Ch. 391..400
Chapter 391
A Promise Sealed
Even Summer had nearly forgotten about it.
Fraser parked the car, turned toward her, and fixed his dark gaze on the woman in
the passenger
scat.
Her eyes were bright and clear, her lashes long and thick, fluttering like butterfly wings,
"We're here."
His deep, magnetic voice carried a subtle trace of nervousness.
After a pause, Summer clasped her hands together and spoke softly, almost in a whisper. "I didn't bring my ID."
Fraser pressed a button on the center console, which clicked open.
He pulled out two IDs and looked straight at her with those deep-set eyes. His voice dropped into a low, coaxing tone. "I brought them."
Julia had mailed the IDs over.
Summer had tucked them into a drawer, never expecting him to find them.
Fraser reached over and gently tilted her chin up, turning her face to his.
Their eyes met. Something unspoken passed between them.
"Sorry," he said. "I wanted it to feel special. That's why I waited until today."
"Okay."
Summer's breath hitched.
She looked up at the golden letters on the Civil Affairs Bureau sign, and her heart began to beat out of rhythm.
Fraser got out and walked around to open her door.
He reached out a hand, long and elegant, his voice husky and smooth. "Darling, please step out."
Summer took a deep breath, hesitated, then placed her hand in his and stepped down.
Just as she got out-
Something cold slipped onto her ring finger.
She looked down and saw a modest diamond ring.
A Promise Sealed
her finger.
Definitely not the sapphire ring from the proposal.
She blinked. "What's this?"
Fraser reached out and gently touched the top of her head, his tone full of affection. "It's my mom's wedding ring. I'll get you a better one later.
Neither of them mentioned the sapphire ring.
He always understood her so well.
He knew that the sapphire ring would remind her of Pudding-
Fraser had once given her a sapphire bracelet.
She'd looked it up-sapphires symbolized "eternal love."
She knew how rare and expensive that sapphire ring had been.
But because of the wound it carried in her heart.
He didn't want her to wear it anymore.
Fraser held her hand tightly, his black eyes impossibly deep. like he was afraid she'd pull the ring off. His voice trembled slightly. "That proposal might not have been perfect, but you said yes. So. Summer, you're not allowed to back out now." Her eyes sparkled, like stars swaying in the lake's reflection. She curved her lips into a bright smile.
She teased, "Mr. Fraser, if we don't hurry, the Civil Affairs Bureau is gonna close." Fraser paused, then his lips curved up, his dark eyes glowing with a soft smile.
He took her hand and led her toward the entrance, every step steady and sincere.
His tall frame cast a long shadow that completely enveloped her.
As if to say: whatever comes, he'll take it on for her, protect her from it all.
Their joined hands were warm and slightly sticky.
She couldn't tell if it was his sweat or hers.
Suddenly, a thought popped into Summer's head, and she pulled him to a stop.
Fraser turned to her, a flicker of nervousness in his expression. "What is it?" Chapter 391 A Promise Sealed
After all, the financial gap between them was pretty wide.
If-if they ever got divorced, she'd be entitled to half his fortune.
Fraser's voice dropped, low and rough. "Summer, what kind of nonsense is going through that head of yours, huh?"
She caught the hint of irritation in his tone and stuck out her tongue. "Just asking, y'know, for the record. Don't say I didn't warn you."
The next second, his arm wrapped around her waist, pulling her flush against him. Above her head, his voice came, serious and firm, each word carved with intent.
"Summer, listen to me. Unless one of us dies, there's no such thing as separating. Not in this. lifetime."
Send Gifts
The two of them entered the Civil Affairs Bureau, took a number from the machine, and made their way to window number 8.
Chapter 392
Sealed in Red
Fraser handed over the household registration book.
The clerk took it and checked the details carefully. After a while, she looked up and asked, "Where's your wedding photo?"
At that, Fraser and Summer exchanged a look.
They hadn't taken one.
It was their first time registering for marriage-neither of them had experience.
Seeing their reaction, the clerk didn't seem surprised. She pointed to the room next door. "Go next door and take your wedding photo, then come back."
Fraser and Summer headed into the photography room.
It was simple-a red backdrop stretched across the wall, and a large, square camera was set up in front.
Fraser was dressed in a custom white shirt and black trousers. Tall and upright, he stood with rare formality.
Summer wore a loose-fitting blue and white dress, fresh and elegant, her eyes bright and full of
life.
She stood beside him, their clothing brushing lightly.
They both stood straight, close enough to hear each other's heartbeats-thump, thump.
The photographer looked through the lens, adjusting the angle over and over. Once he found the perfect shot, he called out loudly, "Alright, smile!"
