of her daughter, she would swallow her pride that was the debt she owed Summer.
With a forced smile, Julia said, "Madam Graham, I've long admired your reputation. It's an honor to meet you today. This jade bracelet is but a small token of my respect," She slid an exquisite rosewood box across the table,
Inside was an imperial green jade bracelet of flawless clarity, obviously priceless.
Helen accepted a cup of premium tea from a maid, barely glancing at the gift. "Let's not waste time. State your business."
Julia maintained her smile. "My daughter Summer and your grandson seem to be quite fond of each other. I only hope you will give their relationship your blessing"
A mocking snort cut her off. Helen finally looked at her, eyes glittering with malice. "How clever of you. Your failing department stores aren't enough, so now you plan to climb higher with your daughter?"
Titienu"
Chapter 246
Schemes and Alliances.
Just like that, Julia was unceremoniously ushered out of the Graham Mansion.
As she stood before the towering wrought-iron gates, her heart ached at the thought of Summer's unborn child.
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I had come hoping to test the Grahams' attitude. If there had been even a hint of openness, I would have revealed Summer's pregnancy. But Madam Graham's hostility made it clear. Acceptance would be harder than scaling the heavens.
Inside the Graham Mansion, a figure dressed all in black, in a hooded sweatshirt and pants, was discreetly ushered through a side entrance by the butler.
"Madam Graham," the man bowed respectfully before making his report.
Helen's expression changed from calm to anger. "Pregnant?! So that's why this woman came crawling here today!"
The butler ventured cautiously, "Shall we... allow things to proceed between Mr. Graham and Ms. Stewart?"
"Let her bring a child into our family? Never!" Helen's nails dug into the armrests.
The butler hesitated, "Anyway.. that child is still Mr. Graham's.
"Stop!" Helen interrupted coldly, her eyes blazing, "It's not even certain if it's Fraser's.
"Then... What do you mean? The butler looked at her cautiously.
Helen frowned, contemplated for a while, and let out a cold laugh.
not be
"That bitch took our shares, promising to leave Fraser alone, then deliberately got pregnant. Such cunning cannot be rewarded!"
After a weighted pause, her lips curled. "Let her carry to term. If the DNA proves it's a Graham, we'll take the child."
The butler nodded. "Understood."
Since Lucas had been introduced to expert Ryan, he and Summer had grown closer. Recognizing her need for guidance in running the Stewart Group, he frequently invited her to industry events.
Today's Corporate Leadership Forum proved particularly enlightening. As applause followed a keynote address, Lucas handed Summer a glass of water.
"Rest your voice. You've been asking questions nonstop."
"Thank you." She took a sip. "These management strategies are just what I needed."
Lucas adjusted his glasses and smiled. "Rare to meet a woman so dedicated to the dry details of business."
Summer arched her brow. "Oh? What are the women you know usually like?"
Truth be told, Lucas had little experience with women beyond his college sweetheart, a dancer. Summer was his first encounter with someone who genuinely enjoyed boardroom battles.
"Women should be nurtured,” he said pointedly. "Too much striving isn't becoming
Summer laughed. "What choice do I have? I can't let the Stewart malls crumble on my watch
Lucas's eyes softened behind his glasses. "You're too stubborn for your own good."
At the buffet, he piled delicate pastries on her plate. The moment the cloying sweetness hit her tongue. Summer's stomach revolted
Schemes and Alliances
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Before she could answer, the forum organizers approached. "Mr. Lucas, the participants are requesting your insights on stage."
Lucas felt a bit embarrassed
Summer waved him off. "Go ahead. I'll get some air.
Lucas hesitated. "Don't go far. I'll drive you home after."
"Im not a kid, she teased.
The sprawling five-star property had several function rooms, but Summer only needed the patio,
These days, even mild smells made me nauseous. My pregnancy was wearing the three-month mark.
Suddenly, two boys ran around a hedge brandishing toy guns.
