Ch. 371..380
Chapter 371
The Reckoning
Percy flinched under Fraser's piercing gaze, the unseen pressure of authority until he bowed his head.
non him
"We got it, but it's less than previous years' allocations. As a shareholder representative, I had to object."
"Is that so?"
The man's cold sneer sent a shiver down Percy's spine, and his words trembled. "O-of course."
Fraser tilted his chin slightly.
Mike, standing nearby, took the cue and handed a document to the vice president, who projected. it onto the screen.
Mike's voice was calm. "This is evidence of Percy's embezzlement from the overseas subsidiary. It clearly shows that he has grossly violated the interests of the Graham Group through unethical behavior."
As the evidence scrolled across the screen, murmurs of shock rippled through the
room.
Percy's pupils dilated in horror.
H-how? I had only borrowed the funds temporarily after my stock market losses
and had paid them back quickly. How could there still be traces?
Fraser watched Percy's pale face with indifference. "Any explanations?"
"Th-this is fake!"
Mike countered, "The evidence is incontrovertible. Even your accountant confessed."
Percy clenched his fists and forced out his defense. "I paid back everything!"
Fraser's lips curled into a humorless smile. "If everyone acted like you, embezzling and then "repaying' at will or not repaying at all, how would this company function?"
The room erupted in scornful laughter, all eyes mocking Percy.
His face turned red, then white.
Fraser's voice was icy, leaving no room for argument. "The Graham Group has no place for a shareholder like you. If you don't want this evidence handed over to the police, you will have to transfer all your shares today."
Mike stepped forward, placed a prepared share transfer agreement on the table, and offered at pen. "Sign it."
The Reckoning
"Fraser, you are despicable! You planned this, forcing me to give up everything with this tyrannical contract. I won't sign it!"
Fraser shrugged, feigning indifference. "Then enjoy prison for the rest of your life. I'll be happy to arrange it."
Percy's bladder almost gave out on him. Desperate, he turned to August. August scowled.
That idiot! Caught red-handed, what could I do?
Seeing August's refusal to help. Percy's eyes burned crimson with anger. "Fraser!
I fought alongside your grandfather to build this realm before you were even born! Put away the bow once the birds are gone. Is that how you treat loyalty? You'll make every shareholder question their place here!"
Mike gestured sharply.
Three bodyguards grabbed Percy and forced him to sign the agreement before dragging him out.
The entire room froze, stunned by the ruthless efficiency.
One moment Percy was a shareholder. Next, he was a disgrace, cast out like vermin
The atmosphere in the conference room became suffocating; nearly a hundred people held their breath.
Fraser's eyes swept the room, his voice low but commanding. "No one can guarantee that a company's profits will remain the same year after year. But since
I took over, your dividends have consistently exceeded even my grandfather's era
— including this year. Any other objections?"
Silence. Not a soul dared speak.
Just then, Saxon stood up.
As the same generation as Maximus, he was the most revered elder present, a founding pillar of the family.
I'd never wanted to interfere, but after private appeals from August and Martin, I'd learned that the woman Fraser intended to marry, Summer Stewart, was vicious beyond measure.
nd Fraser, blinded by her, had even imprisoned Helen for her sake!
Though the Graham Group had flourished under Fraser's leadership, multiplying its assets, the young were often arrogant - disregarding wisdom and disrespecting their elders.
To marry a woman of such low morals and status? The marriage was a farce.
Chapter 372
The Uprising
Saxon's voice cut like a knife.
-B Pearls
"This year, the Graham Group has invested 1 billion dollars in the Stewart Mall. According to the project ROI comparison, the return rate of Stewart's Global Plan is the lowest of all the Graham Group's projects. As head of the company, Fraser, you've abused your power for personal gain. Where is the rationality in your decisions? Moreover, the announcement of your marriage has caused the Graham Group's stock to fluctuate. Are you even fit to hold the position of CEO: Recently, the Graham Group had announced Fraser's engagement to Summer. Though many were displeased, no one had dared to challenge Fraser openly- until now.
With Saxon leading the charge, the others seized the opportunity to air their grievances boldly.
"Mr. Graham, while we have no right to interfere in your marriage, if it destabilizes the company, that's... unacceptable."
"Exactly! Diverting the Graham Group's resources to prop up the Stewart Mall- even as CEO, you have to answer to the shareholders!"
"If you'd married the heiress of the Lastesh Group, none of this would have happened. Our overseas market would have expanded even more."
"Youth breeds arrogance. Acting unilaterally without regard for others is no way to run a company.
In an instant, the solemn financial summit descended into chaos, the conference room buzzing like a marketplace.
In one corner, the stenographer stood at a loss, unsure how to capture the unfolding drama.
