Ch. 281..290
Chapter 281
Fraser's fingers slowly traced along her waist, making Summer's body
involuntarily soften. She quickly made up a lie. "It's not that... Yvette said she's scared of thunder and asked me to keep her company."
"Really? I thought your best friend wasn't afraid of anything"
"I'll go home tomorrow."
"Alright then. Get some rest tonight"
After hanging up, Fraser's lips curved into a smile. 'So well-behaved? Makes me want to really spoil you... what should I do about that?"
Summer looked down. "I've got my follow-up appointment tomorrow."
Fraser let out a low chuckle. "Right... so it's only because of the checkup that you're staying."
At Ravenshire Boulevard, the storm outside was in full force. Rain streaked down the massive windows, and dark clouds churned like ink in the sky. Lightning split the night in two with every
strike.
Summer stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling windows, arms folded, quietly watching the storm
unfold.
Fraser walked up behind her without a sound and wrapped his arms around her, resting his chin. on her head.
"You said you're afraid of thunder. So why are you watching it?"
Summer blinked, trying to wiggle out of the too-intimate embrace, but his arms held her firmly in place.
After a pause, she said, "Actually... I'm not afraid of thunder. I lied that night."
"Oh?"
"I just wanted you to stay with me."
Fraser immediately thought of the message he'd missed that night. "I'm sorry I wasn't there."
He scooped her up and carried her to the couch, settling her on his lap. His dark eyes locked onto Hers, silent and intense.
Under that invasive gaze, Summer's ears began to flush with heat.
She was just about to stand when she felt a cool sensation around her wrist.
She Innked down
Chapter 281 Afraid of Thunder
The sapphire bracelet was already fastened.
Fraser said softly, "Keep it on."
Summer stared at the dazzling bracelet. "I gave it back to you."
Fraser murmured, "It was always yours."
She brushed her fingers across the gems. Her voice was quiet. "It's not mine anymore."
Fraser lifted her chin, gently but firmly. “Summer, I know you don't believe I really like you. That's fine. This time, we'll take it slow. I'll wait."
Wait for you to fall in love with me.
Summer stared into his eyes. They were deep, still, like a whirlpool pulling her in.
Eyes that seemed to say: just trust me one more time.
Later, Fraser's phone rang. He went to the study to join a video call.
Summer went to shower. Soaking in the bath for a while helped ease the exhaustion in her body.
By the time she came out, he had finished the meeting.
She picked up a magazine in the living room, then returned to the guest room as usual.
Fraser stood by the kitchen counter, drinking from a glass. The way his Adam's apple moved as he swallowed was oddly alluring in the storm's silence.
His dark eyes didn't leave Summer for even a second. That gaze was as heavy and consuming as the storm outside.
Summer bit her lip. "I'm going to bed."
His deep, magnetic voice followed: "Mm."
With his intense stare burning into her back, Summer turned and slowly walked toward the guest
room.
Even without looking, she could feel the heat of his gaze trailing her.
Her movements grew clumsy
She opened the door, stepped inside, and glanced back. "Goodnight."
Fraser didn't move. His black eyes were locked on her, impossibly deep, watching her disappear into the room.
Click
Afraid of Thunder
Summer leaned against it, feeling her pounding heart. She waited for it to slow down.
That man... was actually seducing her.
On the other side of the door, Fraser stared at the wood for a beat, then gave a faint laugh.
"Little coward."
Midnight.
Thunder rolled across the sky in deep rumbles. The storm outside seemed determined to shake the world apart.
The noise woke Summer. Her throat was dry, so she got up to grab a glass of water.
She stepped into the darkened living room. Not bothering to turn on the light, she used the faint glow from the storm-lit windows to find her way to the kitchen and poured a full glass.
After drinking it in one long gulp, the restlessness stirred up by the thunder finally began to
settle.
She turned to head back to her room..
But just as she opened the guest room door-
Strong arms suddenly wrapped around her from behind and lifted her off the
ground.
The next second, she was pinned gently but firmly against the door.
"Mmm-"
Summer let out a muffled cry.
Fraser pressed against her, his lips catching hers and swallowing the sound
whole.
Chapter 282
You'll Make It On Time
His kiss was urgent, dominant, and full of unfiltered desire as it pressed into her lips.
"You're... such a jerk." Summer whispered breathlessly.
Fraser's lips curved into a slow grin. He bit her earlobe gently, his voice low and hoarse. "Mm, I
1. am.
Outside, lightning lit up the night sky, casting flashes across the two tangled bodies that refused. to pull apart.
The next morning.
The air, freshly rinsed by the night's storm, smelled clean and crisp-full of life.
Sunlight streamed in through the windows.
Summer woke to a light tickling sensation spreading across her skin.
She blinked her sleepy eyes open to see Fraser hovering just above her.
One arm was braced on her pillow, the other resting beside her. His dark eyes swept across her face, then he lowered his head to kiss her neck.
Summer stared at him, still a little dazed.
Seeing her blank expression, Fraser let out a soft laugh and nibbled on her lip. His magnetic voice carried a touch of indulgent warmth. "Still sleepy, huh
Summer snapped back to reality, suddenly remembering the night before. That kiss-deep, endless.