As the flash went off-
Fraser's left hand naturally found Summer's right, and both of them smiled toward the camera.
Click.
The photo was taken.
For a moment, time seemed to freeze just for them.
Ten minutes later.
Summer accepted the finished photo from the photographer.
Her slender fingers gently rubbed over the small red image.
Sealed in Red
Summer had seen Fraser smile at her countless times.
He'd smiled with amusement, with cool detachment, with teasing charm. with quiet pride.
But this smile-genuine. brilliant, and as warm as the morning sun-made her eyes sting with heat.
Her voice turned a little hoarse. "This might be the first photo we've ever taken together."
Fraser looked down at the photo too. his voice soft and magnetic. "If you want, we can take one every year from now on.
Summer gave him a playful glance. "Planning to get married a lot, are you?"
His dark eyes locked on hers, so deep they could drown her. "I only want to marry you."
Summer couldn't help rising on tiptoe, leaning in until her rosy lips brushed against his ear. Her warm breath tickled as she whispered, "Fraser, you look sinfully good in that photo."
Fraser's ears turned faintly pink.
A while later, they returned to window number 8.
They handed over the freshly taken wedding photo.
After verifying their information, the clerk pasted the photos onto two small red booklets.
Thud.
The official marriage stamp came down hard onto the
pages.
Summer felt the man beside her tremble slightly. It was so subtle, anyone not paying attention would've missed it.
She reached out and clasped his hand tightly, weaving her fingers between his.
The clerk handed over their marriage certificates. "Congratulations-you're officially married."
They walked out of the Civil Affairs Bureau.
Summer looked down, studying the two red booklets in her hand with fascination.
So this was marriage?
Even though people had been calling her "Mrs. Graham" for a while now,
Seeing their names on those documents made the title feel real for the first time, crashing over her like a wave.
The next second Fraser plucked the marriage certificate from her hands
Sealed in Red
barely noticeable. "From now on, I'll be the one keeping the important documents at home."
Maybe it was because he was acting so unlike himself today.
But Summer found him irresistibly adorable, and her heart melted.
She bit her lip, rose on her toes, and whispered softly by his ear. "Husband."
Fraser's gaze flickered. In the next second, his long arms pulled her into a tight embrace, holding her close, burying his face into the crook of her neck. His arms were warm and strong.
Summer could hear the steady, powerful thrum of his heartbeat.
After a while, she heard his low, hoarse voice. "You're finally mine."
Summer smiled, gently running her fingers through his short hair.
"Yeah. I'm finally yours. And you're mine."
She felt something wet against her neck.
Startled, she asked quietly, "Fraser... are you crying?"
He didn't answer.
Chapter 393
Mrs Graham
The two of them stood there in silence, wrapped in each other's arms.
Sunlight spilled through the clouds, casting a warm glow in front of the Civil Affairs Bureau, softening the shadows around them.
Passersby were used to seeing couples like this outside the registry office.
But this man and woman-well, their looks were impossible to ignore.
People couldn't help but steal a few extra glances as they walked by.
After a while, Fraser lifted his head.
Summer looked at his reddened eyes and leaned in to kiss the corner of them.
His lashes trembled slightly.
Summer smiled, her voice as soft and sweet as a summer breeze. "I love you."
They returned home from the Civil Affairs Bureau.
But the moment Summer stepped through the door, she couldn't shake the feeling that this house didn't quite fit a newlywed couple.
And in just a few months, their baby would be born.
Any mother would want to give their child the best possible home-something that truly felt like a fresh start, a real place of their own.
Summer was no different.
"Do you have another place?" she asked.
Fraser raised an eyebrow. "Where do you want to live?"
She thought about it. "Somewhere a bit bigger. Close to a school and a hospital. Good transportation. Room for two housekeepers."
As she listed her preferences, she looked up and saw Fraser staring at her intently.
She touched her face. "What is it?"
His dark eyes didn't waver, and his lips curved into a faint smile. "You're really something right
now.
Summer blinked. "Something like what?"
Mrs Graham
Her face instantly flushed.
Fraser kissed her pink cheeks, humming happily as he strolled into the kitchen.
Summer curled up on the sofa, scrolling through her phone. Every so often, she'd glance at the tall figure moving around in the kitchen.
Honestly, getting married hadn't changed much.
They'd already been living together for a while.
This just made it official.
Now she had every right to say-he's mine. Hands off.
She was still looking at her phone when a post popped up in her feed out of nowhere.
It had been posted half an hour ago.
It was a photo of their marriage certificate.
The caption read, "Mrs. Graham. Here's to a bright future."
Summer blinked.
Fraser almost never posted on social media.
His Facebook feed had only ever included a few finance articles and the
occasional picture of Pudding playing around.
