Ch. 351..360
Chapter 351
The First Place
Finished
Summer looked up at him. She couldn't quite read the emotion on his handsome face. His lips were pressed together, and it seemed like the only thing on his mind was feeding her.
She opened her mouth and swallowed another spoonful.
Once she finished the soup, Fraser set down the bowl. He pulled a tissue from the box and gently wiped the corner of her lips.
His fingertips brushed lightly against her skin, and Summer felt her cheeks start to burn.
She reached out to grab the glass of water from the table.
But Fraser beat her to it. He picked up the glass, poured fresh warm water, and handed it to her.
Summer stared straight at him with her clear, black-and-white eyes, slowly took the glass, and drank.
Once she finished, Fraser stood to return to the sofa and resume working.
Just as he got up-
Summer reached out carefully and tugged at his shirt sleeve.
Fraser turned back and lowered his head. His dark eyes landed on her small hand gripping his sleeve.
Summer bit her lip. "Fraser... are you mad at me?”
He looked up. There was a depth in his eyes she didn't understand. After a moment of silence, he said, "I told you, I'll never be angry with you."
"But you're so cold. You don't even smile. You fed me, then went right back to work. And today, you've said " She counted on her fingers, "not even ten sentences to me."
Her voice was soft, cautious, carrying a hint of complaint..
Fraser sat back down, his gaze locked on her. Her beautiful, clear eyes looked slightly hurt.
He reached out and tucked a strand of hair behind her ear. "I'm just mad at myself."
Summer blinked. He's angry with himself?
"Why?"
Fraser took her hand and held it tightly, letting out a bitter laugh.
He wasn't strong at all. He was scared.
protected her better.
"Summer."
Finished
He pulled her into his arms, pressing his face against the curve of her neck, breathing in her scent, soaking in her warmth. His voice was low and magnetic as he murmured her name.
She heard the pleading, almost humbled tone in his words.
"If I'm the one you care about most... can you stop risking yourself for others?" Because if something like this happened again, he didn't know if he could take it.
Summer froze for a second. Then she raised her hand and gently placed it behind his head, fingers sliding into his short black hair.
Her chest ached-tight and sore-because of this man.
Just then, there was a knock at the hospital room door. A bodyguard stood in the doorway.
Fraser slowly sat upright.
The bodyguard said, "Mr. Graham, Mrs. Graham, your friend Merry has been waiting outside since she heard you woke up. She's been there a whole day and night. She said she wants to see you."
Summer looked at him. "You don't like Merry, do you?"
Fraser's face remained calm. "I don't like anyone who hurts you.
Summer already knew the whole story. Merry wasn't really to blame, but neither
was she. The real fault lay with whoever orchestrated the whole thing.
But she also knew-if something had happened to her because of it, the one who'd suffer most was Fraser.
She understood what he meant. He wanted her to be a little more selfish.
Summer looked at the bodyguard. "Tell her to go home and rest. I'm awake now. I'll see her when
I'm better."
The bodyguard left, and the room fell quiet again.
Summer reached out and took his big hand, threading her fingers between his. "I know going to save someone looked like some saintly move. And I know how worried you were. I won't do it again, okay? So please don't be mad anymore." Fraser looked down, watching her slender fingers wrap around his.
His heart softened. Slowly, he tightened his grip.
The Fest Place
-he wasn't mad anymore.
She admitted to herself this was a little manipulative-but she was counting on the fact that
Fraser doted on her.
She gently leaned into his chest, listening to the steady, deep beat of his heart.
What a blessing, to have found this man.
A light breeze slipped through the white gauzy curtains, lifting one corner. The early winter sunlight filtered into the room, casting a lazy golden glow over them both.
After a while. Summer looked up from his arms and gazed at him. "Fraser."
Fraser lowered his head, eyes locked on hers. "Yeah."
Chapter 352
What Was Left Unsaid
Summer pressed her lips together, then quietly said, "There's something I never told you. I wanted to today. When I first found out I was pregnant... I was actually planning to move
overseas."
Knock knock.
A knock on the hospital room door interrupted her.
Yvette stood in the doorway. "Did I come at a bad time?"
Behind her stood Xavier in a white coat, a stethoscope hanging around his neck. He gave a calm, friendly smile.
Seeing them, Summer realized she was still leaning against Fraser's chest. Her cheeks flushed, and she quickly sat up straight.
Fraser stood up, regal and poised, shooting a cold glance at Yvette. When his eyes fell on Xavier, his expression darkened even more.
Xavier
gave a small shrug, helpless. His look seemed to say, I couldn't stop her even if I tried.
Yvette looked at Summer, still pale and noticeably thinner.
She rushed forward in a few strides and pulled Summer into a tight hug, her voice full of concern. "Summer, you scared me to death!"
Fraser's eyes
darkened further, his gaze falling on Yvette's arms wrapped around Summer.
Summer coughed twice. "I'm fine now, really... you can see for yourself."
Yvette gripped Summer's shoulders, looking her up and down. "This is not fine! You were practically at death's door!"