August leaned back in his seat, arms folded, a smug smile playing on his lips as he watched the pandemonium unfold.
He picked up his phone.
A new message flashed on the screen. "The photo was sent to Summer. Her bodyguards were intercepted. She's on her way." August's grin widened, the lines at the corners of his eyes deepening with satisfaction.
With Saxon leading the rebellion, the shareholders and elders were now united in their outrage against Fraser.
If Fraser gave up the summit for this woman, I could finally push Aunt Helen into power.
Once that happened. Fraser's reign as CEO would crumble.
The Uprising
And the Graham Group? It would inevitably fall into the hands of the Lateson family.
The thought sent a ruthless thrill through August's veins.
On stage, the vice president paced frantically, torn between intervening and retreating, utterly helpless.
Meanwhile, Fraser remained seated, his sharp features unreadable, his fingers tapping the table. with deliberate calm.
Then Mike received an urgent message,
He hesitated, unsure if he should report it
I knew that the wolves in this room were waiting for Fraser to slip away.
Fraser couldn't leave.
But I also knew what Summer meant to him.
After a tense moment, Mike stepped forward and whispered, "Mr. Graham, a group of men intercepted Mrs. Graham's bodyguards. By the time the situation was resolved, the Hemic was. gone. We have confirmed that Mrs. Graham is not with the Stewart group either."
In other words, Summer is missing.
Fraser's fingers stilled. His handsome face darkened. "What do you mean, not with the Stewart Group?"
Mike bowed his head. "I've already sent more men to look for her, sir."
Fraser picked up his phone and dialed Summer's number.
The line rang endlessly. No answer.
Ice flooded Fraser's eyes. Without hesitation, he got up and headed for the exit.
Mike rushed to block him. "Mr. Graham, you can't leave! If you leave now, this situation will spiral
out of control!"
"Move."
Fraser's voice was deadly cold, freezing the air around them.
His glare sharpened. "Since when do you tell me what to do?"
Mike shuddered and reluctantly stepped aside.
Fraser took one last look around the room and ordered, "Stay here. Keep me informed in real time."
The Uprising
Mike cried inside. How am I supposed to handle this? Those vultures would tear me apart.
August watched Fraser's retreating figure, elation surging through him.
Walk! Walk out that door, Fraser Graham! And you'll never reclaim this throne!
Chapter 373
The Counterattack
Suddenly, Fraser's phone chimed as he headed for the exit, freezing him in mid- step. He glanced. down at the screen, his brow furrowed at the message. After a long pause, he turned with
deliberate grace and walked back into the conference room.
Mike's desperate face instantly lit up. Mr. Graham isn't leaving?
August's heart pounded. What the hell? Why isn't he going after that woman?
His fingers flew over the phone, "Status report!"
The answer came within seconds, "Target has not appeared. All teams are searching. No visual confirmation yet."
August's grip on his phone turned white, his veins bulging. Fuck! Where is she?
The shareholders' discontent was reaching a boiling point. One particularly bold member stood his voice shaking with barely contained rage, "Mr. Graham! How do you respond to Mr. Saxon's serious allegations regarding your misuse of company resources?"
up,
Without breaking eye contact, Fraser handed a single document to Mike, who hurried to project. it onto the giant screen. The room held its collective breath as Swiss bank transfer records filled. the screen.
Mike's voice rang out clearly. "The entire 1 billion dollar investment in the Stewart Mall was personally funded by Mr. Graham through his private bank account; not a single cent came from Graham Group capital."
The shareholders' eyes widened and blinked continuously.
This, this, this-how could this be?
Saxon had just been standing on the high ground ready to sanction Fraser.
But now, like Alzheimer's had kicked in, he was instantly confused!
Fraser's voice cut through the murmur like a scalpel, "I was unaware that my personal finances. required shareholder oversight."
Saxon's hands shook violently, his cane clattering on the floor. "Y-You control the investment department! These records could be faked!"
Fraser's smile didn't reach his eyes. "Saxon, you're old; you should go home to spend your days; otherwise, it's not fair to talk freely about things you haven't investigated clearly, causing the meeting to cajole. Is it fair to say?"
Saxon thought of what had just happened to Percy.
His knees buckled, and he collapsed into his chair with a thud.
The Counterattack
Fraser mounted the podium with predatory grace. Every eye followed his movements as he gripped the edges of the lectern. "If any of you believe you can surpass my leadership - if you're confident you can deliver greater returns to shareholders now is your moment to speak.
The silence was suffocating.
They all knew the undeniable truth. Under Fraser's leadership, the Graham Group's valuation had increased 300% in just three years. Their dividends had quintupled. These were results that no one in the room could hope to match.