Sure enough, she opened his profile and scrolled down-there it was: a photo of
Pudding mid- leap, biting a rubber ring.
Still fluffy. Still cute. Still proud and smug.
She remembered when she'd first picked him up as a stray.
He was just a tiny thing then, filthy and injured.
But he relied on her. Every time she brought scraps of food, his round little eyes
tail would wag like crazy.
The memory still made her heart ache.
She let herself be sad for one minute. Just one.
Then she wiped her eyes.
lit
up, and his
Because the best way to honor Pudding's memory... was for her and Fraser to live a happy life.
Mrs Graham
She made a post of her own.
Mr. Fraser. Let's make it a good life.
She attached the photo of their marriage certificate.
Right after she hit "post," her phone exploded with messages-ping after ping like bamboo shoots. breaking through the earth.
She took one look, turned off the screen, and got up from the couch.
One step at a time, she walked into the kitchen.
Fraser stood at the stove, tall and broad-shouldered.
He'd rolled up the sleeves of his white shirt, revealing lean, muscular arms as he seared steaks. with practiced ease.
Summer walked up behind him and wrapped her arms around his waist, resting her head against his solid back and breathing in the comforting scent of him.
Fraser was mid-cook when he felt the soft weight of her against him. He paused.
"Why aren't you resting in the living room?"
"Honey,"
Her voice was soft and sweet, with just a hint of a pout.
"Mm?"
Fraser's eyes grew even gentler. His throat bobbed slightly-her voice tugged at something deep. inside him.
Summer's fingertips played lightly with the hem of his shirt. "You haven't said it back yet."
His brow arched, eyes shifting.
Then his deep voice rumbled, low and gravelly, like crushed velvet. "Wife. I love you too."
Later that night, after dinner and showers...
Summer lounged lazily on the bed, half-reclined as she scrolled through
messages and returned calls.
Chapter 394
Husband and Wife
Even classmates she hadn't seen in over ten years were popping up on Facebook, sending long-forgotten greetings.
Yvette was especially excited-she begged for a video call, wanted to meet up immediately, but Summer gently calmed her down.
It was her wedding night. She wanted it to be just the two of them.
Suddenly, Lucas left a comment under her latest post. Congratulations.
Fraser stepped out of the bathroom, shirtless, with nothing but a white towel slung low around his waist. He walked out with quiet confidence and an effortlessly sexy
air.
He came straight to the bed and scooped her into his arms.
"What are you looking at so intently?"
Summer put her phone aside-no way was she letting her jealous man get upset over a name from the past.
Breathing in the fresh scent of his shower, she wriggled playfully in his embrace.
His Adam's apple was sharp and tempting. She couldn't help but kiss it, her voice sweet and teasing. "Right now? I'm looking at you."
Fraser's eyes darkened, burning into hers. He ran his hand through her hair, and his voice rolled over her like warm whiskey. "Yeah? Then you better look closely- watch how I love you."
And with that, he gently pressed her down beneath him.
Everything unfolded naturally.
Summer's eyes sparkled with affection as she gave herself to him fully, warmth and desire rising
in waves.
The vanity mirror captured her flushed cheeks, glowing with the heat of his touch. Her entire body bloomed with color, her skin tinged with a rosy blush that came only from deep, genuine love.
Fraser was endlessly tender. Gone was the usual intensity that came in crashing waves. This time, their connection felt like a quiet stream-gentle, soothing, profound.
It was so beautiful, it almost didn't feel real.
The joy of being newly married-
Maybe it was because the other person had truly become the most important person in their life.
3:34PM
Husband and Wife
So instead, they let their warmth speak for them, inch by inch, heart to heart.
Julia returned from overseas a few days later.
Summer and Fraser went to the airport to pick her up..
When Julia walked out with her luggage and spotted Fraser waiting in the arrivals hall, her eyes lit up. But her expression stayed cool, maintaining the grace and poise of a mother-in-law with high standards.
Fraser stepped forward like a gentleman, taking the suitcase from her. He glanced at Summer, then looked at Julia and said, "Mom, we came to bring you home."
Julia was caught off guard for a moment by the word Mom, then a smile tugged at the corners of her lips as she handed him the suitcase.
Back at the Stewart family's villa-
The house was buzzing with activity. The staff had laid out a stunning spread of food.
During dinner, Julia asked a few polite questions.
Fraser responded with steady ease, his natural elegance never overshadowing the respect in his
tone.
But throughout the meal, his focus never left Summer.
He peeled shrimp and placed the meat on a white porcelain plate for her. He picked out fish bones before gently setting the tender fillet in her bowl. His movements were practiced and casual-it was clear he'd done this many times before.
Julia noticed everything.