She turned and shot a glare at Xavier. "It's his fault for not telling me right away. I almost lost my mind when I finally found out!"
Xavier sighed. He'd waited until Summer woke up to tell Yvette what happened. The moment she heard, she'd been ready to tear him apart.
If Summer hadn't still been lying in bed, Yvette probably would've come in with a knife.
She hadn't bothered to clarify that Xavier had saved Summer, not harmed her. To Yvette, he was just part of the problem.
Women, he thought. Sometimes, completely unreasonable.
"I swear, I'm furious," Yvette said. “Just thinking about how you almost froze to death makes me want to find the one who did it and end them. Who was it? Who dared lock vou in that warehouse
What Was Left Linsaid
Finished
When Summer woke up. Fraser didn't want her worrying too much. He'd only given her a brief
summary.
At the banquet, one of Morgan's maids, upset that Morgan had been treated poorly, had lured Merry into cleaning the storage area. Then, using Merry as bait, she led Summer in.
After that, the maid shut the warehouse door and opened the freezer.
The maid later confessed. Her intent had been to teach Summer a lesson-she hadn't known Summer was pregnant or that things would go so far.
Summer explained everything that had happened at the banquet.
Yvette was seething, practically fuming. "A maid? You expect me to believe this was all the work of a maid? You just happened' to lose signal the moment you walked in there? That's not something a maid could pull off alone. Where is she? I want to interrogate her myself. I dare her to lie to my face."
Fraser said flatly, "She's dead."
After Summer regained consciousness, she'd wanted to see the maid.
Fraser had Mike bring her over before transferring her to cold storage. But before that could happen, the maid took her own life.
She'd left a note. In it, she wrote, "I'll take full responsibility. This has nothing to do with the Harper family."
Yvette slammed her hand down on the bedside table, gritting her teeth. "Damn it. Now there's no one to question! The whole thing reeks of a setup. She kills herself before she's even put in cold storage? That's insane. There's no way she didn't have someone pulling the strings."
The more she thought about it, the angrier she got. She didn't hold back. "If she confessed, the first step should've been a proper investigation. Who the hell just sends her off to be frozen to death? Men are always so impulsive-can't trust them to do anything right,"
The air in the hospital room dropped several degrees. Fraser's jaw tightened, sharp and cold.
He was fighting the urge to throw Yvette out of the room on the spot.
Yvette felt the chill instantly and shrank back.
Xavier quickly stepped in. "Summer was unconscious. Fraser wasn't in any shape
to deal with anything. You don't know what you're talking about. Fraser, ignore her. Come on, let's go have a smoke. You've been in this room all day-you must be going stir-crazy."
Chapter 353
Draw the Line
Finished
Worried that Yvette might run her mouth, Summer smiled and said to Fraser, "I want to chat with Yvette for a bit. You can go.
Once the men left. Yvette finally let out a breath. Honestly, she hadn't said anything wrong.
If she had known the maid was going to confess, she would've made sure the woman was detained and interrogated properly.
But if she'd seen Summer's condition at the time, she probably wouldn't have been able to think straight either.
Yvette sat
sat at the edge of the bed and took Summer's hand.
"Summer, what's your plan now? Are you really going to let them use a maid as a scapegoat and
call it done?"
Then she added, "You were hurt at the Harper family's birthday banquet. No matter how they spin it, they're involved. If you ask me, don't hold back-just have Fraser wipe out the entire Harper family."
Summer lowered her eyes and was silent for a while.
When Fraser was working earlier, she'd overheard something.
The Graham Group was about to hold its annual consortium meeting in a few days.
She vaguely remembered Mike reporting that because Fraser had announced their marriage. some members of the consortium were planning to push for his removal.
If Fraser made a move against Granthera Bank now, especially over her situation and without clear justification, it would only give the public more ammunition to go after him.
She couldn't keep being a burden to him.
Word by word, Summer said, "I'm not going to let Fraser get involved in this." Yvette frowned. "Why not?"
Summer looked her in the eye. "The Harper family has dozens, maybe over a hundred members. If Fraser lashes out without distinguishing right from wrong, think about what the headlines in Havenbrook will say."
The Graham Group might be the wealthiest in Havenbrook, but going after another elite family without solid evidence would damage ser's reputation and
her own.
both
Yvette hulled, “So what, you're just going to let the people who hurt you get away with it?"
Summer shook her head
Draw the Line
Yvette pressed, "Then what are you going to do?"
Summer looked at her steadily. "Yvette, I need your help with something."
Yvette leaned in, listening as Summer whispered her plan.
"Done. I'm taking them down with you."
Finished
At the Harper family estate, Samuel and Cedar returned home with grim faces.
A servant came up to take their coats.
Cedar slammed a folder down onto the table. "I'm so pissed I could explode!"
Martin, supported by another servant, slowly emerged from one of the rooms. He looked at the documents on the table, his stern face filled with displeasure.
"What's going on? You come home and start yelling like a madman-what kind of behavior is
this?
