Ch. 31..40
Chapter 31
A Surprising Investment
The man seemed to eagerly anticipate her typing something extraordinary into the notes.
Summer slowly typed "Fra..."
Suddenly, she felt the air around her chill by a few degrees.
She immediately backspaced.
Instead, she wrote "Pudding's Dad."
Fraser Graham glanced at the remark.
His previously cool gaze gradually warmed and brightened.
Free Coins
He curled his lips into a slight smile, picked up his phone, and, under Summer's watchful eyes, changed her WhatsApp contact name to "Pudding's Mom."
Summer sensed something odd.
"This doesn't seem quite right," she said.
She had only met Pudding today.
Meanwhile, Fraser had been raising Pudding for 13 years.
"The dog thinks of you as Mom. If I don't remark it like this, it'll get angry," Fraser replies.
Summer was speechless and thought, Alright. He really had Pudding's best interests at heart.
After updating the remark, Fraser also pinned Summer's WhatsApp to the top of his list.
Summer blinked.
"Will this be inconvenient for you?" she asked.
Fraser's WhatsApp must have been worth a fortune, yet he had pinned her at the top.
And if she wasn't mistaken, hers was the only name pinned.
"It's a courtesy." Fraser's voice was low and alluring.
Summer understood, this was Mr. Graham's business etiquette.
"I've arrived, I'll head home now," she said.
"Summer." Fraser calls.
"Hmm?" As Summer stepped out of the car, she heard her name and turned back.
Fraser's dark eyes locked onto her deeply. He ruffled her hair, his voice soft like a summer breeze brushing past her ear.
"Good night." Fraser said.
Fraser thought, Good night, Summer. For a long time, I've wanted to say good night to you. Every night.
The next day, at Stewart Group.
Jasper received a massive surprise and was brimming with excitement.
Graham Group was investing 1 billion dollars in their Global Plan, Doubled! Doubled!
It was truly a windfall.
Jasper strode excitedly to the assistant department.
"Jim." Jasper calls.
Jim, Jasper's top assistant, stood up. "Chairman, what can I do for you?" Jim said.
"Quickly call Margaret to the company, we'll sign the contract with Graham Group soon." Jasper said.
Jasper recalled that this investment from Graham Group had been secured by Margaret.
Jasper thought, This daughter hadn't been raised in vain. I had underestimated her this time. Fraser had actually invested 1 billion dollars in one go! Men understood men best. Perhaps there was a deeper meaning, maybe Fraser was genuinely interested in Margaret. If Margaret truly climbed this big tree and married into the Graham family, then I'd become the father-in-law of Havenbrook's Bossman. The Stewart family could then strut through Havenbrook unchallenged. Stewart Group's asset value would skyrocket.
With this thought, Jasper's mouth curved upward like an AK rifle, uncontainable.
It felt as though Stewart Group would hit the Forbes list in the next moment.
When Margaret received the call and heard that Fraser had invested in Stewart Group, she couldn't believe it.
She distinctly remembered Fraser showing little interest in the project that day. Margaret thought, Why had he suddenly invested, and doubled it?
"Are you sure Graham Group invested in us?" Margaret confirmed again. Jim, smooth as ever in his high-ranking position, flattered her over the phone. "It's true! Even the chairman says it's thanks to you that Stewart Group secured this investment. He said Ms. Margaret did an excellent job this time, you've got real talent. Mr. Stewart's impressed." Jim said.
"Not just the chairman, the whole company's proud of you. If you join us, with your skills and hard work, you'll outshine Summer. Stewart Group's future prosperity will rest on you." Jim added.
Margaret's head floated high from the praise.
Margaret thought, Perhaps Fraser had been won over by my beauty and sincerity.
"Okay, I'll head to the company right away." Margaret replied.
After hanging up, Margaret rummaged through her wardrobe and settled on a
bright red velvet dress with a deep V-neck and a floor-length, lotus-leaf skirt.
Margaret thought, It had been custom-made in France, costing me 400 thousand dollars, a full month's allowance. I'd saved it for important occasions. I received 400 thousand dollars in monthly pocket money. Compared to Summer's
14 thousand monthly salary, it was a fortune. But so what? My standard of living had always been leagues above Summer's. When Summer was brought into the family, I had dug into her past. It turned out her family had lived on just 400 dollars a month. I spent more than that on a single meal.
So when Yolanda saw her, tears streaming down her face, calling her name and saying how much she'd missed her, Margaret found the old woman repulsive and even slapped her.
Chapter 32
A Grand Misunderstanding
She didn't have such a poor mother.
But 400 thousand dollars in pocket money wasn't enough for Margaret.
She had accumulated some debts outside.
That's why she wanted to join Stewart Group and claim some shares.
Margaret slipped into the red velvet dress and twirled before the full-length mirror.
Even she was stunned by her own beauty.
She was gorgeous!
Margaret thought, No wonder Fraser had taken a liking to me.
Thinking of Fraser, Margaret's heart raced.
She really adored handsome, powerful men.
Glancing at the clock, she flung open her bedroom door and rushed out, colliding with Julia, who had just returned.
"Ouch, Margaret, why the hurry? And why are you dressed so stunningly?" Julia said.
Margaret gleefully hugged Julia.
"Mom, your daughter's amazing! Fraser invested 1 billion dollars in Stewart Group for me! He must fancy me, you're about to have a new son-in-law." Margaret said.