Summer looked up and met her gaze. "Mom, we've registered our marriage."
Julia wasn't surprised.
After all, she'd mailed their IDs back. She knew this day was coming.
She turned to Fraser. "So when are you planning the wedding?"
Summer pressed her lips together. "I'm almost seven months along. The plan is to
wait until after the baby's born, then we'll see.
Julia didn't reply immediately. Her expression darkened slightly.
Summer continued, "It was my idea. Honestly, it's our life. Whether we have a wedding or not doesn't really matter to me. I've never been a fan of big, complicated events."
Julia set down her fork. "Summer, don't talk nonsense. You married into the Graham familu And
Husband and Wife
Fraser placed his hand over Summer's on the table, his voice calm and steady. "Mom's right. That's why once Summer gives birth, I'll hold a proper, grand wedding for her."
Only then did Julia's expression soften.
"And the dowry, the jewelry, everything will be done properly. We're preparing to transfer 2.88 billion to the Stewart family."
Summer blinked. "Didn't you already give me 20% of the Graham Group shares? That's more than enough..."
Fraser's gaze deepened, his eyes like stars reflected in still water. His voice was low and magnetic. "That was my promise. You'll have everything other people have-and more. My wife deserves. nothing less than the best."
Summer started to respond, "But-"
Julia cut her off with a smile. "Fraser knows how to follow tradition. Let's eat."
Summer stepped out of the bathroom.
She saw Julia seated on the main armchair, dignified as ever. Fraser was slouched on the opposite couch, head bowed slightly, lost in thought.
Chapter 395
A Place to Call Home
The two of them seemed deep in conversation when Summer walked over.
She caught the tail end-Fraser's low voice saying, “I will."
Summer quickly stepped in, grabbing his hand. "Mom, it's getting late. We're heading home.
now."
Julia glanced at her. Girls really do grow up fast.
She stood as well. "Summer, only three months to go. Fraser, take good care of her."
The luxury Ferrari cruised smoothly through the city streets, the neon lights dotting every corner like strokes of color in a magnificent painting.
Fraser kept his eyes on the road, driving with casual ease.
Summer couldn't help but ask, "What were you and my mom talking about?"
Fraser gave her a sidelong glance, one hand on the wheel, the other resting on her belly. "Just told me not to bully you."
"Really?"
Summer wasn't quite convinced.
Julia knew perfectly well he'd already given her 20% of Graham Group shares,
and now she'd accepted a 2.88 billion dowry without blinking.
Summer knew her mom meant well-she wanted her daughter to be protected. But still, it left at
sour taste.
Fraser arched a brow. "Not happy?"
Her tone was a little sullen. "Twenty percent of Graham Group is already a lot." Especially when she hadn't contributed a single thing to the company.
Fraser let out a soft chuckle, lips curving. "Feeling sorry for me, Mrs. Graham?”
Summer shot him a look, clearly unimpressed, and brushed his hand off before turning to look out the window.
"I just think marriage should be about love. Not about squeezing every kind of security out of
each other."
Fraser didn't seem to mind. "Your mom's just thinking ahead-for your sake."
I....biz had-led of him ha
A Place to Call Home
She'd looked him in the eye and said. "The Graham family and the Stewart family are still worlds apart. So for Summer's future-and the baby's-what can you promise me?"
Fraser had taken a moment, then said, "I'll transfer all my real estate to Summer's name."
That caught Julia off guard.
She hadn't expected him to go that far.
As the wealthiest man in Havenbrook, Fraser's real estate portfolio included high- end properties. all over the world, private islands, priceless antiques, and rare treasures.
And even with a marriage certificate, that kind of asset trail would be nearly impossible to trace.
It was then Julia truly believed he loved her daughter.
"Fraser," she'd said, "please understand this from a mother's point of view. Carrying the title 'Mrs. Graham' comes with pressure-for our family, too. What if one day... you two divorce-"
Fraser had cut her off. "I get it. That's why I'm doing this on my own. But please don't tell Summer."
Now, in the car, Summer turned to him and poked his firm arm. "Anyway, I'm telling her about the dowry. That's non-negotiable."
Fraser's eyes crinkled, and his smile deepened. His voice was low but firm. "Summer, you have to understand. You're the rose that bloomed in the middle of my barren land. You're the one who made my heart race for the first time. If money can bring me a life with you, then I'll create as much of it as I have to."
Her eyes shimmered instantly, and her throat tightened.
"You really are an idiot," she whispered.
The Ferrari slowly turned into the Starlight Compound neighborhood.
Summer recognized the place right away.
It was one of Havenbrook's newest high-end developments, covering a massive area. The community featured both Western-style villas and modern penthouse towers.