Cedar pressed his lips together. Seeing Martin step out, he toned down his temper a little.
Samuel stepped up and took over helping Martin to the couch.
"Dad, here's what happened. Cedar and I took our legal team to the Graham Group today. We were supposed to sign the final contract for the Norwyn District investment project-the one we already agreed on. But when we got there, not only did Fraser refuse to meet us, his team kicked us out in front of everyone. They said the deal's off
"This was supposed to be a done deal. Everyone at Granthera Bank knows it. We even promised. bonuses to the team once it went through. And now that punk Fraser goes back on his word? We were humiliated. If you'd been there, you would've been furious too!"
Martin sat at the head of the couch, his expression dark as he stroked his white beard.
He wasn't exactly surprised Fraser had pulled the plug on the Harper family's Norwyn project. After all, his woman had nearly died at their banquet.
If Fraser hadn't gone scorched earth on them, that was already showing restraint.
Martin thought for a moment, then sighed. "Let the Norwyn District deal go. Consider it Granthera Bank's misfortune to lose out. So we make a little less this year."
Cedar frowned. "Dad, if it were just about the money, we could live with it. But do you know what Fraser did next?"
"I just found out-Graham Group is now partnering with our biggest rival,
Goldenfield Bank, on the Norwyn District deal!"
Draw the Line
become the top private bank in Havenbrook."
Finished
"This is personal. Fraser's clearly letting his feelings get in the way. No regard for past ties. Just because of that incident with Summer, now he's targeting us on purpose. And from what I heard, Summer's completely fine. She was only in that warehouse for less than half an hour. Our maid already paid with her life. Isn't that enough?"
Chapter 354
The Spark Beneath the Ashes
Finished
Hearing what Samuel said, Emelia, who had been making tea nearby, accidentally spilled hot. water on her hand.
Martin glanced at her but didn't say anything. When he looked up, he caught sight of Morgan tiptoeing toward the front door.
"Morgan," he called out coldly. "Where are you going?"
Morgan flinched. She turned around and lowered her head. “Grandpa... I made plans to go shopping with a friend."
"Go back to your room," Martin said sternly.
Morgan stomped her foot. "Grandpa! Why are you being like this? Ever since that woman Summer got hurt in our house, you've had the maids keep watch over me. I haven't even stepped outside my room. It's not like it was my fault! The maid acted on her own-she was just trying to teach Summer a lesson. What does that have to do with me?"
Martin's expression darkened.
Emelia stepped forward and knelt beside his chair. "Dad, don't be angry. Morgan's still young. Keeping her locked in her room all day is too much."
She turned to Morgan. "Go on, just come back early, alright? Don't give your grandfather more reason to worry."
Seeing that Martin didn't object, Morgan knew she had the green light. She stuck out her tongue, then ran off quickly.
Soon after, the roar of a luxury sports car engine echoed from the driveway. Emelia handed Martin a freshly poured cup of tea. "Dad, I know you're furious about all this. I've already scolded Morgan. She knows she was wrong."
"That maid basically raised Morgan. She was like a second mother to her. Her heart might've been in the right place-she just didn't understand what it meant to mess with the Graham family. But now that she's dead, talking about it won't change anything. We should focus on how the Harper family is going to weather this storm."
Martin took the tea and sipped it. Emelia was right. The maid was gone, and the Harper family had already apologized and paid a price.
But Fraser had no regard for past ties. Martin had no choice but to take this seriously.
"I know the Graham Group's consortium meeting is coming up," he said. "Their shareholders aren't exactly unified. Some of them want Fraser out. Samuel, I want you and Cedar to go see August and Sharon from the Lawson family. Tell them Granthera Bank is willing to lend a hand."
The Spark Beneath the Ashes
Finished
Martin gave him a look. "Fraser locked Helen up for the sake of that woman. August and Sharon have already been stirring up the shareholders to create chaos at the meeting. They came to me before-1 ignored them. But this time, Fraser went too far. He's completely disrespected me. So now I have no choice but to push back."
"If we can get Fraser ousted at the consortium meeting, the Harper family won't need to fear him anymore. We might even be able to win back the Norwyn District investment deal."
Cedar's frown finally eased. He gave Martin a thumbs-up. "Dad, you're still the sharpest of us all. Samuel and I will
get it right away."
Martin gave them a warning. "Keep this quiet. Fraser didn't rise to the top of the Graham Group in just a few years for nothing. If this backfires and the meeting doesn't go our way, it'll have nothing to do with the Harper family."
Samuel and Cedar nodded. "Don't worry, Dad. We'll handle it discreetly."
Martin let out a long sigh. My old friend... I didn't want to do this. But it was your grandson Fraser who struck first. So don't blame me.
Meanwhile, Morgan arrived at Havenbrook's famous Saint Beauty Spa-a place frequented by celebrities and elite socialites.
Each VIP guest had a private room and dedicated beautician.
Morgan stepped into one of the VIP suites to find Sasha and Liliah already there.
The studio was nearly a thousand square feet, complete with a soaking tub, full- body treatment. area, hair station, and a cozy lounge.