"Bang! Bang! You're dead!"
One darted behind Summer, using her as a shield as he tugged at her skirt. "Stay still! Block him!"
Class pellets stabbed her arms. Summer quickly covers her stomach and is going to step away.
"No! You can't go!" The brat clung tighter. "You have to block him in front of me!"
Summer poked at his grubby fingers. "I'm not going to play. Where are your parents"?
Chapter 247
Reckoning with Brats
The boy, seeing her refusal to comply, immediately threw a tantrum,
"I told you not to move! Fine, little brother, let's shoot this disobedient woman instead!
The other boy clapped excitedly, "Yes! Let's see who can hit her the most
The two unruly children raised their toy guns and pointed them at Summer.
Summer immediately recognized them as spoiled brats, wild, undisciplined, and completely lawless.
"If you don't stop this nonsense, I will lose my temper, she warned.
The boys only grew more delighted at her threat.
"Quickly! The enemy is angry! Get ready to snipe! We have to take her down!"
Summer, newly pregnant, knew that being pelted with dozens of pellets could be dangerous
Her eyes darted to a long-handled broom nearby.
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Elsewhere in the banquet hall, Fraser stood talking to an associate, one hand in his pocket, his tall frame commanding attention. A commotion nearby caused him to glance over indifferently until his gaze landed on a familiar figure.
Sawyer Jade, who had been trying to ingratiate himself with Fraser, followed his gaze and chuckled.
"Ah, those are my twin boys, just at that mischievous age. Who knew they would actually team up against someone? Makes a father proud"
Fraser's expression darkened. "Your sons?"
Unaware of the danger, Sawyer continued smugly. "Mr. Graham, my boys have inherited my good looks..."
Fraser's voice turned icy. "Too bad they didn't inherit your stupidity."
Sawyer froze. "Huh?"
Back on the battlefield, just as the boys were about to open fire, their weapons were suddenly snatched from above.
"Who gave you permission to raid what's mine?"
Hearing that deep, familiar voice, Summer turned, and there was Fraser.
She quietly put the broom down
A toy gun was thrust into her hands. Summer took it reflexively, blinking in surprise.
The boys, now disarmed, bared their teeth like little animals.
Who do you think you are, stealing our guns?! Do you even know who our father is?"
Sawyer ran over, sweating bullets-
These little idiots, your father is nothing but a lackey for this man!
He bowed apologetically. "Mr. Graham, the kids don't know any better; please don't take it to heart!"
The boys, seeing their father, immediately pointed at Fraser and demanded justice.
"Dad" This man stole our guns! First break his legs, then twist his arms, and binally make him kneel and beg for mercy!"
Reckoning with Brats
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Thud! Thud! Thud!
Glass pellets rained down on the two boys.
"Ow! It hurts!"
"Stop! Stop! Please stop!"
They hopped around like burned ants.
Sawyer quickly pulled them into a protective embrace, using his own back as a shield. Even I winced at the sting: how much worse must it be for the children?
"Mr. Graham. I beg you. They are just children! Why stoop to their level?"
Fraser's lips curled. "Sawyer, if you won't discipline your children, I'll do it for you. I can't have people thinking that the entrepreneurs 1 invest in are raising wild animals.
He fired another round.
Thud: Thud! Thud!
Suddenly, an elderly woman came charging in like a battle-hardened general
The boys shouted, "Grandma! Grandma! Save us and Dad!"
The old woman glared at Fraser with venom. "How dare you attack my grandsons and my son! A man as cruel as you, may your own children be born without an ass!"
Fraser's gaze flickered to Summer's stomach before he replied coolly, "Don't worry about my child's anatomy"
His voice dropped dangerously. "But yours? After today, they won't even dare wear pants in public.
He turned to Summer, the corner of his mouth turning up in a
a smirk.
"Since they tried to shoot you, how about we team up? One gun each. Let's wipe them out together"
Summer was speechless.