Fraser's eyes swept the room before settling on August, who sat rigidly in his seat, sweat beading his temples.
"Since we have determined that there are no qualified challengers, Fraser continued smoothly. "the annual financial report is approved." The applause that followed was a mixture of genuine admiration and terrified acquiescence.
Then came the coup de grâce.
"Regarding my upcoming marriage to Summer Stewart, Fraser announced, his tone deceptively casual. "I will be transferring 20% of my Graham Group shares to her as a wedding gift.
The room erupted in chaos.
The shareholders looked at each other in disbelief, all too shocked to speak by this sudden decision.
One must know that most of the shares of the Graham Group were in the hands of the Graham Family, with a highly centralized equity system.
20% of shares represented an unimaginable fortune–enough capital to buy the entire Stewart Group empire ten times over. More importantly, it would instantly make Summer one of the most powerful shareholders in the Graham conglomerate.
Some particularly outraged shareholders shot to their feet, their mouths open in protest, only to be met by Fraser's glacial stare. The man's protest died in his throat, and he slowly sank back into
his seat.
"Any further objections to my marriage?" Fraser challenged, his voice dangerously calm.
The silence spoke volumes.
Everyone bowed their heads and dared to speak out.
You all used your own capital to prop up a woman,
How dare we have any objections!
In this way the consortium meeting ended after the vice president expounded on
The Counterattack
Suddenly, Fraser's voice cut through the murmur. "Uncle August."
He stopped August from leaving the room.
Chapter 374
The Unspoken Tension
August stopped in his tracks and slowly turned around, forcing an ingratiating smile on his face. "Fraser, today's meeting reminded me of Mr. Maximus's style. No, you're even more impressive. than he was."
Fraser ignored the flattery. He stepped forward and placed a hand on August's shoulder.
The weight of that hand felt like a thousand pounds pressing down on August. His heart skipped two beats.
"Mr. Saxon is getting old. It's time for him to retire in peace," Fraser said casually. "Have a good. talk with him about it."
With that, Fraser walked away, his steps unhurried.
The moment Fraser was out of sight, August's fake smile vanished. His hands clenched into fists at his sides.
That bastard Fraser! He's making me the bad guy here!
Fraser took Mike's car keys and headed straight for the underground garage.
Mike watched Fraser go, confused.
Why doesn't Mr. Graham order me to keep looking for Summer?
Why no further instructions?
Does that mean Summer was never really missing?
On the highway, the roaring Vertex sped like a bullet, reaching Ravenshire Boulevard in half an
hour.
Fraser got out of the car, his eyes dark and unreadable. He took the elevator up. The apartment was silent as he opened the door. His eyes swept the room before landing on the figure curled up on the sofa. Summer, apparently asleep.
Her delicate arm cradled her head, her legs drawn up slightly. Her lashes rested against her cheeks, her breathing slow and steady.
Just looking at her softened something in Fraser.
Summer stirred at the sound of the door. She lifted her head, her almond-shaped eyes blinking in surprise at the man standing in the doorway.
Their gazes locked. Neither spoke.
The golden twilight streamed through the balconir windowre exetine a warm glow over the room
The Unspoken Tension
Fraser stepped forward and knelt beside the sofa, studying her for a moment before pulling her into a tight embrace.
God knew how desperate / had been when I thought she was missing.
And then the text the relief, the confusion, the urgency.
But as he reached for her, Summer instinctively pressed a hand against his chest, creating a sliver of distance between them.
Fraser's dark eyes narrowed. "What's wrong?"
Summer didn't answer right away.
I knew that the photo had been sent with malicious intent - someone was trying to
manipulate me, to use me as leverage against Fraser
That was why I had sent him the message.
Don't worry. I'm at Ravenshire Boulevard. Concentrate on the shareholders meeting. We'll talk when it's
Over
But knowing it was a trap didn't make the sting any less sharp.
The thought of Fraser standing so close to Mia, of her looking at him with that greedy longing- it made my
skin crawl.
It bothered me so much that even the thought of returning to the Graham mansion filled me with disgust.
So I had come here instead.
I never knew I could be so possessive.
The discomfort churned inside her, and suddenly her stomach twisted. She
covered her mouth and stifled a dry heave.
Fraser grabbed tissues from the table and reached to wipe her lips, but Summer took them from him and did it herself.
His gaze bored into her, sharp enough to penetrate her defenses.
He felt her resistance, subtle but unmistakable. It stung more than he expected.
After a moment, Summer picked up her phone from the table and handed it to him, her voice eerily calm.
"Explain this."
Fraser took the phone, confused until he saw the photo.