Morgan strolled in, tossed her Hermes bag onto the table without a care, and sank into the couch, crossing her legs with her bright red three-inch heels glinting in the light.
She pulled out a box of cigarettes from her bag, lit one, took a long drag, and exhaled slowly.
Sasha and Liliah didn't look nearly as composed. Both had clearly been on edge.
Liliah slumped on the couch with a sigh. "I haven't been sleeping well. Every time I close my eyes, I keep seeing the way Bossman looked like he was ready to kill someone."
Sasha, with dark circles under her eyes, added, "Same here. I swear I'm on the edge of a mental breakdown."
Morgan tapped her cigarette against the ashtray, annoyed. "You two cowards! Let me make this clear-don't let anything slip. If either of you says a word, I won't let you off the hook."
Chapter 355
Only the Dead Keep Secrets
Just then, someone knocked on the door of the beauty suite.
Finished
Sasha and Liliah immediately shut their mouths and picked up their flower teas, pretending to sip calmly.
Autumn, wearing a gray beautician's uniform, entered with a tray of fresh fruit and red wine.
She was Morgan's personal beautician.
Autumn set the wine on the table and poured glasses for each of them.
"Ms. Morgan, would you like a facial today or a full-body treatment?”
Morgan leaned back into the couch and cast her a disinterested glance.
"I'll take a milk bath later. I don't need anything right now. You can leave. And make sure no one comes in unless I call."
Autumn nodded. "Of course, Ms. Morgan. Just let me know if you need anything."
As she turned to leave, she discreetly pressed a small, nearly invisible recorder beneath the table with her palm before slipping out of the room.
Once she was gone, Sasha and Liliah turned back to Morgan.
Liliah leaned forward, anxious. "Morgan, what's going on with this whole thing? How is it being handled?"
Sasha watched closely too.
After everything that happened at the Harper family's banquet, both their parents had grounded them. And Morgan hadn't been giving them clear answers-just vague texts and half-replies.
The past few days had been torture. They were terrified the investigation might eventually lead to them. That would be the end.
They hadn't actually done anything. Morgan was the mastermind.
Morgan shot them a smug glance, took a drag from her cigarette, and blew out a stream of smoke, her expression growing more seductive behind the haze.
After a moment, she finally said, "My maid took the fall. She admitted to the whole thing."
Liliah gasped. "What?!"
Sasha muttered, "A scapegoat... I get it."
L-I DELL fran shiñad "Du mine if she can fusend what if.
Only the Dead Keep Secrets
Morgan sneered. "That's why she's dead."
Finished
Liliah's eyes widened in horror. She was the nervous type. She'd followed Morgan
in plenty of petty schemes before-but this? This was murder.
She stammered, "Y-you didn't... Morgan, you didn't actually kill her, did you?
Morgan thought back to that night.
She had begged the maid, who hesitated at first, but eventually agreed to take the blame.
But Morgan didn't trust her completely.
Only the dead stay silent.
She'd been drinking, and in a moment of drunken impulse, she grabbed a fruit
knife from the table and plunged it into the maid's body.
She still remembered the look of disbelief in the maid's eyes as she died. Morgan felt no guilt.
That maid had once told her she loved her-said she'd die for her if needed.
So this time, Morgan had simply helped her keep her word.
She crushed the cigarette in the ashtray, her voice cold. "Yes, I killed her. If she had lived, who knows if they would've traced everything back to me."
Sasha swallowed hard, her eyes darting to the table-no fruit knife in sight. She relaxed a little.
She gave Morgan a thumbs-up. "You're ruthless."
Morgan curled her lips into a cruel smirk. "Ruthless? What else was I supposed to do? Let everyone find out it was me who lured that bitch Summer into the warehouse and opened the freezer? It was my idea to freeze her to death."
She snorted. "Too bad the woman and her baby made it out just fine. If she'd lost that child, maybe Fraser wouldn't care about her anymore. Maybe he would've finally gotten over her. Then I'd have a shot at becoming the next Mrs. Graham."
In another VIP beauty suite, Autumn entered and found a stunning woman seated on the sofa.
"I placed the recorder just like you asked," she said.
Yvette looked up and smiled. "Thank you."
She pulled a bank card from her purse and handed it to Autumn.
Only the Dead Keep Secrets
Yvette blinked. "What's wrong?"
Finished
Autumn looked shy. "My whole village are your fans. You don't have to pay me,
Yvette... but could. I get your autograph?"
Yvette froze for a second. A fan?
"Of course." She reached into her bag, preparing to sign something.
Autumn raised a finger sheepishly. "One thousand copies."
Yvette stared. Okay, I'd rather just give her the money.
Inside the VIP hospital room, Summer and Yvette listened to the recording.
Yvette said, "Morgan is absolutely vile. She even killed the maid who raised her. We've got evidence now-let's turn this over to the police and get her locked up."
But Summer shook her head. "The Harper family is still one of the most powerful in town. Even with this recording, they might pull strings and get her out."