Is this a war zone?
Tram up
Wipe them out?!
The old woman, relying on her age, spreads her arms wide like a human shield.
Chapter 248
"If your
sou dare shoot me, go ahead Aim for the old woman's bones! The old woman screamed, spreading her arms wide.
Summer couldn't take it anymore. She stepped forward and tugged at Fraser's sleeve. "Let go
Fraser lifted his eyelids slightly, his gaze falling on Summer's pale hand clutching his sleeve. He spoke slowly, "TEL hadn't gotten there in time, they might have hurt my daughter. Then what?"
Summer was speechless.
Even without his appearance, I had been on the verge of grabbing the broom to defend myself
Noticing the man's intense gaze on her hand. Summer quickly let go of his sleeve, feeling self-conscious.
Sawyer's face turned green with panic. Gnashing his teeth, he hissed at his mother, "Mom, what are you doing? Get out of the way! Stop making trouble! He's the main investor in my company!"
The old woman became even more stubborn. "Not even the King of Heaven himself can touch my family! I am an elder. He wouldn't dare touch a single hair on my head!"
The two brats jumped up and down and cheered, "Grandma is amazing! Dad, you're so useless!"
Fraser raised an eyebrow. "Is that so
Thud!
He fired a a pellet right at the old woman's arm.
"Ah! The grandmother never expected the man to actually shoot.
She immediately collapsed to the ground in a dramatic spread, screaming. "Help! Somebody help! This man is attacking an elderly person! I'm hurt, and I can't get
up
The commotion quickly drew a crowd of onlookers from the hotel. The manager arrived with several security guards in tow.
Fraser didn't even blink, his expression completely indifferent as he spoke coldly, word for word. "Since you're injured, you should get checked out at the hospital I don't want them to find anything wrong. Let's see, where exactly are you hurt? The armi
He aimed at her arm and fired again.
Thud!
"Or the leg?"
Thud!
"Or maybe your body?"
With each question, Fraser efficiently fired pellets at her legs and torso.
Now the old woman was really crying with pain.
"Hey Everyone saw that! This man is vicious, attacking an old woman like me! Somebody call the police! Arrest him! Son, call our lawyer! I'm going to sue him to death!"
Sawyer felt like he was being roasted over a fire, and he paced anxiously.
If I'd just begged earlier, this might have blown over!
Chapter 248 The Aftermath
As the hotel manager was about to call the police, Mike stepped forward to stop him.
"You're quite the proactive manager, calling the police on your own boss, Mike said pointedly.
He motioned to the bodyguards. "Escort these people out immediately
The hotel manager turned pale with realization and quickly began to disperse the crowd.
Lucas arrives. As he emerged from the forum and heard the gossip, he pieced together what had happened.
When he spotted Summer, he hurried over anxiously.
"Are you okay?"
Summer shook her head. "I'm fine."
Fraser turned his head, his cold gaze sweeping over the man and woman standing not far away
He casually tossed the toy gun aside.
How ironic, saving my wife, only to have this outsider claim credit.
Fraser's lips curled in contempt.
Lucas said to Summer, "Come on, let me send you home.
away.
Fraser strolled forward with lazy steps, his deep eyes fixed on Summer as he nonchalantly asked, "Shall I take you instead?"
Two tall, imposing men now stood in front of Summer.
She was at a loss for words.
Lucas recognized Fraser immediately. He was the same man from that night at
the Sonata Bar. And clearly, the man holds some animosity towards me.
Lucas smiled politely. Thanks for helping Ms. Stewart earlier."
Fraser scoffed inwardly.
How amusing, Acting like the host now.
With a provocative grin, Fraser replied in a low, teasing voice, "No need to thank
me. After all, Summer and I have a... special relationship."
Summer blushed. "We have no such relationship!"
She turned to Lucas. "Let's go."
As Fraser watched Summer walk toward Lucas, his smile faded and his eyes darkened.