Her heart had pounded so hard, it even stirred the baby inside her. That was the only reason they hadn't gone further.
But somehow, he'd insisted on squeezing into the guest room bed with her anyway.
Thinking about it now, Summer's lashes fluttered, and her cheeks turned a soft pink.
Then she suddenly remembered something.
She grabbed her phone and checked the time-her eyes widened.
She shoved him off and sat up in a rush.
Love Drug
You'll Make It On Time
His kiss was urgent, dominant, and full of unfiltered desire as it pressed into her lips.
"You're... such a jerk," Summer whispered breathlessly.
Fraser's lips curved into a slow grin. He bit her earlobe gently, his voice low and hoarse. "Mm, I
1. am.
Outside, lightning lit up the night sky, casting flashes across the two tangled bodies that refused to pull apart.
The next morning.
The air, freshly rinsed by the night's storm, smelled clean and crisp-full of life.
Sunlight streamed in through the windows.
Summer woke to a light tickling sensation spreading across her skin.
She blinked her sleepy eyes open to see Fraser hovering just above her.
One arm was braced on her pillow, the other resting beside her. His dark eyes swept across her face, then he lowered his head to kiss her neck.
Summer stared at him, still a little dazed.
Seeing her blank expression, Fraser let out a soft laugh and nibbled on her lip. His magnetic voice carried a touch of indulgent warmth. "Still sleepy, huh
Summer snapped back to reality, suddenly remembering the night before. That kiss-deep, endless.
Her heart had pounded so hard, it even stirred the baby inside her. That was the only reason they hadn't gone further.
But somehow, he'd insisted on squeezing into the guest room bed with her anyway.
Thinking about it now, Summer's lashes fluttered, and her cheeks turned a soft pink.
Then she suddenly remembered something.
She grabbed her phone and checked the time-her eyes widened.
She shoved him off and sat up in a rush.
You'll Make It On Time
Late or not, Fraser didn't seem to care. If they were late, he could just buy the whole hospital to make sure she got seen.
He watched as Summer scrambled into the bathroom, then rushed through her makeup routine. His dark eyes followed her every movement, never leaving her.
When she turned back, she found him still lounging exactly where she left him, one hand lazily propped against his temple, gaze fixed on her like he hadn't moved an inch.
His stare was deep-almost dangerous.
Summer frowned. "Weren't you coming with me? Do you know what time it is?”
Fraser finally threw off the covers and stood up.
Loose gray sweatpants hung from his hips, and his bare upper body was all clean, sculpted
muscle.
He casually walked past her toward the bathroom, and as he passed, he reached out to brush a strand of hair away from her forehead.
"Relax. You won't be late. Breakfast is ready in the dining room. Just eat first, then we'll go."
Summer stepped into the dining room and found the table already set with warm soy milk, millet porridge, soup dumplings, and steamed rice rolls.
She was hungrier than she realized.
After she finished eating, Fraser finally emerged, moving with his usual lazy stride.
He'd dressed more casually today to accompany her to the hospital.
He wore a black windbreaker zipped up to the collar, paired with light gray joggers. His tall frame carried the outfit effortlessly. Without the sharp edges of a suit, he looked less like a cold CEO and more like someone effortlessly confident- still dangerous, just more relaxed.
Noticing her staring, Fraser's lips quirked up. He crooked a finger, motioning her
over.
Curious, Summer walked toward him.
Fraser leaned down close to her ear, his voice a low, seductive hum. "Summer, don't look at me like that. My self-control isn't that good."
His warm breath tickled the edge of her ear, and Summer's cheeks flushed red.
She elbowed him. lightly. "Let's go already."
Fraser chuckled low in his chest and naturally reached for her hand.
Summer glanced down at their linked fingers, a little dazed.
By the time they arrived, Summer's appointment with the specialist had already
passed.
She frowned in frustration. "You usually drive like a maniac, Why were you crawling along today? I missed the call-in time!"
Fraser glanced lazily at the screen, completely unconcerned. But when he looked
at Summer, he offered a quiet, obedient, "My fault, okay?"
Summer shot him a glare and ignored him.
She pulled out her phone to try and rebook the appointment.
Fraser stepped aside and made a call, voice clipped and direct. "Handle it. Now."
Meanwhile, Summer scrolled through the scheduling app.
The earliest appointment was next Monday.
But she had a meeting that day. Should she cancel it?
Just as she was deep in thought, a long, slender hand reached past her and took
her phone.
Fraser's casual, steady voice followed, "Relax. You'll be seen today. I promise."
Chapter 283
Just as Fraser finished speaking, a group of doctors in white coats rushed out from the back corridor.
Leading them was a middle-aged man in his fifties wearing black-rimmed glasses.
They headed straight for Fraser and Summer.
The hospital director bowed slightly in greeting. "Mr. Graham, we didn't know you
were coming. Apologies for not welcoming you properly."
Fraser's tone was calm and flat. "Get it arranged. I want the best OB-GYN specialist you have."