Chapter 356
Mine for Life
Yvette looked at Summer. "So what do you plan to do?"
Summer thought for a moment, and a cold glint flashed through her eyes. "I'll be discharged tomorrow. Let's give her a proper surprise then.
She had nearly lost her baby this time. There was no way she'd let Morgan walk away from that.
Yvette gave her a playful look, winking suggestively.
"Geez, Bossman's been treating you like a porcelain doll, huh? Won't even let you get out of bed until you're discharged-feeding you, bathing you... I bet he even helped you wash up. didn't he?"
Summer's face instantly turned red, her checks flushed at the memory of him helping her bathe the night before.
Yvette teasingly pinched her soft earlobe. "What's with that shy look? Don't forget, I've got a man too. Didn't you once say your Bossman went at it seven times in one night? Mine's not bad either. Five rounds in one night-not too shabby."
At the door, Fraser and Xavier stood frozen, both staring at each other with dark expressions.
Fraser thought, You went five times in one night?
Xavier thought, You went seven?!
Fraser frowned. "Keep Yvette away from my woman before she teaches her nonsense."
Xavier, clearly offended, defended his girlfriend. "What's wrong with Yvette? She's just straightforward. Honestly, Summer's been too sheltered by you. As the future Mrs. Graham, she's going to meet all kinds of people. You won't always be there."
He wasn't wrong-
Fraser couldn't be by Summer's side every minute of the day.
That's why Fraser had already decided-he was assigning bodyguards to protect her closely from
now on.
Something like this could never happen again.
He stepped forward and pushed open the hospital room door.
Xavier quickly followed.
Yvette paused mid-sentence when she saw them walk in. She looked a little guilty, unsure if Bossman had heard what she'd just said.
She stood un and tried to set e
Mine for Life
Fraser went straight to the bed, his eyes soft as he looked at Summer. "Did you take your supplements?"
Summer nodded sweetly. "I took the morning and noon ones."
Finished
Fraser took her hand and said smoothly, "Doctor says you need plenty of rest. You shouldn't be disturbed too often."
Xavier rolled his eyes. When did I say that?
Yvette finally realized he was kicking her out. Was he seriously kicking her out?
She was about to speak, but Xavier beat her to it. "Come on, Yvette. Let's go on a date."
Yvette gave him a side-eye. "A date? I've got tons of things to do."
He scooped her up and started walking out. "Too bad. I want to go on a date with you."
"Hey! Don't drag me! I wasn't done talking with Summer!"
And just like that, Yvette was swept away.
Summer was speechless.
The room fell into a peaceful quict. Just the two of them now.
Fraser sat beside the bed, his dark eyes silently scanning her face.
Her complexion looked much better now, her bright, clear eyes shining again. Just looking at her made something in him soften.
His gaze deepened. He picked up her delicate hand, brought it to his lips, and gently bit her fingertip.
A soft tingling sensation tickled her skin-it felt like feathers brushing through her chest..
Summer's lips curved up. "Don't you have work?"
"Not urgent."
"Oh." Summer hesitated. She wanted to ask about the Graham Group's upcoming consortium meeting but didn't know how to bring it up. If it weren't for her, Fraser wouldn't be dealing with
all this.
Fraser looked at her, voice calm and serious. "Summer, once you're out of the hospital, let's go get our marriage license."
She blinked. "Already?"
He smiled and glanced at her gently swelling belly. His voice was low and magnetic. "You're
Mine for Life
...Oh."
Finished
"What?" Fraser lifted her chin with one hand, forcing her to look at him. His tone was lazy, but firm. "Don't want to marry me? Too late now. You're mine for life. My Mrs. Graham."
Summer looked into his deep, obsidian eyes, her cheeks burning again.
What do you mean I'm yours for life?!
"So bossy. You haven't even proposed and you want to drag me to the courthouse?"
Fraser chuckled softly. "So... you want a proposal?"
Chapter 357
The Truth Between Us
The proposal-he was already working on it.
Finished
He'd planned to wait until after the Graham Group's consortium meeting to settle everything, then surprise her properly.
But seeing the look in her eyes now, Fraser couldn't help teasing, "So, how do you want me to propose. hmm?"
Summer turned her face away. His tone made it sound like she'd been waiting for it eagerly. "T don't want a proposal."
Fraser smirked, amused. "Well, since you don't, let's just skip to the marriage license."
Summer panicked. "You wouldn't dare!"
The low rumble of Fraser's laughter echoed through the room, vibrating softly in his chest.
Summer pouted. "Fraser! You're doing this on purpose. I'm not talking to you anymore."
He pulled her into his arms, settling her against his chest. "Okay, okay. I was wrong. I promise- you'll get your proposal and your wedding. I won't skip a single thing!
That finally calmed her down.
She realized she was starting to become a little clingy with him. She wasn't sure if that was a good thing... or a bad one.
A little while later, Fraser's phone rang.
He gently ruffled her hair, then stepped outside to take the call.
Still thinking about what he'd said about getting married, Summer remembered that her ID card. was with Julia.