"Should I explain exactly what kind of special relationship we have, hmm?" Fraser had always been uninhibited and domineering to the extreme. When he was displeased, he didn't even spare the gods dignity.
Summer feared what outrageous things he might say in such a public setting Hiting her lip, she hesitated before turning back to Lucas with an apologetic look. "Mr. Lucas... there's something I need to take care of. Perhaps you should go back first."
Lucas studied Summer for a long moment. Realizing that she might be in a difficult situation, he decided not to push any further.
Chapter 249
The Car Ride
"All right, send me a message when you get home, Lucas said before leaving.
Once Lucas was gone, Summer completely ignored Fraser and walked straight ahead.
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Fraser followed her leisurely, watching as the woman walked faster and faster,
as if she was fleeing from some terrible beast.
She hadn't answered any of my messages during that time.
Every call had been rejected.
This man's temper seemed to get worse every day.
It is really giving me a headache.
"Hey, Fraser called lazily from behind her.
Summer pretended not to hear.
"Summer?"
She quickened her pace.
"Darling.
Summer's footsteps stopped abruptly. She turned, both annoyed and
embarrassed as she glared at him.
"What nonsense are you calling me?"
Fraser raised an eyebrow slightly, looking as if he had no choice but to indulge
her. "What else could I do? You won't acknowledge me."
His tone made it sound like Summer was the one bullying him.
Yet this man stood there completely at ease, tall, noble, and impossible for passersby to ignore. Especially after the word "darling" left his lips, the curious looks around them intensified
Not wanting to draw any more attention, Summer could only stomp her foot in frustration before following him to his car.
Fraser had been driven here today by his chauffeur. Summer knew that he always had a driver when he attended formal. business events.
As soon as she got into the car, Summer pressed herself against the door and
closed her eyes in a clear "I'm sleeping, don't disturb me" position.
Fraser found her behavior amusing, the corners of his lips curling slightly.
The driver started the engine and asked, "Mr. Graham, where to?"
"Ravenshire..
Summer's eyes widened instantly. "Berry Avenue 181"
That was the address of the Stewart Mansion.
After Julia returned from Oblistan, Summer had moved back home. The plan to change villas had been delayed due to her sudden pregnancy and other complications, so she had to stay there for now,
Fard with two different addresses, the driver was momentarily unsure where to go.
The Car Ride
As if I'm a child who would cry over this!
She turned her head away again, pretending to sleep with her eyes closed.
But the man in the car clearly didn't understand, or chose to ignore, her blatant rejection.
+8 Pearls
Fraser's gaze lingered on her, taking in the elegant updo that exposed her slender neck. His voice, deep and magnetic, tilled the car
"Summer Piglet, considering I just helped you, can you at least stop giving me the cold shoulder!"
As soon as he said this, Summer noticed the driver's curious glance in the rearview mirror.
Frowning, she replied. "My face has always looked like this.
Fraser's eyebrows furrowed slightly, his deep voice carrying clear dissatisfaction.
To me, you're as cold as a freezer, but to that man, you smile like a blooming flower?"
Smile like a blooming flower?
This man really knows how to craggerate.
Summer deliberately contradicted him. I smile at whoever I want,"
Fraser's tone became commanding. "Not allowed. You can only smile at me. Summer refused to back down. Tll smile at whoever I want. You can't control me."
Fraser laughed in exasperation. "For a man you barely know, is this how you treat the father of your child? My daughter would be furious if she found out.
"How do you know it's a daughter and not a son?"
Fraser's eyebrow arched lazily. I just know. She told me in a dream. She said she wanted to sleep with her daddy"
Once again, Fraser's nonsense left Summer speechless.
She coldly reminded him, "She only has one mother"
Suddenly, Fraser reached out and pulled her directly onto his lap.
One arm was wrapped tightly around her waist, while the other hand rested gently on her stomach.