J'Of course, of course. Everything's already in place. Ms. Summer, if you'll follow them, they'll take care of the checkup. nuta
Summer hadn't expected this.
Fraser had called in a favor that got the hospital director himself to show up.
And now, all eyes were on her.
It was... mortifying.
Fraser gently touched her shoulder. "Don't be nervous. Go on, I'll be waiting outside."
Just like that, Summer was led away by a group of doctors and nurses, surrounded on all sides.
Meanwhile, in a private office-
Fraser sat lazily on the couch, legs crossed, head bowed as he typed on his phone.
The director sat across from him with a polite smile, placing a cup of tea on the table,
"Mr. Graham, our hospital may not be the top in Havenbrook, but in gynecology, we're easily top three. Don't worry-whatever the issue is, we'll take good care of Ms. Summer."
Fraser didn't even look up, fingers still tapping away at his messages.
The director looked slightly awkward but was still thrilled to be meeting someone from the Graham-family. He had to make the most of the opportunity.
"Mr. Graham, as it happens, the city's hospitals are currently being evaluated. We're hoping to upgrade some of our equipment to improve patient care and elevate our rating. If you'd be willing to support us-"
Fraser finished sending the last message, locked his phone, and spun it once in his hand before cutting him off.
She's Fine
The director immediately stood up. "I'll check right now."
He dialed an internal extension. "Yes, how are Ms. Summer's results?...Okay, thank you.
He hung up and smiled ingratiatingly. "All done. Mr. Graham, Ms. Summer's results are perfectly normal."
A flicker of satisfaction passed through Fraser's eyes. He stood up, stretching as
he walked toward the door with unhurried steps.
At the doorway, he paused and glanced back at the director, who stood there hesitantly.
"You were saying something about new equipment?"
The director nodded eagerly. "Yes, exactly!"
Fraser casually tossed out a number. "Then invest... fifty million."
The director's face lit up with sheer joy.
He'd been trying to convince Fraser all this time with no success. And now, with
just one clean bill of health, he'd landed a fifty million investment.
If Summer came here a few more times...
They could replace every single machine in the hospital!
At that moment, Summer stepped out from the exam room.
She spotted Fraser exiting a nearby office.
He handed her a folder with the results. "Wanna take a look?"
Summer took the papers, a little annoyed. How did he get her results before the doctor had even given them to her?
But she didn't have time to worry about that. Her heart raced as she opened the file.
Inside-everything was marked in bold red letters: Normal. Normal. Normal.
Finally, that knot of anxiety in her chest slowly loosened.
She let out a long sigh of relief.
Fraser's fox-like eyes sparkled with amusement. "Told you everything would be fine."
Summer looked up at him. "Thanks... for today."
Fraser raised an eyebrow. "That's it?"
She's Fine
Fraser tilted his head, lips brushing close to her ear. "Stay with me again tonight?"
Summer's ears turned pink. I'm going home. My mom'll start calling if I don't."
That afternoon.
Summer went back to work at Stewart Group.
:
Yvette had just wrapped up a ribbon-cutting ceremony at a nearby luxury store and stopped by afterward.
She walked into Summer's office carrying two cups of bubble tea and smiled. "This is my 1 time visiting you here since you became GM of Stewart Group."
Summer got up and joined her on the couch. "What do you think? Office okay?" Yvette looked around with interest. The space was decorated in a sleek gray- and-white palette- simple and tasteful.
The floor isn't high, but the location is perfect. And the view's not bad either."
The two of them sat chatting on the couch.
Summer picked up a taro bubble tea, stabbed in a straw, and took a big sip. The
rich sweetness immediately satisfied her cravings.
Yvette gave her a look. “You're pregnant-go easy on the sugar."
Chapter 284
Trust Me One More Time
I've been eating healthy ever since I got pregnant. I'm so sick of it," Summer muttered, sipping on her milk tea.
"Sounds like your mom's treating you like national treasure."
Julia had taken full control of Summer's meals-nutritious to a fault. Even at the office, her lunch was delivered straight to her desk.
"You haven't been on set in a while, huh?"
Yvette slouched lazily on the couch. "Nope. That's the life of a female celebrity. I had to drag myself to some dinner with investors last night just to show face."
Summer looked at her, a little worried. "Do you need help?"
"You're pregnant-just focus on staying sane. I can handle this."
Yvette's eyes drifted to the bracelet on Summer's wrist.
"Wait a second. That bracelet-isn't that the one you gave back to Fraser?"
Summer followed her gaze, eyes landing on the glittering sapphire. She let out a small sigh. "I don't know what we are right now."
"What do you mean you don't know?"
Summer looked conflicted. "I don't know if I should trust him again."
Then she looked straight at Yvette.
"If it were you.... what would you do?"
Yvette looked like she wanted to scream. "Girl, I'm not pregnant, and I don't even have a man to get me pregnant! I'm the last person who can give advice right now."
Summer took another long sip of her milk tea.
Yvette thought for a moment.
"Okay, going off TV logic-this is usually the part where the heroine runs off pregnant, and the guy realizes too late and starts chasing after her like crazy."