It was fully equipped with top-tier amenities-golf courses, helipads, you name it.
And its location was unbeatable-right in the city center, yet surrounded by lush forest. A serene oasis in the heart of the bustle.
Everyone who lived here was either rich or powerful.
The Ferrari finally came to a stop in front of a three-story
A Place to Call Home
Summer blinked. "Where is this?"
Fraser smiled. "Our new home."
He took her hand and led her along the stone path to the front door.
As it opened, the living room unfolded before them-surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows, decorated in a sleek, luxurious style. A grand Steinway piano stood in one corner. Outside, the pale blue water of the pool rippled gently beneath the lights.
Summer took it all in, then walked upstairs.
She opened one of the doors.
The entire room was bathed in soft pinks. A wardrobe with pastel panels stood by
the wall, full of baby clothes. Toys and little decorations filled the shelves. It was
cozy, sweet, and thoughtfully arranged.
Chapter 396
Our Little Universe
Summer smiled. "What makes you so sure it's not a boy?"
Fraser raised a brow and walked a few steps to the next room, opening the door with his arms. crossed. He gave her a little chin tilt.
Summer followed him-and saw another nursery, nearly identical in layout to the pink one. except this one was all blue.
She hadn't expected him to be this thoughtful.
Fraser's voice was low and lazy, with a teasing smile behind it. “If it's a baby girl, she gets the pink room. If it's a little rascal, he gets the blue one."
Summer blinked. "And what if there's a leftover room?"
Fraser lowered his head, his gaze washing over her profile. His voice dipped, warm and tempting. "Then in three years... we make another one."
Summer shot him a look. "You wish."
Her cheeks turned pink. Fraser, clearly delighted, wrapped both arms around her and pulled her closer, their bodies flush against each other. His charming gaze locked onto hers.
"What was that post all about, hmm?"
Summer's eyes stayed fixed on his shirt collar, her fingers gently tugging at his tic. Her voice came out soft and sweet. "You posted first,"
Fraser's lips curved into a slow grin. "Did I?"
It was just two words, but the way he said them-lazy and smug-sent a little shiver down her spine,
Then he leaned in, his voice grazing her ears like velvet. "Now everyone knows we're married."
Summer rolled her eyes. "Like they didn't already know."
"It's not the same."
"What's not?"
He bent down and nipped lightly at her earlobe, his breath hot against her skin. "Now I'm your legal guardian. No more abandoning your husband and child."
And just like that, they moved into the villa in Starlight Compound.
Our Little Universe
the garden-not to mention dozens of other flowers she couldn't name.
Sure, she knew technology was behind it.
→
But that didn't stop the vibrant colors and sheer life of the place from lifting her spirits every time she stepped outside.
On quiet afternoons, she even joined the housekeepers in trimming and caring for the plants.
One day, Summer was stunned to discover-Fraser could play the piano.
He sat gracefully at the grand Steinway, carrying the aura of royalty. His long fingers danced effortlessly over the keys, bringing forth waves of melody from black and white.
Sometimes the music was thunderous, crashing like waves against the rocks; other times, it was like a spring bubbling through a quiet forest.
The air around Fraser radiated a powerful kind of attraction that made Summer's heart skip a beat.
As the last note faded, Fraser looked up, his eyes dark and deep, locking onto her. A devilish smile played on his lips as he crooked a finger. "Come here."
It was like she was under a spell. Heart pounding, she stepped toward him, one breath at a time.
7.7.
Soon after, those same elegant fingers were tracing music across her body-raw and chaotic, written just for the two of them.
Summer also adored their bedroom.
Fraser had designed a special feature: the ceiling could transform into a transparent glass dome. Lying in bed, they could stargaze together, basking under
a sky full of stars. It was peaceful, comforting.
When the weather was nice, she would stand on the small European-style balcony and see the distant city skyline-including the iconic Graham Group tower.
Xavier had once offered to gift them a newborn Samoyed as a wedding present.
But both Summer and Fraser declined.
Because no one could ever replace Pudding.
As Summer's belly grew larger, so did her sleepiness. She spent more and more time at home.
A team of nutritionists, housekeepers, doctors, and wellness experts surrounded her every day. Julia stopped by often to check in, every few days.
Summer had basically become a national treasure-well-fed, well-kept, and well- protected.
He'd quietly walk to her bedside, bend down, press a kiss to her forehead, tuck
the blanket around. her shoulders, then head into the study to work.
And when he was done, he'd return, climb into bed, and pull her into his arms as they drifted off together.
But today-
Summer couldn't take it anymore. She was done being cooped up.
So she made plans to meet Yvette and get some fresh air.
They ended up at a baby store.
They already had more than enough clothes for both a boy and a girl at home.