The Unspoken Tension
He had never seen this picture before, but he remembered the moment it captured..
So this was why she was upset.
Still kneeling beside her, Fraser rested his hands on either side of the sofa, his
eyes never leaving. her face.
Summer kept her gaze lowered, her expression unnervingly blank.
Fraser frowned, choosing his words carefully.
"I didn't know this photo existed. Probably taken by someone in the Graham household. It was during Madam Graham's birthday. Mia came back for the party.
I had too much to drink and was. resting on the couch. As soon as I realized she was next to me. I left."
Summer remained silent, but her fingers tightened slightly around the edge of the couch.
Chapter 375
The Explanation
Fraser watched Summer's unresponsive expression, fear creeping into his chest.
Had she heard his explanation or not?
His usually eloquent tongue felt clumsy as he stumbled over his words. "It's true, I swear. There's absolutely nothing between me and Mia."
Mia.
The name sat like a lead weight in Summer's stomach.
She had appeared on that phone call that one night.
She had been seen on Ravenshire Boulevard.
She had even grown up with Fraser during her childhood.
Logically, I understood that these were just fragments of Fraser's past. Everyone
had a past. And Fraser loved me now - that much was certain.
But emotions weren't controlled by logic.
The ugly jealousy that twisted inside me made me hate myself. Those dirty, irrational feelings stuck in my throat, impossible to articulate.
Fraser gently lifted her chin with two fingers, forcing her to meet his intense gaze.
His voice. dropped to the deep, serious tone he only used with her.
"Do you remember what I told you about my mother's abduction when I was young? Mia's father was one of our family drivers. He died protecting my mother during the incident."
His thumb stroked her cheekbone absently. "Out of guilt and obligation, Madam Graham took Mia in. To me, she was just another face in the Graham family. I never paid her any special
attention."
A weighted pause. Then, softer, "The only childhood companion I ever acknowledged... is you."
Summer searched his dark eyes-those bottomless pools of black that held nothing but raw honesty. Her lashes fluttered slightly.
I didn't doubt his words. A man like Fraser Graham had no reason to lie about such a thing.
But women's hearts were complicated places. Cold facts alone couldn't soothe the pain. I needed to feel his devotion, his unwavering focus. I needed him to prove it in ways words couldn't convey.
"Um," she finally murmured noncommittally.
Enver mudied her for a long tente mom
momani "Summer" he said coflu the edges of his unice
The Explanation
That unraveled her last
thread of restraint. "In the photo," the words tumbled out before she could stop them, "her hand was on yours. She looked at you like...
Fraser immediately caught her restless fingers in his larger palm. "Camera angles and deliberate. framing. Yes, I'd been drinking that night, but I was sober enough to leave the second I realized she'd gotten too close."
When Summer remained silent, Fraser's grip tightened almost painfully. "I swear on everything! hold dear, you're the only woman I've ever cared about."
Summer finally looked up and met his desperate gaze. "I believe you."
His chiseled mouth flattened into a thin line. "You say that, but your eyes tell a different story."
It felt
as if she was just humoring me.
Fraser rubbed his temples, a rare sign of frustration.
Who could have predicted that one damn photograph would cause such havoc? Women's hearts were mazes / couldn't navigate. I'd laid it all out and explained it with perfect clarity. She claimed to believe me. Yet somehow it felt like she only partially trusted me.
Fifty percent trust?
Micro... trust?
"I'm hungry," Summer announced suddenly, effectively changing the subject.
"I'll cook."
As Fraser stood, Summer added quietly, The fridge here is empty."
Ravenshire Boulevard hadn't been occupied for months. The electricity had been off until today, when she arrived. Though a cleaning service maintained the apartment weekly, there was no fresh food.
Fraser's sharp gaze swept over the modest apartment so different from her usual lavish surroundings.
I owned countless properties throughout the city sprawling penthouses, private villas, even entire five-star hotels. But if Summer wanted to stay in this simple apartment tonight, I wouldn't say anything. Wherever she was, this was home.
He pulled out his phone and fired off a quick text to Mike before rolling up his sleeves with quiet. determination.
The kettle had just begun its soothing hum when the doorbell rang fifteen minutes later.
Fraser opened the door to find Mike carrying several bags of groceries, his arms straining under the weight. The assistant's eyes nearly popped out of his head at the sight before him his
The Explanation
Mike blinked quickly. Was this the same ruthless business titan who had dominated the shareholders" meeting just hours before? The same man who had coldly dismantled the opposition without breaking a sweat? The cognitive dissonance was almost too much to process.
"Mr. Graham," Mike managed, lifting the bags, "all the food you requested is here."
Fraser took the bags with a grunt, already mentally cataloging the ingredients for Summer's: favorite dishes.