Julia tilted her head. "Really? You mean the Graham family in Havenbrook, that Bossman Fraser Graham?" Julia asked.
"It's true! Dad even asked me to come to the company to sign the contract with him. After signing, he'll reward me with shares. How could it be fake?" Margaret said.
Julia had been skeptical, but since Jasper had called directly, it must have been real.
"Oh, Margaret, you're truly Mom's pride." Julia said.
Margaret beamed with confidence.
"Mom, I told you I'm better than Summer, more thoughtful, too. See, I'm the one who really cares about our Stewart family."
Julia knew Margaret had always resented Summer.
Julia thought, one was the daughter I'd raised for 20 years, the other was my biological child.
Honestly, she loved both.
But today, Margaret was elated, and Julia didn't want to spoil it.
"Margaret, you've always been the one Mom loves most. Wait here, Mom will change, and we'll go to the A Grand Misunderstanding
company together." Julia said as she smiled.
Summer walked into the company.
The employees buzzed with activity, as if celebrating a major event.
Summer stopped a colleague from the planning department.
"What's everyone busy with, setting up a venue? What's going on?" Summer asked.
The intern, unaware of Stewart Group's internal rivalries, replied, “Ms. Stewart, Graham Group agreed to invest in our Global Plan, and Mr. Stewart's holding a banquet meeting."
Summer thought, They secured the investment? Graham Group moved that fast?
"Why didn't I get a notice?" Summer pondered.
"Huh?" The intern's eyes widened.
On reflection, it seemed Ms. Stewart wasn't on the meeting list.
She whispered, "It looks like this meeting is mainly to sign the contract with
Graham Group and commend Ms. Margaret."
Realizing her slip, the intern grew awkward and wanted to flee.
Summer narrowed her eyes, sensing something amiss.
"Why is Graham Group's investment commending Margaret?"
The intern stammered.
Suddenly.
"Because I secured the investment for the Global Plan."
A loud, haughty voice and the clack of heels echoed behind her.
Summer turned to see Margaret strutting in from the lobby, arm in arm with Julia. Both wore dazzling evening gowns, as if attending a gala.
They stood out starkly in the Stewart building.
"Dad probably didn't invite you to the meeting because he didn't want you upset, or maybe he thinks you're unimportant," Margaret said sharply, her tone dripping with mockery.
Her words implied Summer had contributed nothing to the Global Plan and had been sidelined by Jasper.
The bustling employees paused, turning to watch.
Summer pieced together Margaret's and the intern's words.
It clicked, Graham Group had invested in the Global Plan today, and Jasper likely
assumed Margaret had
secured it. A Grand Misunderstanding
Hence, this meeting.
Summer's expression remained calm. "Are you sure Graham Group's investment
is your doing?" she asked evenly
Margaret frowned and snapped, "What's that supposed to mean?"
She'd felt a twinge of guilt, but Summer's question ignited her temper like a provoked rooster.
"Literally what I said. If you don't get it, maybe brush up on your English back at school."
Margaret's lips curled into a contemptuous smirk.
"Summer, I know you're jealous that I landed Graham Group's investment while
your Trevor showed no interest. Don't be upset, we're all working for the Stewart family's good. I'll even tell Dad you tried your best this time."
Chapter 33
Summer's voice stayed flat. "Margaret, do I need your help?"
"Summer, why are you so spiteful? Last time you yanked my necklace, and now you're mocking me. We're sisters, after all. Even if you hate me, can't we get along for Mom and Dad's sake? Just because I'm better than you, you can't stand me?" Margaret said.
"Mom, look at Summer, always bullying me like this. I happily secured investment for the family,
and she's so devious, doubting me."
Margaret shook Julia's arm as she spoke.
Summer watched, dumbfounded.
She'd only asked if Margaret was sure about the investment.
Before she could elaborate, Margaret had flipped the script.
Now, Summer seemed like the troublemaker.
Sadly, Julia always fell for it.
Julia frowned and leapt to Margaret's defense.
"Summer, stop being so unreasonable to Margaret. Mom knows you're upset, but this is her achievement. It's your fault for not trying harder. You didn't even apologize to Trevor. Think you're too good for that? Keep this up, and you'll drive him away." Julia said.
-A growing crowd formed a small circle around them.
Gossipy employees whispered.
"Looks like Margaret's 80% likely to be Stewart Group's future head."
"Obviously. Three years ago, Summer started as an ordinary employee like us. But Margaret's first day screamed 'I'm the Stewart heiress. That confidence comes from Mr. Stewart and Mrs. Stewart."
"True. She snagged Graham Group's investment this time. I hear she's joining the company, Mr. Stewart's making her a director."
Summer's face betrayed no emotion, but her heart grew colder.
In the past, she'd been proud and aloof.
Whenever she clashed with Margaret and saw Julia blindly favor her, Summer would scoff, turn, and leave.
She'd tell herself she didn't care if Julia preferred Margaret.
She didn't need Julia's love. She just refused to stoop to their level.
But deep down, it stung. Her pride wouldn't let her bend.
Over time, Julia always sided with Margaret, assuming Summer was antagonizing her.
Now, Summer realized pride was useless. Walking away looked cool but fixed nothing.
It only emboldened Margaret. This time, she'd make Margaret pay.