His gaze
softened as he looked at her, his voice a seductive murmur. "She needs her father too?
Summer turned her face away, struggling slightly. "Let go, Fraser. This is harassment!"
Fraser casually pressed a button that lifted the partition separating them from the driver's seat.
A teasing grin played on his lips. "Go ahead, call the police and have me arrested.
"Pervert"
Summer refused to look at him, but sitting on his lap, she could feel the firm muscles beneath her, the searing heat of his body seeping into hers. "Summer," Fraser said, his voice softer now. "I just want to talk to you properly."
Summer continued to try to free herself. “We have nothing more to say."
Chapter 250
The Proposal
The words by Fraser exploded in the car like a landmine.
"I broke off the engagement."
Summer's struggles froze in mid-movement, her expression stiffening.
Fraser reached out and pinched her cheek. Her skin was smooth and pale, soft to the touch.
"Give me a reaction, hmm?"
Summer came to her senses and slapped his hand away. "Who you marry or don't marry is your business. Let me down."
Even if Fraser had called off this engagement, the Graham family will simply find another corporate alliance, another suitable bride.
Fraser lifted his gaze, his dark eyes piercing as they met hers. His voice fell, serious now. “About what you asked last time. About marriage, I want to explain".
At the mention of that humiliating moment when he'd hesitated, Summer's face turned to ice. "If you keep talking about it, I'm getting out of the car right now."
Seeing her reaction, Fraser relented with a sigh. "Fine, fine. You're the boss now. I won't mention it."
When they arrived at the Stewart Mansion, Summer immediately reached for the doorknob.
Fraser followed her out.
Summer looked around nervously, afraid Julia would see them. "You've seen me home. Now leave."
Fraser stayed where he was, his lips curving into that annoyingly lazy smile. "My daughter says she wants to look at me a little longer. You can't deny her that right."
"You're crazy!"
There is only an embryo in my womb
Suddenly Fraser was kneeling in front of her, his hands resting lightly on her waist as he pressed his ear to her belly.
"Listen, little girl," he murmured, his tone shifting to mock severity. "Don't be too rowdy in there. Or Daddy will spank you first when you come out."
When he stood, his dark eyes held hers, intense, focused, creating the illusion of deep affection.
"Summer," he said quietly, "ignore my calls and texts if you want. But if you need anything, remember to contact me. You're not alone anymore."
Caught in that unexpectedly tender gaze, Summer forgot to look away.
Fraser didn't move, his eyes darkening as he watched her. Then he gently drew her closer, his handsome face slowly lowering. Their breaths mingled.
Just as his lips were about to brush hers
"Summer!"
Julia's voice rang from the balcony.
Summer jumped back, mortified at how easily she'd been swayed by his charms. She shoved Fraser away and hurried inside. her steps uncharacteristically
nervous.
The Proposal
+8 Pearls:
Summer took a seat. Half the dishes were clearly nutritional supplements, meals tailored for a pregnant woman.
Julia put a piece of tender fish in Summer's bowl "At first I didn't support you keeping this child alone. It's too hard."
Summer chewed slowly as Julia continued.
"But now that you've decided. I'm with you. Even without the Grahams, our family can raise this child."
If the gates of that golden tower wouldn't open for them, we wouldn't crawl in
"Right now, at two months, it's easy to hide. But at five or six months... Julia hesitated. "I don't want to expose you to gossip Maybe we should go to Oblistan and stay with your aunt. If things go well, we could settle down there."
Summer understood. Julia wanted to take me away, start over where no one would judge.
I appreciate the thought. Once my pregnancy is revealed, the rumors will be relentless.
“But what about the Stewart malls? Summer asked quietly,
Julia's expression hardened. They were built with my family's money, but Jasper developed them. After what he did to me..."
She shook her head. "If you agree, we'll sell them."
Summer looked down at her plate. "Let me think about it."
She knew. Julia was trying to protect me the only way she knew how.