Mike's eyes inadvertently wandered past his boss and landed on Summer, curled up on the sofa, at book open in her lap. The pieces clicked into place.
Ah. That explained the remarkable transformation.
Before Mike could process this revelation. Fraser's icy stare snapped him back to reality. The unspoken message was clear, your presence is no longer required. The door slammed shut with finality.
Mike stood frozen on the doorstep, staring at the closed door. Slowly, he reached up and adjusted. his tie, exhaling sharply. Some things, he decided, were better left unsaid.
Chapter 376
The Silent Treatment
Fraser placed the two large shopping bags on the dining room table and began unpacking. The bags were filled with various fresh ingredients prime cuts of beef, black-bone chicken, shrimp. and other high-protein foods.
He stored a few items in the freezer before setting aside the ingredients for tonight's dinner, a fresh red grouper, sea cucumbers, and bird's nest for Summer's nourishing soup.
From her spot on the couch, Summer glanced up from her book to see Fraser's tall frame disappear into the kitchen. With practiced ease, he turned on the stove, lit the flame, and placed at wok over the fire every move efficient and precise..
Even in the kitchen, the man's aristocratic bearing was unmistakable.
While he was cooking, Fraser called Xavier.
Xavier was driving when the call came in. Yvette was filming night scenes tonight, and he wanted to surprise her with dinner and roses in the trunk.
"Mr. Graham, yes?" Xavier replied cheerfully. "By the way, congratulations on the successful shareholder meeting. Graham Group stock is soaring."
Ignoring the flattery, Fraser got straight to the point, briefly explaining the photo incident and Summer's reaction.
Xavier turned the wheel. "Women are naturally jealous creatures. You know what they say - couples fight at the head of the bed but make up at the foot. Maybe try that approach?"
Most men preferred simple, physical solutions to relationship problems. But Fraser refused to go that route with Summer. He didn't want any lingering doubts to taint their relationship.
His knife came down sharply on a steak. "Give me some real advice."
The loud chopping sound made Xavier's left eye twitch. As a surgeon, I had never wielded a knife with such force.
“Uh...Mr. Graham, what exactly are you doing right now?"
"Cooking.
Xavier exhaled in relief before brainstorming actual suggestions. With the proposal happening in two days, any unresolved issues could spell disaster.
"Tell her you love her?"
Fraser frowned. Hadn't I said that before?
"Say it daily morning, noon, and night. Three times a day is guaranteed to move them. Also...."
The Silent Treatment
Xavier stared down at his phone. Was my advice not practical enough?
Back in my dating days, women used to ask me if I loved them until it drove me crazy.
Come to think of it. Yvette never asked that question.
Why didn't Yvette ask?
Not that I liked clingy women, but her indifference almost hurt my pride.
Wait - I was supposed to be solving Fraser's relationship problems, not analyzing my own!
+8 Pestis
At Ravenshire Boulevard, Fraser carried the finished dishes to the table four dishes and a soup. steamed red grouper, sea cucumber egg custard, stir-fried beef with broccoli, poached shrimp. and chicken soup.
Summer
put down her book and approached the table. The nutritionally balanced, protein– rich meal was clearly designed to meet her pregnancy needs. Fraser's cooking skills rivaled those of professional chefs, and the aromas made her stomach growl.
"Still nauseous: Fraser asked.
"No." Summer replied.
They sat down to eat. Fraser meticulously peeled shrimp, boned fish, and served portions on Summer's plate. His elegant fingers snapped off the shrimp heads before deftly removing the shells and placing the succulent flesh in a small bowl for her.
Summer ate quietly, her head bowed.
After dinner, she rose to take a shower. Standing between the master bedroom and the guest room, she hesitated before asking quietly, "Can I sleep alone tonight?"
Fraser's eyes darkened as he studied her intently. Under his penetrating gaze, Summer shifted uncomfortably.
It wasn't that I didn't trust him. I just needed space to process my feelings.
The silence stretched between them.
Finally, Fraser's deep voice answered, "Okay."
Relieved, Summer gestured to the room next door. "You can use the guest room. Everything's set up there."
She retired to the bedroom, changed into pajamas, and took a shower. Exhausted from the day's emotional roller coaster, she fell asleep almost as soon as her head hit the pillow.
Chapter 377
Midnight Care
On the balcony, Fraser stood with one hand in his pocket, his dark eyes gazing emotionlessly out the window. The evening moon hung high in the vast sky, casting its watery light over his solitary figure.
He pulled a cigarette out of his pocket. He'd rarely smoked since Summer's pregnancy, but tonight his mind was restless. The lighter flickered to life as he took a deep drag, the nicotine swirling in his chest.