But none of it had been chosen by Summer herself.
She hadn't felt that sense of joy or anticipation-no hands-on experience.
No memories.
Chapter 397
Only a Tool
Summer picked up a baby onesie and asked Yvette, "What do you think of this one?"
Yvette wasn't familiar with baby clothes, but the little bunnies on it were adorable. "It's cute."
Summer tossed the onesie into her shopping basket and kept browsing.
Then she spotted an adorable little dress shirt, complete with a tiny gentleman's bowtie.
"How about this one?"
Yvette glanced from the girl's outfit Summer had picked up earlier to this one for a boy. Her curiosity got the best of her.
"So, do you think it's a boy or a girl? You're this far along-have you done a scan?"
A soft maternal glow lit up Summer's face. She smiled warmly. "I haven't checked. Fraser says he hopes it's a girl."
Yvette burst out laughing. "Summer, seriously-do you even realize how many times you've mentioned Fraser since we started shopping?"
"Did I?"
"Of course you did! Want me to count? You're giving full-on blissed-out-wife energy right now."
Summer's checks flushed pink.
They paid and strolled out of the mall at a leisurely pace. Just ahead, the towering Graham Group building came into view.
Yvette teased, "They say Graham Group is a Havenbrook landmark. As the CEO's wife, Summer, can't you give me a little tour? Maybe do a surprise check-in while we're at it?"
Summer had only ever been to Graham Group either to ask Fraser for help or when he brought her himself.
Other than that, she hadn't gone.
"Fraser's probably busy. It's not really the best time."
"What do you mean? You're Mrs. Graham now. Come on!"
Summer couldn't win the argument and ended up getting dragged along by Yvette.
From the moment Yvette stepped into Graham Group's lobby, she was floored by the sheer opulence.
Only a Tool
Everyone working there recognized Summer and greeted her with deep respect.
- Pearls
The two made their way easily to the executive elevator, which took them all the way to the top floor.
Something about this surprise visit made Summer uneasy. She turned to Yvette. "Maybe we should head back. We can come another time.
Yvette, giddy with excitement, pulled her out of the elevator. "We're already here Just think of it as giving Fraser a surprise. Plus, I've always wanted to see what a billionaire CEO's office looks like."
When the secretarial staff saw Summer approach, they all stood up in unison and greeted her respectfully: "Good afternoon, Madam Graham."
Summer waved them off. "Carry on. Don't mind us."
And just like that, the two of them stood at the office door
Summer raised her hand to knock.
But from inside, voices drifted out.
"My dear nephew, I heard you gave that woman twenty percent of Graham Group's shares. She must mean a great deal to you, hmm?"
A slow, cold laugh followed.
Fraser's deep voice was devoid of any emotion, just a dismissive scoff
"Women are all the same. Her only value is in continuing the Graham bloodline. Once she delivers the next generation, she'll have no more use."
"Ha! Well said, Fraser! To do great things, one mustn't be weighed down by petty emotions. Once that great-nephew of mine is born, I'll make sure to send a generous gift as your uncle."
Summer's raised hand slowly lowered.
Next to her, Yvette had heard every word. She froze, then started trembling with fury. Her chest heaved as she stepped forward, ready to burst through the door.
But Summer grabbed her wrist.
Yvette's voice shook with rage. "Summer, let me go. What the hell did Fraser just say? What does he mean by that? What does he mean just for the bloodline?!"
Summer's voice was calm. "Let's go
home."
"No way! I don't care if he's Havenbrook royalty-how dare he say something like that?"
Only a Tool
Each word from Summer was steady and deliberate.
Seeing the pale look on her friend's face, Yvette backed down in alarm.
+B Pearls
Summer was far along. The baby could come any day now. She couldn't afford any emotional shocks right now.
"Okay, okay, fine. Don't get worked up. We'll go back, just like you said."
Yvette wanted nothing more than to slap herself.
Why had she insisted on dragging Summer to Graham Group?
If they hadn't come, none of this would've happened.
No-this wasn't her fault.
How could Fraser say something so heartless?
Did he really see Summer as nothing more than a baby machine?
Back at the Starlight Compound.
Summer slowly made her way to the piano.
She stood there, fingers brushing the black and white keys.
A scattered, uneven melody began to emerge from her hands, one note at a time.
Chapter 398
Silent Cracks
Yvette watched Summer with deep concern, afraid she might do something rash.
But Summer didn't move. She just sat quietly, eyes downcast, staring at the piano keys. Her stillness was almost too calm.
Yvette hesitated before speaking.
Cr, maybe Fraser has his reasons. When he gets back, we'll talk to him properly. You're
almost at full term-you can't let your thoughts spiral, okay?"