As if summoned by the thought, her phone lit up-Julia was calling.
Julia was far away in Oblistan. Summer hadn't told her about the injury. She didn't want her to
worry.
"Hi, Mom."
"Summer, how's everything going at work?"
"The usual.
The Truth Between Us
Summer bit her lip, about to respond-then looked up.
Finished
Fraser was standing in the doorway, backlit by the hallway light. One hand in his pocket, tall and broad-shouldered, his face shadowed by the glare.
“Summer?” Julia's voice broke through from the phone.
Summer blinked, pulled from her thoughts.
She hadn't planned to say it yet, but as she looked at him standing there, something in her shifted. She wanted to say it now.
She curled her finger at him, motioning him over.
Fraser's dark gaze flickered. After a slight pause, he stepped toward her.
As he reached her, Summer reached out and held his hand tightly.
Looking into his obsidian eyes, she said clearly, "Mom, I've decided not to go to Oblistan."
There was a pause on the line. "What? Why the sudden change?" Summer met Fraser's burning gaze and said softly, "I've decided to stay."
Fraser's dark eyes didn't blink. They were still and deep like a forest lake.
Summer felt his fingers close around hers-firm and unwavering.
"Mom, can you send me my ID card?"
At that, Julia immediately understood.
Daughters always leave one day. That damned Fraser stole mine.
Julia sighed. "And what about the house here in Oblistan?"
"If you like it, you can split your time between here and there."
There was a long pause. Then Julia asked, "Are you sure it's him?"
The seconds ticked by slowly.
Then Summer replied, firm and clear, "I'm sure."
After she hung up, she felt a little embarrassed.
She looked up and immediately locked eyes with Fraser's deep, unreadable stare.
Her face turned red. The things she'd just said... were still echoing in her ears. Chapter 357 The Truth Between Us
Before she could finish, he pulled her tightly into his arms.
He buried his face in the curve of her neck, his breath warm against her skin.
Summer's lashes trembled.
"Fraser, there's something I never told you. Back when I found out I was pregnant.
I seriously thought about moving to Oblistan. I was ready to raise this baby on my
own."
"Mm. His voice was low and muffled against her skin.
Her throat tightened. After a pause, she continued.
"But then every time you held my hand, every time you stood by me without question, that plan started to fade. I'll admit it-I don't want to leave you anymore."
She felt something warm and damp against her neck. Her eyes started to sting too.
This time, she wasn't holding back. She could finally say it all out loud.
Summer took a slow breath.
Tve been selfish. In the beginning. I kept hesitating. I wasn't sure. I made a deal with Helen once. She gave me 30% of Stewart Group's shares.... and in return, I promised to let you go. I even
moved into the Graham estate because I wanted to get back at her."
Chapter 358
Nothing Left Unsaid
ummer finished in one breath, not daring to look at his reaction.
#Finished
Fraser lifted his head, gare dark and steady as it locked onto her. "I'm glad you chose to tell me all of this on your OWIE.
Summer froze. You knew?"
Fraser's lips twitched. 'Summer Piglet, you think you're that good at acting?"
Despite his words, he didn't sound angry.
Summer's nose stung. "Then why didn't you ever ask me about it?"
Because he was afraid of the answer he didn't want to hear.
Fraser had to admit-when it came to this woman, he wasn't himself anymore.
He didn't respond right away, so Summer, clutching her pregnant belly, quickly added, "I've got immunity now, remember? You're not allowed to be mad-for the baby's sake."
Fraser gently tapped her forehead with his finger. I'm not mad you made those decisions. I'm mad you didn't tell me sooner. You shouldn't have had to carry that alone."
Summer bit her lip. "But she's your grandmother."
Fraser's mouth curved slightly, and he gave a quiet laugh. “And how do you know I wouldn't have chosen you?"
Summer's eyes reddened. Thank you. Thank you, Fraser. This time, I won't say I'm not worthy. Because The decided-I'll walk through this with you, hand in hand, and Nm not letting go.
The next day. Summer was discharged and returned to the Graham estate.
That's when she discovered Fraser had arranged for several strong, well-trained bodyguards to protect her at all times.
Summer wasn't used to it. She protested repeatedly, but he refused to call them off.
In the end, she had no choice but to compromise. The bodyguards would remain
in the background, discreet and unobtrusive, so they wouldn't disrupt her daily life.
She spent two days resting at the estate.
Then Yvette sent word-Morgan and her mother would be attending that night's Havenbrook charity gala.
Nothing Left Unsaid
After tonight, she was going to make sure Morgan paid-publicly and completely- for everything she'd done.
Finished
Fraser was lounging lazily on the couch, one leg crossed over the other, holding a tablet as he worked. At the sound of movement, he looked up.
In the full-length mirror across the room, Summer was trying on a gown.
se wore a flowing lilac silk dress, the hem cascading like soft clouds to her ankles.
The fabric shimmered like misty sunlight, dreamy and elegant.
The dres wasn't form-fitting, and unless you looked closely, you couldn't tell she was nearly four months pregnant.