Meanwhile, the meeting venue was ready.
Jim, alerted to Margaret's imminent arrival, descended from the GM's office to greet her.
He hadn't expected to walk into this drama in the lobby.
After a moment's thought, he wove through the crowd and addressed Julia first.
"Mrs. Stewart, the meeting's about to start. Why don't you and Ms. Margaret head in?"
Julia glanced at Summer, shook her head, and hummed assent.
Margaret linked arms with Julia, brushed past Summer, deliberately bumping her shoulder, and strutted inside.
Jim dispersed the onlookers. "Break it up, don't you have work to do?"
He turned to leave.
"Jim."
Jim spun around with a grin, facing Summer.
"Ms. Stewart, anything I can do for you?"
Summer raised an eyebrow lazily. "Jim, you're quite capable, no wonder you're Stewart Group's senior assistant."
"Heh, you flatter me, Ms. Stewart. Why not join us in the venue?"
Jim wiped his brow.
He hadn't planned to invite Summer.
But her light words carried a subtle edge, making refusal tricky.
Summer's cool gaze swept over him, as if indulging him, and she clicked her heels toward the venue.
Before entering the banquet hall, she pulled out her phone, opened her pinned WhatsApp, and sent a
message.
Moments later, her lips curved into a wicked smirk, and she sauntered in.
The banquet meeting was held in Stewart Group's 7th-floor hall, typically reserved for press conferences or VIP guests.
Today, it was adorned lavishly, huge screens, a speech stage, and dozens of tables for Stewart's executives and partners.
Chapter 34
Reporters from Havenbrook lined the sides with cameras.
Clearly, Jasper aimed to leverage Graham Group's investment to kick off the Global Plan with a bang.
Summer's lips twitched as she walked straight to Margaret's table and sat.
Margaret scowled. "How'd you get in?"
"What, not welcome to celebrate your big day?" Summer replied, setting her phone on the table.
Margaret didn't buy Summer's goodwill. "You'd better be here to celebrate, not to stir trouble."
Julia coughed. "Enough, both of you. It's an important day, your father's speaking."
Margaret fell silent.
The host handed Jasper the microphone.
He stood at the podium, speaking confidently.
"Thanks to Graham Group's 1 billion investment, our Global Plan can launch smoothly. Thank you to Graham Group and Mr. Graham for partnering with us."
The crowd gasped.
"I billion dollars, Graham Group's loaded!"
"Of course. You think
their assets have mu..,,rook's top family title is a joke? Since Bossman returned three years ago,
their assets have multiplied who knows how many times."
"Bossman is incredible. Is he here today?"
"Hmph, 1 billion's a big deal to you, but it's pocket change to him. Today's rep is Ms. Delia, Graham Group's investment director, the 'she-devil' of the investment world."
Jasper cleared his throat. "Now, please welcome Graham Group's investment director, Ms. Delia, to sign the contract with us."
Cameras swiveled to Delia, seated at the head table below the stage.
A well-preserved middle-aged woman, Delia had no visible wrinkles.
. Her neat, short hair was tucked behind her ears, accented by smoky pearl earrings, and she wore a gray
suit, radiating mature professionalism.
Delia flashed a polished smile and waved to the media and crowd.
As she prepared to ascend the stage for Graham Group, her phone buzzed. She glanced at it and blinked. It was Fraser!
Delia thought, He typically only finalized investment targets and amounts, leaving details to others. Investing in Stewart Group's Global Plan had been his sudden call. The investment team hadn't been involved. It was already special treatment. What merit did Stewart Group have to catch Mr. Graham's eye?
Ignoring the waiting staff and audience, Delia answered. "Mr. Graham, hello. What can I do for you?"
The man said a few brief words.
"Okay, okay, Mr. Graham, I understand." Delia replied.
Hanging up, Delia strolled onto the stage.
Jasper shook her hand.
"Thank you so much for Graham Group's investment today. Please tell Mr. Graham our Global Plan won't let him down."
Delia smiled cryptically. "Mr. Stewart, if you're thanking anyone, thank Ms. Stewart."
Assuming she meant Margaret, Jasper nodded.
"Ms. Delia's right. My daughter worked hard to secure this investment. I plan to transfer 10% of Stewart Group's shares to her once the contract's signed." Jasper said.
Staff brought the contract onstage.
Under the cameras, the 1 billion figures shone brightly.
Per protocol, Jaser and Delia would sign before posing for photos.
As Jasper grabbed the pen, Delia interjected, "Wait!"
The hall fell silent.
Jasper looked up, puzzled and he thought to himself. Had Graham Group backed out? The 1 billion wasn't slipping away, was it?
He swallowed, asked. "Ms. Delia, is something wrong with the contract?"
Delia smiled faintly. "Call Ms. Stewart up to sign. Mr. Graham said this investment
is for her sake, so she should represent Stewart Group."
Jasper's racing heart eased.
No reversal, thank goodness.
He'd thought it was serious.
"Of course, of course, I'll call my daughter up to sign on Stewart Group's behalf."
"Jim, get Margaret up here to sign with Graham Group."
Chapter 35
The Truth Unveiled
Margaret, seated nearby, had a clear view of the stage.
Signing under everyone's gaze?
She'd be on Havenbrook's trending list tomorrow.
Thrilled, she tossed off her red shawl, revealing her deep V-neck, and lifted her skirt like a proud princess.