From the balcony, he could see the lights go out in the adjoining bedroom.
She really was asleep.
A wry smile touched his lips.
Fraser finished his cigarette and took a shower. Instead of retiring to the guest room, he settled down on the living room sofa. The apartment on Ravenshire Boulevard wasn't large from here he could keep an eye on the master bedroom. The sofa was a little too small for his tall frame. He leaned back, his head resting on the pillows, and closed his eyes to rest.
Midnight, Summer awoke from her dreams thirsty. Blinking groggily, she pushed back the covers to fetch water.
As she swung her legs over the bed, a sudden, violent cramp seized her calf.
"Ah!"
An involuntary cry escaped as she clutched at the contracting muscle.
The bedroom door burst open before the sound had fully left her lips.
A tall silhouette filled the doorway.
Light flooded the room, blinding her for a moment. Before she could react, Fraser was at her side, lifting her cramped leg into his lap with practiced ease..
"Here?" His fingers found the knotted muscle.
Summer winced. "Lower...a little lower.
In the warm lamplight, Fraser's brow furrowed in concentration as he worked the tension out of her calf. Summer's eyes drifted to his hands those elegant surgeon's fingers now gently massaging away her pain.
Heat radiated from his touch, easing the cramp.
"Retter?"
Chapter 377 Midnight Care
His deep voice drew her eyes upward. Caught staring, Summer quickly looked away as their faces. hovered close enough to share a breath.
She cleared her throat and tucked her hair behind her ear. "Um, much better."
Without comment. Fraser shifted to massage her other leg.
"How... Summer hesitated, "how did you get here so quickly?"
Almost as if he'd been waiting outside.
"I heard you from the living room."
"You didn't sleep in the guest room?"
His hands never stopped. "You were restless at night. The sofa lets me hear if you need anything."
Summer bit her lip as something sweet and painful blossomed in her chest.
When the cramps subsided, she tried to stand. "Alright, I'm fine now." Fraser stopped her with a hand. "Going where?"
"Water, Summer replied.
"Stay," Fraser said.
Moments later he returned with a glass of warm water. Summer drank under his watchful gaze as silence fell around them.
As she set the glass down, Fraser placed a thermos on the bedside table. "This is for later. You can sleep now."
He tucked the blankets around her, then planted a kiss on her forehead. Summer's eyelashes fluttered at the contact.
The door closed behind him with almost silent precision.
The soft click reverberated through her like a stone dropped into still water.
Had I been too harsh?
Holding on to past grievances when he'd done nothing but care for me...
Morning light filtered through the curtains as Summer emerged from the bedroom
to find breakfast waiting. The smell of porridge filled the air.
"Come eat.
Fraser pulled out her chair.
Chapter 378
The Weight of Fortune
Summer took a cautious spoonful of the congee. The rich, velvety texture melted on her tongue - this wasn't something that had been whipped up quickly. It must have been simmering for at least two hours.
Had he slept at all last night?
Her eyes lifted to study Fraser's face. Faint shadows marred the skin beneath his eyes, barely noticeable unless one looked closely.
"Any plans today?" Fraser asked, sipping at his coffee.
"I have to go to the office," Summer replied.
"I'll drive you." Fraser said.
After breakfast, Fraser navigated the sleek car through the morning traffic to the Stewart Group headquarters. He emerged from the driver's side to open her door, one hand braced against the roof in that effortlessly protective gesture she'd come to recognize.
As Summer stepped out, Fraser ruffled her hair, his deep voice warm with amusement. "Go on. Text me when you're done, and I'll pick you up."
She hesitated. "Won't that interfere with your schedule?"
Fraser's
gaze softened. "Nothing is more important than this."
At the elevator doors, Summer glanced back. Fraser was still leaning against the car, arms crossed, his dark eyes following her every move. Even from this distance, the sheer devotion in his expression was unmistakable.
The office was buzzing with its usual morning energy, but something felt...off. Employees greeted. her normally, but there was a strange intensity in their eyes like children trying hard not to reveal an exciting secret.
Summer checked her reflection in a compact mirror. No smudged makeup, no stray hair.
Shrugging, she gathered files for the management meeting.
"Congratulations, Ms. Stewart!"
The thunderous chorus hit her the moment she entered the conference room. Thirty beaming faces stared back at her.
Summer froze in her tracks. "Congratulations...for what?"
Summer walked over, sat down on the seat, and said with a sigh, "The performance of the first half of the year is not very good, and there is no salary increase for pleasing me."
One executive practically vibrated with excitement. "Ms. Stewart vou're different now, no. it's our
The Weight of Fortune
"Right, right, right, Ms. Stewart, you are so rich now, you can expand Stewart Mall as much as your
want!"