Fraser narrowed his eyes at her. "Where are you going?"
"Charity gala
She turned around, trying to reach the zipper on the back of her dress. But with the the movement was difficult. "Fraser, come zip me up."
Fraser set down his tablet and walked over.
pregnancy,
He reached out with his long, clean fingers and slowly pulled the zipper up from her waist.
His fingertips brushed her bare back-light, almost teasing. The shiver it sent through her skin. gave her goosebumps.
These past few days, Fraser had been sleeping next to her every night.
The most he did was kiss her. A kiss on the cheek. A kiss on the hand. Nothing more.
If she hadn't heard the shower running in the middle of the night, Summer would've wondered if her charm had completely worn off.
Her body had recovered well. After so much rest and constant nourishment in the hospital, her belly had even grown rounder.
But intimacy that was harder to bring up. It would've felt like she was throwing herself at him.
Even so falling asleep in his arms every night, she couldn't help but feel like something was missing
She blushed.
Fraser stood behind her, holding her shoulders, looking at the mirror.
He w
was breathtaking in a crisp white shirt and tailored black trousers, tall and composed.
She, in her soft lilac gown, leaned gently into his arms.
Nothing Left Unsaid.
Finished
Summer stared for a beat before snapping out of it. What am I doing, being this pervy in broad daylight?
Fraser pinched her warm carlobe. "I'll go with you."
Summer cleared her throat. "No need. Don't you have a work event tonight?"
Fraser didn't even blink. "I canceled."
Since she came home, he had been working from there most of the time. Even when he went into the office, he returned quickly.
Thinking back, Summer realized he hadn't returned to the Graham Group since she was hospitalized.
She frowned. "It's just a charity gala. Didn't you assign bodyguards? I'll be fine. Are you going to follow me around every time I step out of the house?"
Fraser didn't insist anymore, but he added one condition. “Message me every hour."
Chapter 359
Black Cards and Blue Diamonds
Summer gave him a look but held her tongue. She knew better than to pick a fight with this man at this stage.
"Okay," she agreed.
Then something crossed her mind. She looked up at him, held out her fair, open palm. “Mr. Fraser, your wife is going shopping tonight. Shouldn't you show some support?"
Fraser smirked, pulled a sleek black card from his wallet, and placed it in her hand. "Go wild."
Summer's eyes
lit up.
This card-one of fewer than a hundred issued worldwide. And in all of Havenbrook, maybe three people had one.
It had no credit limit.
Summer stood on tiptoe, looped her arms around his neck, and gave him a quick kiss on the check. "Thanks, hubby."
Before he could even react, she was already happily walking out of the room.
Fraser stood there for a second, stunned. He raised a hand to the spot where she'd kissed him, lips quirking slightly as her voice echoed in his head. Thanks, hubby.
Why did that feel so good?
Maybe he should give her another black card.
Another kiss. Another "hubby."
Watching her disappear down the hallway, Fraser stepped out onto the balcony. One hand in his pocket, he stared out at the garden before pulling out his phone.
"Is the ring ready yet?"
On the other end, Xavier's lazy voice came through. "You doubting me? Ardenia already extracted the rough diamond. It's a rare, vivid blue-way more valuable than any standard sapphire. We're shaping it into the biggest heart-cut ring you've ever seen.
Xavier laughed. "Big enough to weigh down her whole hand. The rest of the stone's going into a matching set-necklace, earrings, the works. Should arrive in Havenbrook by air this week."
"Oh, and that custom wedding dress you designed? The top atelier in Paris is finishing it now."
He couldn't help teasing. "Damn, Bossman, you even designed her dress yourself? Talk about. going all out. I swear, if Summer says no, I might just marry you myself."
Black Cards and Blue Diamonds
Xavier chuckled. I'm just impressed. Yvette's been grilling me for days asking
when finally gonna propose. I haven't said a word, though."
Just hearing that name made Fraser's expression sour.
He knew Summer was going to the charity gala tonight with her.
Ditching your husband for some wild woman? Really?
Finished
you're
His voice dropped, flat and cold. "If you leak anything to her, I'll tell your parents you're in love- and have them arrange your marriage tomorrow."
Brutal.
Xavier opened his mouth to reply, but the call had already ended.
Fraser rested both hands on the railing, looking down into the garden below.
The dog nanny was trying to feed Pudding.
The picky little thing barely sniffed at the gourmet meal before turning its head away with a dramatic flair.
Fraser scoffed.
Pudding seemed to sense someone watching. It looked up and saw Fraser on the balcony.
With an indignant bark, it glared up at him.
Ever since Summer came home, Fraser had forbidden Pudding from jumping on her-or even coming upstairs.
Now, seeing Fraser curl a finger toward it...
Pudding perked up. Playtime with Summer? It ditched the nanny and bolted up the stairs to the
third floor.
Crystal chandeliers glimmered overhead, casting dazzling light like rivers of stars. Reflections. danced on every guest, making their designer gowns and suits shine even brighter.
The event was hosted by the Havenbrook Charity Association, with all proceeds going to support individuals with disabilities.