"Mom, I'm going up to sign for Stewart Group." Margaret said proudly.
Julia's smile widened. "Go, go! Mom will snap photos from below. You're my pride"
Seeing Summer lounging with crossed arms and a half-smile.
Margaret sneered. "Summer, jealousy twists people, just like you right now."
With that, she sashayed onto the stage like a peacock fanning its tail.
Jasper watched her approach, his stern face softening as he nodded.
Margaret took the pen and, under the spotlight, signed "Margaret Stewart" in the Party B section.
Camera flashes tracked her every move.
Delia, unfamiliar with Summer's appearance, assumed Margaret, Jasper's daughter, was her.
After Margaret signed, Delia took the pen from the staff.
She prepared to sign for Graham Group in the Party A section, sealing the 1 billion dollars deal.
Before writing, she habitually skimmed the contract.
The name was wrong.
She double-checked.
Party B read "Margaret Stewart," not Summer!
Good thing she hadn't signed, her 20-year career would've been toast.
She tossed the pen aside, her face stern and asked. "Why isn't this Summer's signature?"
The hall's tension spiked again.
Jasper frowned in confusion.
Why was Summer suddenly involved?
"Ms. Delia, didn't you ask for Ms. Stewart to sign? That's my daughter Margaret Stewart."
Margaret's unease surged, her palms sweating.
Delia smirked. "You're mistaken. This investment came through Ms. Stewart. Mr.
Graham invested 1 billion because of Summer, not some Margaret."
The Truth Unveiled
The room erupted. Whispers buzzed below.
"So it wasn't Margaret who got the investment, it was Summer."
"She took credit for it? Shameless."
"That's her style, she even took Summer's parents and clung to the Stewart family."
"Scary woman. Poor Summer!"
Reporters sensed a scoop, their cameras flashing furiously.
Margaret's eyes stung from the lights, humiliation washing over her like she'd been stripped bare.
Unwilling to accept the twist, she fought back. "Ms. Delia, are you confused? It was me who met Fraser that day. I secured this investment. How dare you lie!"
Delia replied icily, "A 1 billion dollars investment, I don't make mistakes. I'll only sign with Summer."
Margaret panicked. "Dad, don't listen to her! Maybe Summer bribed her. I'll call Mr. Graham myself, talking to him will clear this up."
She reached for her phone, then froze, she didn't have Fraser's number.
Delia's patience waned.
"It seems Ms. Margaret doubts my integrity. Mr. Stewart, if Ms. Stewart doesn't
sign for Stewart Group today,
raham Group can't provide the 1 billion."
Jasper felt his dignity sink into the Pacific.
He regretted this grand ceremony. Hundreds of eyes bore into him.
After 30 years in business, he barely kept from fainting with rage.
His face darkened as he hissed, "Margaret, you've shamed the Stewart family
enough today. Not embarrassed yet? Get off the stage!"
Margaret caught the disappointment in his tone.
He'd told her to get off...
Jasper had never been so harsh with her before.
Chapter 36
Margaret felt like the world was spinning. She bit her lip hard, her teeth pressing against her bright red lips.
Just moments ago, she had been so proud. Now, she had never felt more humiliated.
Unwilling to accept defeat, Margaret reached out to grab Jasper's arm. “Dad, I was the one who secured the investment'
Jasper frowned and ignored her, lowering his voice. "Get off the stage. Stop embarrassing yourself."
Margaret had no choice. Clenching her fists, she stomped back to her seat, her high heels clicking sharply against the floor, her face filled with resentment.
She grabbed her purse, shot Summer a glare filled with hatred, and then stormed out of the banquet hall, her eyes red with frustration.
Julia watched Margaret's retreating figure.
For the first time, she didn't run after her.
Making a scene like this in public... The Stewart family had become a laughingstock.
Just thinking about tomorrow's headlines made Julia's head pound. There was no way she had the energy to deal with Margaret's tantrum right now.
Jasper took a deep breath, forcing himself to remain composed as he addressed the audience and Delia.
"The earlier misunderstanding was an internal mistake at Stewart Group. Both Margaret and Summer are my daughters, and either of them is fully capable of representing Stewart Group. Ms. Delia, I'll have Summer come up now to sign the contract with you."
Jasper turned to Jim and ordered coldly, "What are you waiting for? Go get her."
Standing off to the side, Jim felt a chill run down his spine.
He never saw this coming-Summer was the real ace in the hole.
Had I unknowingly offended her today?
He had even personally invited her to attend the banquet meeting earlier...
Jim quickly made his way to Summer's table, lowering his stance, his attitude noticeably humble.
"Ms. Stewart, Mr. Stewart has asked you to go up and sign the contract with Graham Group on behalf of Stewart Group."
Hearing this, Summer remained indifferent. She took a small sip of champagne and smiled, but there was no warmth in her eyes.
"Dad didn't even want me at this banquet, but now he suddenly needs me?"
"It was just a misunderstanding, Ms. Stewart. Right now, we need to focus on the bigger picture."
Summer lifted her gaze slightly. Her voice was soft yet firm. "A misunderstanding? Jim, do you really believe that?"
Jim was at a loss. He glanced towards Julia, subtly signaling for her to step in and help.
Julia cleared her throat.
Realizing that she had just misunderstood Summer earlier, Julia hesitated.