She wanted to say more, but seeing Summer's visibly pregnant belly, she held back, afraid of saying the wrong thing.
Summer pulled her hands away from the piano, her tone slow and steady. "Okay. I understand."
Just then, a maid walked over from the kitchen, carrying a bowl of bird's nest
soup.
"Ma'am, you haven't had your soup today."
Summer said, "Just leave it. I'm not really hungry."
The maid placed the bowl on the table, then remembered something. "Mr. Fraser said he had to leave on an emergency business trip for a couple of days. He told you not to wait up and to get
some rest."
Yvette's freshly calmed nerves flared back to life in an instant.
"What? What's that supposed to mean? A business trip? At a time like this?"
Summer lowered her eyes. "You can go," she said to the maid.
The maid glanced at the fuming Yvette, then back at the unnervingly composed Summer before quietly retreating.
Yvette felt like she was about to explode, but couldn't-she was too worried it would affect the baby. It was somehow even worse than finding out her own boyfriend had cheated.
Her eyes were red with fury.
Summer said gently, "Yvette, I know you're worried. Don't worry. I'm not overthinking things."
Hearing that, Yvette looked at her closely.
After all these years of friendship, she could read Summer's moods better than anyone.
And for the first time, she realized this wasn't fake composure. Summer was genuinely calm.
Silent Cracks
Summer gently touched her belly, her gaze steady. "Yeah. I believe him."
In the days that followed, Fraser's work became increasingly demanding. He left early, came home late, and his visits to the Starlight Compound grew shorter and more sporadic.
Summer, deep into her pregnancy, was constantly sleepy. She often went to bed early and sometimes didn't even know if Fraser had come home.
The next morning, she would ask the maids and find out that yes, he had-just very late..
But a growing unease took root in her heart, a vague sense that something was looming just beyond the horizon.
And her baby's movements grew more frequent in the middle of the night.
Every time the baby stirred around midnight, Summer, half-asleep, would feel a familiar hand. gently caressing her belly-soothing, comforting, familiar.
And each time, the baby would slowly settle.
She knew it was Fraser's hand. His touch. His presence.
She always wanted to wake up and speak to him.
But she was just too tired.
At Graham Group.
Fraser stood in front of the floor-to-ceiling window, tall and straight, expression unreadable. His dark gaze stared out at the city.
Mike stood behind him, delivering a report.
"Mr. Fraser, after the consortium meeting, August teamed up with some minor shareholders and sold their Graham Group shares to Brandon. Brandon doesn't hold a large share yet, but he's been moving aggressively behind the scenes. The recent incident with the Ningde North project? Turns out his people were behind it. And from what we've heard, he's also been interfering with the upcoming overseas expansion-trying to profit from the chaos."
Fraser's expression didn't change, like he had already expected this. "What's the status of Brandon's chemical plant in Oblistan?"
"We've submitted evidence of his illegal operations in Oblistan. It's just a matter of days before his entire enterprise gets shut down."
Mike hesitated. "We're just worried Brandon might go rogue once he finds out. He could become reckless and dangerous."
Silent Cracks
Mike looked at Fraser.
Recently, Brandon had been making a big show of entering Havenbrook, loudly
and publicly acquiring Graham Group shares.
On the surface, he acted friendly and civil.
But in the shadows, he was setting traps.
Graham Group was quickly becoming a battlefield.
To Mike, Mr. Fraser had always handled every crisis with ease-decisive,
calculating, and ruthless when needed.
But when it came to Summer, everything changed.
Fraser lost his cool.
His logic, his sharp edge-it all wavered.
Meanwhile, Yvette had been doing everything she could to cheer Summer up,
worried she'd sink deeper into sadness while stuck at home.
Today, she happened to have a ribbon-cutting event to attend at a newly built hotel in Havenbrook.
Chapter 399
No Room for Tenderness
This new hotel towered eighty-eight stories high and boasted every amenity imaginable-leisure, entertainment, fine dining. It was a full-service luxury experience.
The cuisine in particular had stirred a buzz. It had been hailed as a
groundbreaking addition to Havenbrook's food scene and had quickly become a must-visit destination.
After wrapping up the ribbon-cutting ceremony. Yvette invited Summer to meet up for a bite
and a chat.
By the time the event ended, Summer had just arrived.
The two strolled through the hotel, heading toward the restaurant.
Suddenly, two tall, broad-shouldered Black bodyguards appeared in the hallway, blocking their path.
"Mrs. Graham," one of them said politely, "our boss would like a word with you."
Yvette immediately stepped in front of Summer, tense and wary. "Who's your boss? And why does he want to see Summer?"