Confused by their words.
Summer frowned. "What's going on?"
"Ms. Stewart, you still don't know yet? You are not only the general manager of Stewart Mall, but you also own 20% of the shares of the Graham Group! You should be the second shareholder of Graham Group now!"
"What does this mean? Based on the worldwide market value of the Graham Group, you could create 100 Stewart enterprises, Ms. Stewart!" Summer was shocked.
I was a bit tired yesterday, and when I saw Fraser come back, I knew that the shareholders. meeting went quite well, so I didn't ask much.
At this moment, when she heard this, Summer froze with a long reflex arc. Reacting back, she opened her cell phone.
The news of the Graham Group's Consortium Conference was all over the internet.
One of them was Summer jumped to become the second largest shareholder of the Graham Group!
immediately after that, Summer's value soared to 32nd on the world's Forbes list, the youngest woman to do so!
Summer once again froze.
Distracted and dizzy, she finished the meeting.
Back in her office, Summer reached for her phone to call Fraser when Yvette's name flashed on
the screen.
"Well hello there, my suddenly filthy rich best friend!" Yvette's voice crackled with glee.
Summer exhaled sharply. Apparently, I'm the last to know.
Yvette heard the sound of sighing on the other side of the phone, "You're weird, having so much money all of a sudden! At this moment shouldn't you be full of springtime, a feeling of being on
peak of your life?!"
the
Summer leaned on the seat. "It is quite happy."
The Weight of Fortune
will be yours, so you're no longer excited about this 20% share."
"What are you saying?"
In addition to the bad thoughts that arose from trying to suppress Helen before, I
was not coveting the Graham family's property.
Summer pursed her lips. "I'm a bit burdened."
"Burden what?"
Summer lowered her eyelashes. "Fraser's good treatment of me makes me feel burdened; in fact, I'm not as good as he imagined. I've also been a frequent brat to him, and I've also been very unreasonable, and it seems like I haven't seriously done anything for him, and the baby is something I want to keep myself, so it's not because of him..."
Chapter 379
Matters of The Heart,
"Stop right there; just stop. Yvette's exasperated voice crackled through the phone, accompanied by what Summer imagined was an epic eye roll.
"Summer, you're completely missing the point. Love isn't about keeping score. If Fraser wants to give you these things, it's because he loves you - he's not looking for some kind of repayment."
"I know that logically, but..." Summer frowned.
"But nothing," Yvette interrupted. "Do you love him?”
Summer nodded before remembering that Yvette couldn't see her. "I love him very much."
Then that's all that matters! You're overcomplicating things. Right now your only job is to take care of yourself and the baby."
A sudden realization hit Summer. "Oh no!"
"What now?"
"I've never told Fraser that I love him. Not in those words."
The silence on the other end was palpable.
"Damn," Yvette finally said, awe coloring her voice. The mighty Fraser is so easy
you land such a man? I'm really jealous."
"What about Xavier?" Summer asked.
for:
you. How did
"Don't even compare them," Yvette scoffed. "Next to your husband, Xavier might as well be buried six feet under. Fortunately, my expectations are correspondingly low."
Yvette's tone became serious. "Listen, stop overthinking. If you love him, tell him. Even powerful men need reassurance sometimes. Now I've got a shoot - go deal with your billionaire romance problems."
The call had barely ended when Julia's number flashed on Summer's screen.
"Summer! Tell me it's true about the Graham Group shares!" Julia's voice quivered with barely contained excitement.
"Yes, it's true."
A dramatic gasp. "I mean, not that I care about the money; a mother only cares about her daughter's happiness. But this proves how much he appreciates you!"
Summer couldn't help but tease, "Weren't you the one who said he was too arrogant last month?"
& mother can he wennel tulis evolined 'I
Matters of The Heart
The whiplash from Julia's change in attitude made Summer dizzy. Still, she had to admit there. was a twisted logic to it.
"By the way," Summer said casually, "you never sent me the household register."
"I'm sending it express today!" Julia practically shouted. "Get to the registrar's office before he changes his mind!"
Summer thought, the power of money could make even the staunchest of critics do a complete about-face. Part of me wondered if Fraser had planned this all along – using his wealth as the ultimate romantic trap.
At the end of the day, Summer deliberately waited until after rush hour to avoid her star-struck employees. The last thing she needed was more gawking, especially when they saw the man behind her sudden wealth.
The parking garage was quiet as she stepped out. Fraser leaned against the car, phone in hand, looking every inch the corporate titan even in this casual pose. He slipped the device into his pocket when he spotted her.
Before Fraser could take a step, Summer darted past him like a fugitive, yanking open the passenger door and throwing herself inside with impressive agility.