?
She also knew Summer's temper lately-stepping in to persuade her now would
be like walking straight into the fire.
But she had no choice. A billion-dollar investment was on the line.
That was real money.
Forcing a smile, Julia tried a coaxing tone. "Summer, the Stewart family needs you. Don't be stubborn now, sweetheart. Just go up and sign the contract."
Summer glanced at Julia's pleading expression.
Well, this was a rare sight.
Summer, feigning a touch of sadness, deliberately let a hint of disappointment show on her face.
"Mom, that's not what you said earlier. You told me I was incompetent, that I'd never be as good as Margaret. You said I was just trying to go against her on purpose. You even told me not to be rude to Margaret. But now, hearing you say this, I feel so sad. Then again, this isn't the first time. Margaret has always been your favorite. And me? I'm just the extra, the one nobody cares about. Every time I argue with Margaret, you always take her side."
Julia's head throbbed. She cut Summer off before she could drag it out any longer. "Alright, alright—I'm sorry, okay? From now on, I promise to be fair. I won't take my frustrations out on you anymore. Just this once, can you let it go?"
Summer felt a wave of satisfaction.
Julia had always carried herself like a proud, high-society woman-sometimes even with a sharp, almost domineering edge.
Hearing her apologize? Now that was a first.
Sensing the tension had eased slightly, Jim quickly jumped in. "Ms. Stewart, why don't you come up and sign the contract now?"
Summer's gaze remained cold as she looked towards the stage, where Jasper stood, anxious and embarrassed. She took her time before casually uttering two words.
"Not going."
The moment Julia heard Summer refuse, a sharp headache set in-her stress levels were through the roof. But she took a deep breath, forcing herself to stay composed.
"Summer, just tell us-what do you want? What will it take for you to sign the contract? If it's within our power, we'll make it happen."
Summer turned to Jim. "Jim, tell my father I'll go up and sign the contract in exchange for 30% of Stewart Group's shares. Ten percent was already promised
to me if I secured the investment, and the other twenty percent is for the stress and nonsense I've had to deal with tonight."
Julia sucked in a sharp breath.
Most people wouldn't understand just how much 30% of Stewart Group was worth.
But she knew exactly what it meant.
It would make Summer the second-largest shareholder, right after Jasper, giving
her real power over the company's decisions.
This wasn't just some casual request.
But there was no way around it.
Graham Group had made it clear-they wouldn't release the 1-billion-dollar
investment unless Summer was the one to sign the contract.
Chapter 37
Julia studied Summer carefully, her sharp gaze scanning her daughter from head
to toe.
Something about her felt different lately.
She was sharper, more calculating-so much so that she had even managed to outmaneuver her own
parents.
On stage, Jasper's expression darkened as Jim returned alone, while Summer remained seated at her table.
His voice was laced with anger. "Where is she? Why didn't you bring her up?"
Jim felt a headache coming on.
For the first time, he felt completely helpless in his role as an assistant.
He took a deep breath and said it all in one go. "Mr. Stewart, Ms. Stewart said... she'll only sign the contract if she gets 30% of Stewart Group's shares."
Jasper clenched his jaw, his teeth grinding in frustration.
This girl was outright taking advantage of the situation!
Delia overheard the conversation. While this was a private matter within the Stewart family, she knew that Mr. Fraser had specifically insisted that the investment be tied to Summer.
Having worked her way up to a high-level position, Delia was no fool-she instantly understood what was going on.
Delia, feigning innocence, asked casually, "Mr. Stewart, is Summer coming or not? Are we moving forward with this contract?”
Thirty percent of the shares or a billion-dollar investment-what was the choice?
Jasper closed his eyes briefly, inhaling deeply as if trying to suppress the pain of his decision.
Through gritted teeth, he gave Jim the order in a low voice. "Go get Summer to sign the contract."
Jim hesitated, then cautiously asked, "And... the 30% shares?"
Jasper shot him a deadly glare. "Give it to her! Tell her she can have it!"
Jim wiped the sweat off his forehead.
Why was I the one getting yelled at? It's not like I was the one asking for shares...
As soon as Summer heard Jasper agree, she knew when to stop pushing. Without wasting any more time, she made her way up to sign the contract. As soon as her pen lifted from the page, applause erupted from the crowd. Delia couldn't help but take a closer look at the young woman in front of her. She was young, dressed in a nude-colored blouse and a sleek skirt that highlighted her graceful figure. Her
dark hair was neatly swept up, drawing attention to a striking face-radiant, delicate, and effortlessly captivating. With flawless fair skin and refined features, she had the kind of beauty that was impossible to ignore.
She wasn't just pretty-she was the kind of woman who turned heads the moment she walked into a room.
So, this was the woman Fraser was personally backing.
Of course, the Global Plan project had great potential, with impressive projected profits.
But Graham Group's investment division had no shortage of high-return opportunities.
There was no real reason for them to invest 1 billion dollars in Stewart Group, especially when the Global Plan only required 500 million dollars in funding.
Yet Fraser had doubled the amount without a second thought.
This woman was clearly not ordinary.
Delia's demeanor shifted entirely.
She extended her hand towards Summer, her tone now polite-even a little deferential. "Ms. Stewart, it's a pleasure to work with you."
Summer reached out and shook her hand, her expression poised and calm. "Thank you, Ms. Delia."