"You're leaving Havenbrook soon anyway. Go abroad like you planned. See if Fraser drops everything to come find you. If he does, that means you really matter to him."
"Are you serious?" Summer shot her a look.
Trust Me One More Time
Then her tone shifted, serious for once. "Look, I can't tell you what to do when it comes to love. But whatever you decide, I've got your back."
Summer's eyes stung. "Careful. That's the kind of thing that makes me cry. Now you're responsible.
Yvette lightly tapped her forehead.
"Please. If that's all it takes to get you crying, no wonder Fraser can twist you around with a few sweet words."
"I am not twisted around-
"You were saying?"
Yvette leaned in toward Summer's belly and joked, "Hey, baby, what do you think? Should Mommy give Daddy one more chance?"
That night, back at the house.
The dinner table was laid out with fish and tofu soup, stir-fried shrimp and broccoli, seared salmon, five-grain rice, and sautéed loofah with pork.
The smell alone made Summer's stomach growl.
Julia walked out of the kitchen, handing her apron to a housekeeper. "Come eat."
Mother and daughter sat at the table.
Julia ladled out the fish soup and placed it in front of Summer.
During the meal, Julia kept glancing at her meaningfully.
Even if Summer wasn't the most perceptive person, she could tell Julia was holding something
back.
"Mom, is there something you want to say?"
Julia put down her chopsticks, hesitating for a moment before speaking.
"Last night... one of my friends saw Yvette at a five-star hotel."
Summer instantly thought of the excuse she'd used-the thunderstorm, claiming
she was staying at Yvette's.
So that was out the window.
Tulia looked at her. concern creeping into her voice "Summer sk
Trust Me One More Time
Julia frowned. "Was it Mr. Fraser from the Graham family?"
Summer knew she couldn't lie her way through this one. She nodded.
"I knew it. Something's been off with you lately. Why are you getting tangled up with him again?"
"Summer, you already made the decision to leave Havenbrook with me."
"I still am."
"Then why are you with him again? Are you planning not to leave after all?"
Summer shook her head gently.
Julia sighed deeply. Her tone softened but held firm. "If you really want to leave, you have to be
decisive. You need to cut ties with him..
Summer's fingers clenched slightly around her cutlery.
"But if you don't want to leave... and he keeps you hanging like this, while you're pregnant, and the Graham family doesn't say a word-what kind of situation is that?"
"We Stewarts may not be some powerful family, but we still have our dignity."
Julia's frustration mounted, her voice rising.
She couldn't help but think back to the day she'd gone to beg Helen for understanding-and got thrown out instead.
Summer quietly set down her cutlery. Her voice was soft. "He said he'd marry
me."
Julia scoffed. "That old fossil in the Graham family will never agree. And even if you do married, who knows what kind of hell you'd walk into?"
do get
Summer bit her lip hard, then looked up at her mother. "I believe Fraser will protect me."
Chapter 285
One More Time
Julia didn't say anything at first,
Summer blinked, then gently rested her hand on her belly.
"I want to believe him one more time."
48 Pearls
To believe what Fraser had told her. To believe in that look in his eyes-overflowing with warmth and something close to adoration.
Julia's sharp gaze landed squarely on her daughter. Her voice was light but serious. "Are you sure?"
Those two words-I'm sure-circled in Summer's mouth for a long time, but she couldn't bring herself to say them.
Julia finally said, "We haven't left yet. You've got this month to figure it out. If you decide you want to be with him, I'm not some old-fashioned relic-I just want what's best for you. But if he wants to be with you, he needs to do it the right way. Let the Graham family come to our door and propose properly."
With that, Julia stood up and left the room.
Summer took a long shower, then curled up in bed with The Pregnancy Guide open on her lap.
The book hadn't moved past the first page in over half an hour.
Her mind wasn't in it.
Fraser had said he wanted to marry her.
But with Mr. Graham's recent passing, she knew nothing would happen for at least three months.
And she understood what Julia meant. She was worried. She had every right to be.
Her phone suddenly rang.
Summer glanced at the screen and answered.
Fraser's voice came through, hoarse and lazy. "I'm outside your place. Wanna come down?"
Summer blinked. "Why are you here? I told you I was staying home tonight."
"know."
From the driver's seat, Fraser looked up at the faint glow from her second-floor window. "So... are you coming out?"
"No."
One More Time
was to sneak out and see Fraser like some lovesick fool.
Fraser added, "I'm sick."
"Sick? What kind of sick?"
"Not sure. Fever, maybe?"
His tone was casual, but there was something boyishly sulky in it.
"How high?"
"One-oh-two."
Summer could hear the rasp in his voice. Hearing that number made her immediately tense.
"If you've got a fever, why are you outside? Why didn't you go to the hospital? I'm not a doctor."
"I don't want a doctor. I just want to see you."
She wanted to scream.
Why was he like this?
If he couldn't even take care of himself, why should she bother?
Summer hung up. She tossed the book onto the nightstand and turned off the
light, determined to sleep.
But her mind refused to cooperate.
She turned once. Then again. Then again.
Finally, she sat up with a jolt.
Idiot. Absolute idiot.
She threw off the blanket, didn't even bother with slippers, and ran to the window.