To attract more powerful donors, the event welcomed the media.
The city's wealthiest families had sent their most elegant representatives, eager to make
Black Cards and Blue Diamonds,
Summer and Yvette stepped into the grand hall.
The press swarmed immediately, like sharks scenting blood.
Finished
Ever since the Graham Group publicly announced the engagement, Summer had become the center of Havenbrook gossip.
Flashes popped nonstop. Shutters clicked furiously.
Cameras were thrust into her face.
"Ms. Summer! How has your life changed since the Graham Group announced your engagement?"
"How did you and Mr. Graham meet? Was this a shotgun wedding?"
"What's your secret for winning over Havenbrook's most eligible bachelor? Any tips for the rest of
us?"
"The Graham Group's stock dipped recently. Was it related to the wedding announcement? Were you aware of this?"
Chapter 360
The First Lady of Havenbrook
Finished
"Ms. Summer, you and Mr. Graham come from very different backgrounds. Are you worried you won't live up to the title of Havenbrook's "First Lady?"
Summer didn't respond.
Yvette stepped forward, blocking the mics with a sharp glare.
God, these reporters are the worst.
They were always fishing for controversy to boost magazine sales.
She was a top-tier celebrity standing right there and they didn't even spare her a glance. Figures. Being the future Mrs. Graham really is a lightning rod-envy, jealousy, attention. All part of the package.
Security arrived quickly and cleared the paparazzi off them like swatting flies, escorting Summer
and Yvette into the ballroom.
Summer had originally planned to attend tonight's gala as a representative of the Stewart Group.
But once the charity association saw her name, they'd instinctively switched it to "Mrs. Graham" and arranged for her to sit in the front row.
Yvette glanced over to make sure Summer wasn't upset by the media's questions.
“Don't let that stuff get to you. Reporters are trash. The more you hear, the more brain cells you. lose."
Summer had already prepared herself the day Fraser announced their engagement.
Choosing to be with him meant being scrutinized-by the press, by the public, by the city's elite.
This kind of media attention didn't faze her anymore.
"I'm fine. Really," she said calmly.
Yvette grinned. "Still, it's kind of wild. Everyone keeps calling you Mrs. Graham this, Mrs. Graham that I almost forgot your last name is Stewart.”
Summer rubbed her temple. "You're not the only one. I'm starting to get dizzy hearing it."
"Oh yeah?" Yvette teased. Then maybe don't marry him. Let him stew a little longer. Honestly, I think he's got it out for me."
Summer stifled a cough.
Well... Fraser did seem to have a slightly over-the-top possessive streak lately.
cha -halbad i....
The First Lady of Havenbrook
"There's nothing like that. You're overthinking it."
Finished
Yvette scoffed. "Please. You're not even officially married and you're already taking his side.
Traitor."
Summer wrapped her arm around hers and coaxed, "Okay, okay. You're number one in m
heart."
my
Yvette arched a brow and raised her phone, giving it a little shake. "You better mean that. I recorded you saying it. Next time Fraser throws me that death stare, I'm gonna play this on repeat-one hundred times.
Summer froze. ... You didn't."
She really wanted to snatch that phone and delete the audio.
As they laughed and walked further into the venue, a staff member guided them to the front row,
Across the room, Emelia was chatting with a group of wealthy socialites, Morgan standing at her side looking radiant and smug.
Yvette smirked. "Let's see how much they're still smiling by the end of the night."
Emelia was the vice chair of the charity association.
Tonight's gala was practically her home turf.
She'd brought Morgan along specifically to help her make a splash and hopefully catch the attention of one of Havenbrook's powerful bachelors.
Her husband was gone. Her only shot at keeping power in the Harper family was marrying Morgan into a top-tier household.
Sure, Martin treated her well now-but the man was old. If he kicked the bucket, she and Morgan would have nothing left.
Just a few days ago, she'd gone to meet with the Aldridge family elders.
They hadn't outright rejected her, but it was obvious-they had zero interest in Morgan.
So this gala was crucial for both Emelia and Morgan.
Just then, the charity chairwoman, Holly, spotted Summer and Yvette entering. Her eyes lit up and she immediately stepped forward to greet them.
The surrounding socialites noticed and hurried after her.
Emelia and Morgan spotted Summer at the same time. Both stiffened in place, visibly thrown off.
Morgan's expression twisted into a dark scowl.
The First Lady of Havenbrook
going over, she had no choice but to follow.
As vice chair, snubbing the guest of honor would've been a social disaster.
Finished
Holly extended her hand. "Mrs. Graham! What an honor to have you with us tonight. You've graced this gala with your presence."
Summer shook her hand with a gracious smile. "This evening's about supporting people with disabilities. It's a meaningful cause. Of course I wanted to be here."
Holly beamed, then turned to address the other socialites.
"Ladies, you might not have heard-Mrs. Graham donated twenty million before the gala even began. What a generous and kind-hearted soul."
Summer replied evenly, "It's just a small gesture from the Graham Group."