Meanwhile...
Trevor had just returned from a business trip after being away for a few days. Andrew was driving the company car to pick him up from the airport.
The moment Trevor got into the car, his long fingers casually flipped through a contract-The Larson Group's investment agreement for Stewart Group's Global
Plan.
His voice was unreadable as he asked, "Did Summer come looking for me?" Andrew stiffened, momentarily thrown off by the question, nearly missing the brake and almost running a red light.
It wasn't until this morning that he found out Stewart Group had secured a one-
billion-dollar investment from Graham Group.
Swallowing hard, Andrew hesitated. "Summer... uh, well..."
Trevor's voice turned cold. "Spit it out."
A shiver ran down Andrew's spine. "Stewart Group already secured the Global Plan investment. She... probably won't be coming."
Trevor clenched the small jewelry box in his hand, his brows furrowing sharply.
"Impossible. Five hundred million dollars isn't pocket change. There's no way Stewart Group could've secured that investment without my help."
A Deal on Her Terms
Not only did they get it, but they managed to land a one-billion-dollar investment.
Andrew was just as baffled.
Since when did Summer get connected with Graham Group?
And of all companies-it had to be Graham Group, Trevor's biggest rival.
Trevor's voice was low and sharp. "What the hell happened?"
Andrew knew there was no hiding it. "The news about Graham Group investing one billion dollars into Stewart Group's Global Plan has been spreading like wildfire online today."
Especially with all the rumors about the Stewart family's real and fake heiresses. That only made the headlines spread even faster.
Trevor tossed the contract onto the seat beside him and pulled out his phone. His fingers swiftly tapped across the screen as he searched for the latest headlines.
Within seconds, article after article popped up.
"Graham Group Invests One Billion Dollars in Stewart Group's Global Plan-Yes, One Billion!"
"Graham Group and Stewart Group Set to Deepen Their Partnership!" "Summer vs. Margaret-The Heiress Showdown Over Investment!"
"The Stewart Group's True Heiress, Summer, Secures the Historic Deal!"
A close-up shot of Summer on stage, signing the contract, was all over the news.
She stood front and center, holding the agreement in her hands, her radiant smile glowing under the spotlight-bold, confident, and impossible to ignore.
Trevor stared at the screen, his deep-set eyes darkening, his fury brewing like a raging storm.
Chapter 38
Trevor let out a cold chuckle. She actually went to Fraser from Graham Group- using this move to challenge me, pushing me into a corner, making me back down. Bold move. Very well.
So bold that Trevor had no choice but to admit-
This time, Summer had successfully pushed him to his limit.
Trevor reached for his phone, ready to dial her number.
But the moment he entered the digits, he suddenly remembered-
Last week, Summer had deleted his contact.
A fresh wave of irritation surged through him. Frustrated, he yanked at the perfectly knotted black tie around his neck, loosening it roughly.
"Andrew, give me your phone."
"Mr. Larson?" Why was Mr. Larson asking for my phone all of a sudden?
Trevor's voice dropped even colder. "Are you deaf? I said, give me your phone."
Andrew shivered at his tone, too intimidated to ask why he needed it.
Without hesitation, he unlocked his phone and handed it over.
Trevor took the device, swiftly dialing Summer's number from memory.
He had never bothered saving her name-
Not because he didn't care, but because he never needed to.
Summer used to call him so often that her number was practically burned into his memory.
Just as the phone started ringing, Summer was on her way back to her office.
After finalizing the contract, the banquet was supposed to continue with the next part of the program.
Jasper had originally planned to transfer 10% of Stewart Group's shares to Margaret.
They had even prepared the equity transfer contract in advance.
But after everything that had happened, Jasper clearly had no intention of bringing it up.
Instead, he abruptly wrapped up the event and personally escorted Delia and the Graham Group executives out.
When Summer saw Andrew's name flash across her screen, she paused mid- step.
She knew Andrew was Trevor's right-hand man.
Which meant this call had to be about Trevor.
She didn't want to answer.
But Andrew wasn't a bad guy. He had always been one of the few people at
Larson Group who actually saw her as Trevor's girlfriend.
As she hesitated between picking up or declining-
The phone kept ringing relentlessly, the sound grating like a ticking time bomb.
Before she could decide, her finger accidentally brushed the screen.
Call connected.
Just then, her assistant, Quinn, walked over, handing her a file.
"Ms. Stewart, the one-billion-dollar investment from Graham Group should be transferred within the next few days. Mr. Stewart wants you to review the Global Plan budget first."
The words carried clearly through the phone-right into Trevor's ear.
Trevor let out a cold laugh, his already icy expression turning even more frigid.
"Summer, you've really outdone yourself." His voice came through the speaker- low, sharp, and ice-cold.
Summer immediately recognized his tone. Trevor was furious.
But she couldn't be bothered to entertain him. "There's nothing left for us to talk about."
Without another word, she hung up.
Trevor stared at the screen.
The call had been disconnected.
His phone screen went black.
Trevor clenched his jaw, his eyes growing cold and unreadable.
Furious, he hurled the phone, sending it crashing to the floor of the car with a sharp crack.
Andrew barely had time to react before he saw his phone shatter on impact, pieces scattering everywhere.
His face instantly stiffened.
That was his brand-new phone.
"Mr. Larson, that... that was my phone."