Pulling the curtain back slightly, she peered outside.
The bright yellow Lamborghini was still parked out front like it owned the entire street.
The top was down. The car was completely exposed to the cold night air.
Fraser was slouched in the driver's seat, dressed in something casual, his long legs stretched out in front of him. Even from here, he looked infuriatingly effortless. Wild. Reckless.
She couldn't see his face clearly, but it looked like his eyes were closed. The lines of his face were
charn avon in the law light
It was almost winter. The cold cut right through the trees, which stood bare along the street, branches trembling in the wind.
And this man-this idiot-had a fever, was sitting in an open car, and didn't even care?
She grabbed a knit cardigan, threw it on over her pajamas, and slipped on her shoes.
She opened her door as quietly as she could and tiptoed down the stairs.
Just as she reached the bottom-
"Summer, where are you going?"
Julia's voice came from behind her.
Summer turned to see her mom in the hallway with a glass of water in hand.
She forced a smile. "I'm just going for a walk."
"A walk?"
"Yeah. The doctor said walking's good for the baby."
Julia pulled her cardigan tighter. "Walks are fine in warmer weather. If you catch a
cold in this kind of night air, it'll do more harm than good."
She reached out to guide Summer back toward her room.
Summer turned to face her, a little flustered.
"Mom, I..."
"What is it?"
Summer closed her eyes, took a deep breath, and blurted out, "I need to go out.
You don't have to wait up."
Before Julia could stop her, she darted past and ran out the front door.
Chapter 286
Fever and Fire
"Ugh, this girl. What's going on now?"
Julia stepped closer to the window and looked outside.
There was Summer, running straight toward the yellow Lamborghini parked at the
gate.
And sitting inside that Lamborghini was a man Julia instantly recognized.
She shook her head slowly.
Girls really couldn't be kept at home once they grew up.
+B Pearls
She just hoped Fraser could actually take care of Summer-and not let that old witch from the Graham family walk all over her daughter.
Out front, Summer came to a stop a few feet from the car.
Now that she was up close, she could see everything clearly.
Fraser was still slouched in the driver's seat. His face was unusually flushed, eyes closed, lashes casting shadows over his cheeks. The breeze brushed through his hair. Even like this, he looked effortlessly handsome, almost harmless.
The night air was sharp and biting. The pine trees along the road rustled quietly in the wind.
Summer stood there silently, watching him. Her eyes were full of complicated emotion-worry, frustration..... and something gentler she didn't dare name.
After a long pause, she let out a sigh.
Then she took a step forward. And then another.
With every step, she felt something inside her give way.
She was slipping.
Fraser's eyes opened slowly at the sound of her footsteps.
He saw her walking toward him, dressed in soft white sleepwear and a long dark
blue cardigan that fell to mid-thigh. She looked like warmth itself.
A flicker of surprise passed through his eyes. Then he smiled.
Just before she reached him, he reached out and pulled her straight into his lap.
"You really came?"
Fever and Fire
Summer glared at his perfect face. "I'm here to collect your corpse."
Fraser let out a small laugh and buried his face in her neck, inhaling deeply.
"I already belong to you. You can do whatever you want with me."
Summer frowned.
Why did he never take care of himself?
Then his voice came again, muffled and hoarse against her skin. "I missed you."
Summer blinked. "We saw each other this morning
Fraser sounded completely unsatisfied. "That was this morning. It's night now. Six whole hours. Why don't you just move back to Ravenshire Boulevard, hmm?"
She ignored that completely and reached up to feel his forehead.
Burning hot.
"You've got a serious fever. Yo
got a serious fever. You need to go to the hospital."
Fraser didn't move. His face was still tucked into her neck, voice careless. "I'm not dying."
"Fraser!"
Summer snapped.
He looked up, eyes soft, expression almost sheepish. "Fine. Call a doctor to come
to Ravenshire Boulevard. But you're staying with me tonight."
Summer glanced back at her house.
So much for sleeping at home.
When they got back to Ravenshire Boulevard, Summer refused to let Fraser drive.
Sports cars were already different from regular cars-more power, more acceleration.
And this Lamborghini was custom-modified. Even more aggressive.
Summer took the wheel, gripping it tightly, eyes locked on the road.
Fraser leaned back in the passenger seat, watching her like she was the entertainment. His lips curved.
"You look so tense, it's actually more dangerous."
"Don't ralk" Summer muttered "Tuet cit there and raci
The engine roared..
The Lamborghini shot forward like a wild animal loosed from its cage.
The scenery outside the windows blurred, flying by so fast it barely had shape.
Summer's mouth felt dry. Her hands were sweating.
She gripped the wheel tighter.
A few minutes later, Fraser's lazy voice drifted over. "Go ahead. Floor it."
Summer bit her lip. "Are you insane!"
"What? It's not even that fast. There's a red light ahead though.
Fraser opened one eye. "Oh. I thought you were gonna run it. You haven't hit the brakes yet."
Summer didn't respond.
Then her eyes widened-and she slammed her foot on the brake.
Forty minutes later, they arrived at Ravenshire Boulevard.