Fraser blinked at the empty space where she'd been. When already buckled in, staring resolutely ahead.
e turned around, Summer was
His male pride slightly wounded, he slid into the driver's seat. "That was... sneaky."
Am I some kind of embarrassment now?
Summer ignored the jab and turned to face him, one hand resting on the center console. "Is there anything you forgot to tell me? Just full disclosure."
Is this... a check-up?
Fraser's brow furrowed. "Having you alone makes my head spin; how do I have time to mess around?"
Not that!
Summer huffed. "Why did you give me 20% of the Graham Group?"
Understanding dawned. "Ah."
In one swift motion, Summer grabbed his tie and pulled him closer. "Was this some kind of plan? To make me feel guilty so I'd stop giving you attitude? Turn me into some obedient, grateful!"
Fraser couldn't help but laugh. "What kind of twisted logic is that? Maybe I was just trying to be good to you."
Mathers of The Hient
"Men always want something in return. I don't want the shares
Fraser sighed and reached up to tuck a stray hair behind her ear "But I want you
to have them No strings attach
Send Gifts
Chapter 380
Night Market
Summer let out a huff. "I just don't want it!"
"What is it going to take for you to accept it? I beg you, accept it please." Fraser had never stooped so low in his life as to beg a woman to take the money he offered.
Hearing this, Summer suppressed the smile that threatened to curl her lips. After a moment, she pursed her lips and said, "Only if it's your own choice. I'm not forcing you."
"Yes, yes,
it is my voluntary decision to give 20% of the Graham Group's shares to the beautiful and kind Ms. Stewart.
Summer's lips twitched upward as she looked at him. "Well, since you're so sincere, I suppose I'll reluctantly accept."
Fraser raised a lazy brow, his eyes narrowing slightly.
Why did I feel like I was being played?
On the drive home, Summer's stomach growled.
As the car passed the bustling night market she used to frequent, she turned to the man behind the wheel. "I'm hungry."
Fraser looked at her, reached into the console, and pulled out two chocolate bars. "We'll be home soon. Take these for now."
How boring.
Summer's enthusiasm waned, and she didn't take them,
Fraser raised an eyebrow. "Not your taste?" He opened the compartment and
took out a small bag of snacks. "Then take something from here."
Summer looked inside cookies, milk, whole wheat bread, and other dry goods. "Why do you have so much?"
"In case you get hungry. I had someone stock the car."
She closed the bag. "I don't want any of it."
Fraser's dark eyes scanned the area, landing on a couple of upscale restaurants. He pulled over.
The sleek black luxury car drew curious glances from passersby.
"Wait here. Tell me what you want, and I'll go get it."
Night Market
Once outside, Fraser frowned as Summer headed for the night market but followed anyway.
The vibrant night market stretched before them, lined with brightly lit shops and teeming with people. The central sidewalk was packed, everyone clutching tasty snacks, their chatter lost in the crowd. In the middle of the street, performers dressed as fairies in elaborate costumes added to the lively atmosphere.
Fraser quickened his pace, putting an arm around Summer's shoulders to shield her from the jostling crowd.
"Looks like we've never done this before."
Summer grinned. "This kind of activity doesn't really fit the Bossman image, does it?"
Fraser pulled her closer to the side. "Are you mocking me?"
Summer eyed him. "Have you ever been to a night market in Havenbrook?"
Fraser replied flatly, "No."
He didn't see the appeal - crowds, long lines for street food, questionable hygiene.
"Why not?"
"No girlfriend."
Summer blinked.
Was that a jab at me for dragging him here? This man sure knew how to throw shade.
Suddenly, she spotted a familiar shop that she had visited with Yvette during their school days. Surprisingly, it was still there after all these years.
The modest place, with its aged wooden sign hanging above it, was crowded.
She stopped and pointed. "I want yogurt."
Fraser eyed the worn-out shop with disgust. "Is it even clean?"
The owner, handing a bowl to another customer, overheard and scowled. "We've been in business 20 years, sir. Our food is clean and delicious, and we have many regular customers. Don't badmouth us and scare away customers."
Summer leaned close to Fraser's ear. "It's common sense not to criticize a place in front of the
owner.
Oh, so now I lacked common sense?
Fraser looked down at her. "If you really want it, I can have the staff make it at home."
Night Market
When did he become so old-fashioned?
"I want this one."
She lifted her clear, bright eyes, shining with a soft, pleading look.
Fraser was defenseless against those eyes. With a sigh, he pulled out his phone and scanned the QR code.
2 dollars.
The owner ladled out a generous bowl, sprinkling some fruit on top. "Here you go, miss."