Trevor clenched his jaw. "I'll buy you another one. No-ten."
Andrew felt a chill run down his spine.
He wasn't sure if Trevor meant to replace his phone ten times... or smash it ten
times.
After hanging up, Summer returned to her office and sank into the couch.
The Breaking Point
She took a sip of water, then suddenly remembered something.
She grabbed her phone and opened WhatsApp.
At the very top of her chats was a pinned conversation-Fraser's profile, a simple pudding icon.
The last message in the chat was "OK."
Before the banquet, she had messaged Fraser, asking if the Graham Group
investment contract could require her as the designated signée.
She had expected him to ask why.
Instead, he replied instantly.
"OK"
Summer absentmindedly ran her fingers over the two letters, not even realizing-
The reflection in the glass window captured her soft smile, glowing under the dim
office lights.
Since adding Fraser on WhatsApp, she hadn't given his profile much thought.
Now, out of curiosity, she opened his Facebook page.
Scrolling to the bottom, she found that his page was minimalist.
Mostly just links related to Graham Group.
No selfies, no personal updates-though occasionally, there were a few pictures of
Pudding.
Exiting out of his profile, she started typing.
"Thanks for today. Are you free tonight? Let me treat you to dinner."
She stared at the words, feeling like something was off.
After a moment, she deleted the last few words and retyped.
"Let me treat you and Pudding to dinner."
Chapter 39
The Difference Between Love and Indifference
Ding
Fraser replied almost instantly.
"Looks like someone's in a good mood today."
Summer's lips curled into a slight smile.
"Thanks to you, Mr. Graham. Global Plan secured its investment, and I got exactly what I wanted."
Fraser already knew everything that had happened at Stewart Group today.
Delia had reported back to him in full detail.
He didn't mind that Summer had used him.
In fact, he welcomed it-
Because step by step, he wanted to become someone she relied on.
This time, he wanted her to be the one making the first move into his world.
"Just one meal to show your appreciation? That seems a little underwhelming." Summer thought about it seriously.
Thanks to Fraser's help today, she had secured 30% of Stewart Group's shares.
One meal did feel a little stingy.
"How about two?"
"Two meals? If they're at your place, I might consider it."
Summer stared at the words "at your place," and her heartbeat skipped.
Was he really just talking about dinner, or was this his way of inviting himself over?
She took a sip of ice water, hoping to cool herself down.
"My place is too small. I don't think I can accommodate someone of your status." Fraser replied almost instantly.
Fraser quickly typed, "Small? As long as it doesn't get in the way, it's fine."
Summer's face burned.
Wait... Is he actually implying something? In bed? Oh my God, this man is shameless!
Her heart pounded erratically.
Thankfully, no one else was in the office to see her blushing.
The Difference Between Love and Indifference
Summer gripped her phone tightly, at a complete loss for words.
Fraser looked at the message on his screen, a slow, amused smile spreading across his face.
He could picture her right now-her face flushed, caught completely off guard.
She had a naturally confident look, but when she blushed, it added an unexpected softness that made her even more stunning.
His dark eyes locked onto the floor-to-ceiling window, deep and unreadable, his lips curving slightly.
"Summer, what exactly is going through your head? I was talking about dinner. But if there are other... services, I wouldn't turn them down."
Summer's face burned even hotter.
Shameless! That was not what she meant!
"You wish!"
A sudden knock on the office door snapped her out of her thoughts.
Quinn peeked in. "Ms. Stewart, you have a meeting."
Summer blinked, remembering the marketing meeting she was supposed to attend.
She had been so caught up texting Fraser that she lost track of time.
"Got it."
Standing up, she grabbed her laptop and the meeting notes from the desk.
Before she could head out, her phone buzzed again.
A new WhatsApp message.
She couldn't resist opening it.
Fraser smirked, "So you're allowed to be stunning, but I'm not allowed to dream a little?"
Summer let out an involuntary laugh.
She couldn't help but stare in surprise, as if she had just discovered something completely new.
The Summer she knew was always serious about work-it was rare to see her boss this relaxed and soft.
It was like discovering a whole new side of her.
She had heard rumors that Summer was engaged.
But since joining the company, she had never once seen this mysterious fiancé visit.
And she had definitely never seen Summer texting him with a smile like this.
Quinn had always assumed Summer's fiancé was just part of a wealthy family arrangement-nothing more than a business deal with no real feelings involved.
The Difference Between Love and Indifference
But today... had he suddenly changed?
Then, all of a sudden, Summer remembered.
Her WhatsApp conversations with Trevor were always one-sided.
She was always the one reaching out, and if he responded at all, it was a rare occasion.
Sometimes, she would wait days for a single response.
Free Coins
One time, she had been so swamped with a project that she hadn't seen him for almost two weeks.
She had missed him. So, despite being exhausted after work, she had gone straight to his villa. She texted him, made a full homemade dinner, and set the table, excited about the idea of having dinner together.
She waited.
And waited.
By 11 p.m., her messages were still unread.
Even the housekeeper had stepped out several times, glancing at her sitting
alone at the massive dining table.
By midnight, Trevor finally came home.
His eyes swept over the cold dishes on the table, and all he did was frown.
Summer couldn't hold back her frustration. "If you weren't coming home for
dinner, why didn't you tell me ahead of time?"
Trevor barely looked at her. "I thought I replied to your message."