Summer climbed out of the car, legs shaking. She shot the Lamborghini a vicious glare.
"Idiot car."
Fraser looked at her, eyes filled with amusement. He reached out and ruffled her hair. "You're just not used to it yet. Next time I'll teach you."
"Thanks, but no thanks."
Inside, Summer immediately made him lie down on the bed.
Only then, under proper light, did she notice what she hadn't seen earlier in the dark-
Chapter 287
Fever
The man lying in bed wasn't just flushed-his whole body radiated heat.
Summer had no idea how he was still upright earlier.
She was about to get up when Fraser grabbed her hand.
His brows were slightly furrowed. His voice was hoarse. "Where are you going?"
Summer shot him a look. "Do you even realize how high your fever is right now? It's not 102-I'd say it's closer to 199!"
Fraser let out a dry chuckle, the corners of his lips curving faintly.
"You think that's funny?"
"You're worried about me."
He pulled her hand to his cheek.
The burning heat spread from his skin to her palm, running up her arm, wrapping around her.
"I'm not worried about anything."
She yanked her hand back and stood up, heading into the bathroom.
She grabbed a towel from the rack, soaked it in cold water, wrung it out, and returned to the bedroom.
By the time she came back, Fraser's eyes were closed again, his brows still slightly scrunched in discomfort.
Gone was the usual cocky, laid-back version of him.
Now, he looked vulnerable. And for some reason, that vulnerability made her chest ache.
Summer sat beside him and gently placed the cold towel on his forehead.
Just then, the doorbell rang.
She walked out to open
1. it.
Xavier stood at the door with a medical kit in hand. He froze for half a second
when he saw her but quickly recovered.
"Hey, Summer. We meet again."
She gave a small nod and let him in.
Xavier let out a low whistle. "This guy's built like a bull and never gets sick. Honestly, Summer, this might be a trick to get your sympathy."
Before the words even finished, Fraser's eyes snapped open, sharp and cold.
"You always been this good at reading situations?"
Xavier felt a chill down his spine from that glare.
"Hah... just kidding."
He quickly changed the subject. "Alright, let me check your temperature."
Xavier moved to the bedside, pulled out an ear thermometer, and scanned Fraser. "One hundred and five!"
He gawked. "Holy shit, you're actually burning up."
Fraser shot him a withering look.
But Xavier, seeing him weak and miserable, just smiled like sunshine.
Fraser turned his face away, clearly annoyed. 'Is it contagious?"
Xavier smirked, savoring the rare chance to get back at him. "Fever itself? No. But
in your condition, I'd avoid getting too worked up. Don't forget Summer's pregnant."
Standing nearby, Summer flushed bright red.
"Get out," Fraser said, deadpan.
In the living room, Xavier handed Summer some meds and went over what to watch for.
She listened intently.
"Is that temp dangerous?"
"Mm, probably not.
Then he changed his tone. "But it could be. That's why you need to stay by his side. If it hits one twenty, we've got a real problem."
Summer's eyes widened. That serious?"
Xavier nodded solemnly. "Yeah. Sick people are usually grumpy and needy. You'll need to be extra patient. Just let him have his way for a bit."
She was completely thrown off by how serious he sounded,
Xavier grinned to himself.
That's all I can do for you, man. Hope you're happy-
After he left, Summer poured a cup of warm water and brought it into the room with the meds.
She sat on the edge of the bed. "Time to take your medicine.".
Fraser looked at her with heavy-lidded eyes. "You feed me."
She helped prop him up so he could lean against the headboard, then held the pills and water to his lips.
She wasn't sure if he was doing it on purpose, but when he swallowed, her palm suddenly felt damp.
She looked at him sharply-his face was as calm and innocent as ever.
"Lie back and rest. If you need anything, call me.
"You're not staying?"
Fraser looked at her with soft eyes, his expression laced with just enough pitiful charm.
Summer remembered what Xavier said.
"I'll go get you some more water. Be right back."
She went to the kitchen and refilled the cup with warm water.
When she came back, she placed it on the nightstand beside his bed.
Chapter 288
Her Choice
Summer lifted the covers and carefully lay down on one side of the bed.
The moment she settled in, Fraser's feverish body shifted behind her. His arms wrapped tightly around her, pulling her fully into his embrace.
Pressed against that burning warmth, Summer murmured, "Does anything else hurt?"
Fraser leaned in, lips brushing her car. His voice was low and lazy. "Yeah... down there."
Summer's face flushed instantly, redder than a sunset.
And right away, she felt something unmistakably hard against her from behind.
She swallowed, voice a little shaky. "Dr. Xavier said... your body can't handle that right now!
"He's a quack. I'm fine."
His voice was thick, husky with restraint. "Summer."
"Baby"
Summer bit her lip, stealing a glance over her shoulder. He really did look uncomfortable.
Before she could stop herself, the words were out.
"I can help you. Just this once."
A pause. Then, slowly, she lifted the blanket and slid down.
A few minutes later-
The bedroom filled with the sound of heavy breathing, followed by a muttled, low groan.
The air was thick with heat, laced with something sultry and warm.
The next morning.