How ridiculous.
Summer's expression instantly turned cold.
Trevor rubbed his temples, his tone laced with impatience. "Summer, I'm busy. If
you need something, just call me. Stop spamming me on WhatsApp."
Funny. Did he really think she hadn't tried? His phone had been off.
But Fraser was just as busy-he ran a major corporation, just like Trevor.
Yet somehow, he always made time to acknowledge her and respond to her.
When someone truly cares about you, they don't ignore your messages or leave you waiting.
Chapter 40
The afternoon meeting had run longer than expected.
By the time Summer got back to Brookhaven Estates, it was almost 8 p.m.
Her apartment was on the 18th floor, with three units per level.
As the elevator doors slid open, she immediately spotted a familiar figure standing outside her door.
Summer blinked.
Trevor
He was still in his tailored black suit, tie perfectly in place. He looked sharp and composed-like he had just stepped out of a meeting. The same cold, intimidating aura surrounded him.
His brows were furrowed, and there was a shadow of exhaustion beneath his deep-set eyes. It was clear he had been waiting for a while.
Why is he here? Trevor had never come to her place before. He used to say it was too small, too cramped.
From a few steps away, she could already smell the strong scent of alcohol.
Summer instinctively took a step back.
Trevor was always arrogant, always self-centered.
And when he drank? His temper was even worse.
Is he here because I hung up on him this afternoon? Did he really come all this way just to cause a scene?
Summer thought for a moment, then casually pulled out her phone.
Lifting it slightly, she snapped a quick photo.
Then she opened WhatsApp, found Peyton's chat, and sent the picture along with a message.
"Trevor showed up at my place tonight. It looks like he's finally here to apologize. Haha, Peyton, I guess I'll forgive him now. Hope that pisses you off."
After sending the message, she slipped her phone back into her purse.
She decided to walk right past him, unlock the door, and act like he wasn't even there.
Her heels clicked sharply against the floor as she approached.
At the sound, Trevor turned around.
His deep, piercing gaze locked onto her.
It had only been a few days, yet something about her felt different.
It had only been a few days, and she still looked like the same woman he knew.
But somehow, she felt different.
She seemed brighter, more confident-nothing like the defeated woman he had last seen during their standoff.
Trevor refused to believe it. She's putting on an act. She's breaking up with me, and she's still in a good mood? She has to be faking it.
But the fact that she looked so unbothered-
That irritated him even more.
Summer could feel his intense gaze burning into her, making her uncomfortable.
She ignored him, lowered her head, and quickened her pace.
She reached for her keys, ready to open the door-
But the second she put the key into the lock, a strong hand grabbed her wrist.
With a firm pull, the keys slipped from her grip and clattered onto the floor. Thrown off balance, Summer stumbled backward-straight into his chest. The scent of whiskey and cologne hit her all at once.
She immediately pushed him away.
"Trevor, what the h*ll are you doing?"
Trevor's dark eyes locked onto hers, his voice low and restrained. "Summer,
haven't you made enough of a scene?"
The word "scene" made her pause.
She almost laughed.
A scene? So in his eyes, everything she did was just causing a scene.
That was why he never took her seriously.
That was why he thought throwing money at Stewart Group would be enough to make her back down- again.
Her gaze turned ice-cold. "You think I'm just making a scene?"
Trevor scoffed. "Aren't you? You knew damn well that Fraser and I are sworn enemies, yet you deliberately went to him for an investment in Stewart Group. You're not just trying to piss me off-you want me to give in to you. You've really learned how to play the game, haven't you?"
Summer had no interest in arguing with him at her front door.
"Trevor, think whatever you want. We're done."
His expression darkened, and his voice came out through gritted teeth. "I never agreed to that. It doesn't count."
Summer let out a cold laugh. "It takes two people to be in a relationship, but only one to end it. Whether you like it or not, we're over."
Trevor had been drinking, and every time she said, "We're done," his blood boiled
even more.
His sharp eyes burned with anger, his voice dark and threatening. "Summer, no. Not happening. Get that idea out of your head!"
Suddenly, he stepped forward, grabbing both of her wrists and pinning them against the wall.
Summer gasped, completely caught off guard. "Let me go!"
Trevor's grip was firm, his gaze locked onto hers as he leaned in, about to kiss her.
Summer had had enough.
Without hesitation, she drove the sharp heel of her stiletto straight into his foot.
Trevor let out a sharp grunt, his body tensing in pain as he instinctively pulled back. His grip loosened just enough.
Seizing the moment, Summer shoved him back with everything she had.
And then-
Smack!
The slap echoed through the dimly lit hallway.
Trevor's head snapped slightly to the side.
A red handprint bloomed across his face, deep scratches from her nails making it
even more striking. The sheer force of her slap was undeniable.
It stung. Not just the slap-but the realization.
Summer's voice ice-cold. "Trevor, what the h*ll is wrong with you?"
wa
Trevor stood frozen, the slap sobering him up instantly.
For the first time, in Summer's clear, unwavering eyes, he saw it-disgust and indifference.
A sudden wave of panic gripped him.
Does Summer... hate me? No. No, she loves me. There's no way she could hate
me.
It had to be his imagination.
But deep down, he knew-the way she looked at him tonight was different. Her coldness, her resistance, and now, the way she completely pushed him away-it
wasn't just anger.
She was done.