Soft light filtered in through the gray curtains, casting a golden haze across the room like sheer
fabric.
Summer was still asleep, but the phone buzzed first.
A well-toned arm reached for it across the bed, veins visible under the skin.
Fraser's voice was low and satisfied. "Hello?"
Fraser's sleepiness faded. He leaned against the headboard, shirtless, abs chiseled like sculpture..
Summer lay across his legs, curled up.
His gaze dropped to her, soft and dark, one hand stroking her hair as he gave instructions into the phone. "Book it."
He hung up.
Summer stirred.
She instinctively snuggled closer, wrapping her arms tighter around his waist.
Fraser raised a brow, amused by the unexpected clinginess.
Something's different, he thought. Since yesterday... something changed.
But he couldn't put his finger on what.
Summer blinked awake slowly.
She met his eyes-deep and steady, filled with emotion that rolled like ocean waves.
She reached up, placing a hand on his forehead.
The heat was gone,
Her shoulders relaxed in relief.
Fraser caught her hand and kissed it. "Your doing."
His voice carried second meaning.
Summer's face turned crimson as memories from last night rushed back.
The embarrassment hit like a wave, painting her cheeks pink. Her eyes shimmered faintly in the morning light.
Last night had been... her first time doing something like that.
Fraser took one look at her shy expression and couldn't help himself. He shifted on top of her, arms braced on either side.
His gaze didn't waver. His voice was low, dangerous. "Next time, it's my turn." Summer couldn't take it anymore.
She reached up and slapped a hand over his mouth. "Don't say another word!"
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His tone turned serious. "Summer, I'm heading out on a trip. When I'm back, I want to visit your
mom."
She blinked, unsure what he meant.
Fraser's eyes locked on hers, full of certainty and something gentler.
"What kind of wedding do you want?"
"Whatever it is, I'll make it happen. Anything you want. Okay?"
For some reason, her eyes burned.
Maybe this was it.
The start of something new. A chapter that finally belonged to her-completely.
Her family. Her life.
Later that morning, Fraser had to leave the country for an urgent matter at one of his overseas branches.
The private jet had already filed its flight plan.
Summer had meetings at work, so she didn't go with him to the airport.
But right before takeoff, her phone buzzed.
Baby, wait for me.
She stared at the message, lips curving into a smile.
At the Graham family estate-
The atmosphere was as strict and rigid as always. The guards were in place. The
halls silent.
In the grand sitting room, Madam Graham sat at the head of the table.
A servant was making tea off to the side.
Suddenly, the housekeeper stepped in. “Ma'am, someone named Miss Sienna is
here asking for you.
Helen took a sip of her tea, calmly set the cup down.
Chapter 289
"She says she used to be Summer's friend and has a proposal. She claims once you hear it, you'll agree."
"Oh?"
Helen narrowed her eyes, a sharp smile curling across her face.
"Let her in."
Sienna walked in dressed head-to-toe in black. Black coat, black pants, black sunglasses. Even her silk scarf, wrapped tightly around her face, was black. Not a single detail out of place.
She followed the housekeeper down the long hall, one step at a time, into the Graham family's grand sitting room.
The space was massive, lined with dozens of servants posted at every entrance. The air was thick with solemn authority, the kind that made people instinctively stand taller.
Sienna finally faced the woman seated at the center-elegant, commanding, untouchable.
She removed her sunglasses and scarf, bowed politely, and said, “Ma'am.”
Helen lifted her gaze slowly and gave her a cold once-over.
"What do you want?"
Sienna smiled-just slightly.
"Madam Graham, you and I share a common enemy."
Helen didn't answer. Her eyes were razor sharp.
"Oh?" she said after a moment. "And what do you propose?"
There was something wild in Sienna's eyes. Unstable. Consumed.
"I need your help. If you back me, I can remove Summer from Mr. Graham's life
for good. You'll never have to deal with her again."
Helen didn't respond right away. Her eyes flicked to the butler.
He understood instantly and quietly dismissed the servants from the room.
Helen gave a calm, pleasant smile and beckoned with one hand.
"I do enjoy clever women. Come closer."
She stepped forward and leaned in, whispering her entire plan into Helen's ear.
When she finished, she stepped back.
"Whether it works or not, all I ask is that you give me enough money to disappear. Me and my family."
Since the failed setup with Philip, everything had fallen apart. She'd gone through all that trouble only for Summer to be rescued.
Now Philip's men were after her. So were Fraser's.
She was barely surviving-hiding, running, fearing for her life.
She never imagined she'd end up like this. Hunted. Desperate. Powerless.
Fine.
If she was going down, she'd make sure everyone else went with her.
At Stewart Group, inside the conference room, Summer was in the middle of a quarterly budget meeting with senior executives when Winston knocked on the door.
The discussion paused.
Summer looked over. "What is it? We're in the middle of something."
Winston looked uneasy. "Ms. Summer... the company's official site is blowing up.” "What happened?"
With everyone watching. Winston hesitated, then walked in and handed her his phone. "You should see this.
Around the room, others began checking their phones, murmuring under their breath.
Summer opened the site-and froze.
Every headline was about her.
"Shocking: Stewart Group heiress is pregnant!"
"CEO of Stewart Group caught sleeping with married Dale Group exec Philip!"
"Heiress's unborn child allegedly fathered by Philip!"
"Stewart Group in disgrace! CEO's lifestyle under fire!"
ed Promite
The first was her missing prenatal report-clear, with her name visible and the words "father unknowned right across it
The second was gray bonell surveillance footage-one frame of her entering a hotel room. another of Philip walking in afterward.
The internet had mumed against her. The company's reputation, and hers, were being dragged through the mid
One of the department beads stood up, furious
"This is a complete he! There's my way Ms. Summer is pregnant!"
Several others spoke up in agreementit.
"She's not even married. This is clearly a smear campaign from a rival!"
But then someone near the back bestand, hem said. "But... the report has her
name on it. And the photo is clearly her. That's not easy to file
That single sentence sucked all the air from the room,
Every pair of eyes turned toward Summer
She had always known her pregnancy might cause problems
But this? This narrative-affairs, broken marriages, rumors of a love child-this
wasn't just an exposure. It was character assassination.
Someone had set this up.
She pulled herself together, pushed every emotion back down, and wood
*I'll give you all a proper explanation," she said clearly. "Haynes from PR-gieuse meet me in my
office."
Chapter 290
After saying that, Summer walked out of the conference room.
The executives looked around at each other.
"What the hell is going on?"
"Why didn't Ms. Summer deny it?
+B Pearls
"Does that mean the pregnancy is real? And the stuff about her and that married man Philip is true too? Are we even supposed to keep running Stewart Group's stores after this?"
"She said she'd give us an explanation. Don't jump to conclusions."
All across the Stewart Group offices, whispers filled the halls.
"Ms. Summer's really pregnant? Must be three or four months by now, but her figure's still so slim -can't even tell."
"That's not the point. The point is: who's the father? People online are saying it's Philip. That guy's in his forties, looks creepy as hell, and he's married with kids. He doesn't deserve someone like Ms. Summer.
"If that's true, and she really broke up someone's family? Our whole company's reputation is
toastTM
Just then, the conference room door opened.
Everyone immediately stopped gossiping and returned to their desks like nothing had happened.
Summer walked past, but then paused. She turned around and looked at them.
"If gossip helps boost your performance, be my guest. If not, then starting today, I don't want to hear a single rumor in this company
Back in her office, Summer sat down with her brows tightly furrowed.
Haynes, the PR director, was someone she'd worked closely with back when they were both just employees. They'd been good colleagues, and now Haynes was the company's crisis-handling
expert.
That's why Summer had asked her to come in.
Haynes gave Summer a brief glance-just a flick toward her stomach before looking away. Her
tona unc direct
"Ms. Summer, I need to ask you two things. You have to be honest, or I can't manage this crisis properly."
Summer didn't even let her finish the question.
Tm pregnant," she said calmly. "But the baby has nothing to do with Philip" Haynes steadied herself and immediately started thinking through the situation. "This kind of massive public attack-it had to come from someone with real power. Someone influential someone ruthless. I think you already know who it might be. Summer said nothing,
"But for now" Haynes continued, "our top priority is dealing with this scandal. If we don't, public pressure will bury Stewart Group."
Summer leaned back in her chair and looked out the window, her expression sharp and focused
"I know."
glanced at her phone.
Fraser was out of the country
And someone had taken the chance to make their move.
That prenatal report had gone missing the day she ran into Sienna. And the hotel incident― Sienna had set it up tried to send her right into Philip's hands.
So Sienna was definitely behind this
But Sienna didn't have the money or the influence to pull off something this massive. Which meant she'd found someone who did.
There was only one person who made sense
Helen Graham.
Haynes, meanwhile, was quietly relieved
She'd been bracing for the worst-that the baby really was Philip's.
If that had been true, there'd be no salvaging Summer's image. She would've been branded a homewrecker for life, and nothing could've spun that clean "Since it's not Philip." Haynes said, "then here's the best option hold a press conference. Announce the engagement. Let the child's father speak for you publicly"
She looked at Summer.
Summer thought for a moment.
"Set up
the press conference. I'll take care of the rest.
After Haynes left, Summer moved to the sofa and sat down, feeling suddenly
tired.
She picked up her phone, hesitated for a second, then got ready to call Fraser.
Before she could, Lucas's name lit
She answered. "Mr. Lucas"
up on the screen.
Lucas's voice came through the line, calm and warm as ever.
I saw the rumors online. Is there anything I can do?"
"I can handle it myself," she said.
"I was there at the hotel that night. If you need a witness, I can testify."
Summer didn't respond.
He would be a strong witness. But ever since she found out how he felt about her, she didn't want to lean on him too much.
"Please don't shut me out," Lucas said gently. "Let me help. We're friends, aren't we?"
Summer paused.
"Then I'll ask you this. Can you check if the hotel surveillance still has footage from that night? 1 know there's a good chance it's already been wiped."
"I'll take care of it," he said.
She was about to hang up when Lucas added, "Summer?"
"Yeah?"