The bodyguards, both close to two meters tall, didn't even glance at Yvette. Their eyes were fixed.
on Summer.
"Our boss is Mr. Fraser's second uncle. He's in a private room on the 77th floor. Mr. Fraser is also. present, so you don't need to worry, Mrs. Graham."
With that, Yvette and Summer were "escorted" to the 77th floor.
The bodyguards pushed open the heavy double doors of the private suite,
A wave of cigar smoke and booze rolled out, thick and suffocating.
In the center of the room sat an oval-shaped gaming table. A roulette wheel spun rapidly at its heart. Standing behind it was a woman in a tight red qipao, acting as the dealer. Around the table, well-dressed men watched with crossed arms.
At the far end of the table, Brandon and Fraser sat facing each other.
It was clearly a private casino suite.
When Brandon saw Summer enter, he tossed his cards on the table and let out a loud, guttural laugh. The scar under his left eye twisted with his grin, giving him a savage edge.
"Fraser," he drawled, "my guys saw your lovely wife walk into the hotel, so I thought I'd invite her up for a little fun. You're not gonna be stingy about it, are you?"
Summer stenned inside and immediately snotted Fraser lounging on a black leather sofa near
No Room for Tenderness
Their eyes met across the room.
She saw a flash of surprise in his gaze, followed by a deep, tense frown.
His voice was low, cold, and laced with irritation. "You're pregnant. Why aren't you at home resting?"
The others in the room exchanged knowing looks. So this Mrs. Graham wasn't as favored as the rumors claimed.
Brandon narrowed his eyes, gaze sharp and filled with malice as it flicked between Fraser and Summer. A slow, sinister smile tugged at his lips.
A woman's soft, sugary
sugary voice rang
rang out-Marilyn.
"Sir, that's no way to speak to a lady. Looks like she's pregnant. You should be gentler."
Fraser let out a lazy chuckle, his chiseled jawline giving him a dangerous charm. "Is that so? Am I being too harsh with
you then?"
Marilyn giggled. "Mr. Fraser, you're terrible."
Yvette's fists clenched. Watching Fraser flirt with another woman in front of Summer-while she was pregnant-made her want to scream.
"Fraser, how could you say that in front of her? She's carrying your child!"
Summer gently held Yvette back and glanced at Fraser. His expression was unreadable.
She bit her lip. "Alright. I'll head home."
Brandon rose from the sofa, grabbed a glass of strong liquor from the table, and casually blocked her path.
"Leaving already?
Not even a toast for
a toast for your dear uncle? That's not very polite."
He held the glass out toward her, lips curled into a mockingly polite smile. "I'm a man who values. manners. Just one drink and a proper greeting, and I'll have someone take you home."
Summer didn't take the glass.
Brandon's eyes turned sharp, his voice low and threatening.
"What, you too good for me now?"
Fraser's face turned stone cold, the veins in his hand bulging as he gripped his phone tightly. His voice, however, remained calm. "What, you're trying to mess with the Graham bloodline now?"
Brandon stared back at him, the tension in the room rising. His own expression twisted into something almost bloodthirsty. No Room for Tenderness
Just then, Summer smiled politely and spoke, calm and clear. "Sir, I'm pregnant. I really can't drink. It's not out of disrespect-I simply can't. I hope you'll understand."
Brandon's expression finally eased. He slapped his forehead lightly, as if only just remembering. "Ah, my bad. I'm getting forgetful in my old age. Didn't notice you were expecting. Don't take it personally."
Fraser glanced at Summer and said flatly. "Leave. Now."
Without another word, Summer took Yvette's hand and quickly walked out of the
Chapter 400
The Moment Arrives.
As soon as they stepped out of the suite, Yvette felt a chill run down her spine.
The atmosphere inside hadn't felt like a casual gathering-it had felt like a negotiation. A dangerous one.
There were at least a dozen bodyguards in that one private room alone.
"Summer, who was that guy? The way he looked at people-it was poisonous. When you refused. that drink, it looked like he was ready to kill.”
Summer calmly replied, "Fraser's uncle."
"Uncle? He looked straight-up insane."
Summer was about to respond when Mike came walking up, polite as ever.
"Ma'am, Mr. Fraser asked me to arrange an escort to take you home."
Yvette, still fuming, snapped, "I'll take Summer back myself. Tell Fraser to stop pretending to
care."
Summer looked at Mike, thinking for a moment. "Does Fraser have something urgent tonight?"
Mike paused, then answered honestly, "Mr. Fraser can't leave at the moment. But please believe. me, Ma'am-he's never once doubted or betrayed you."
Summer nodded. "Alright. I won't make things harder for him."
That night, Yvette stayed at the Starlight Compound.
They lay side by side on the bed.
After hearing everything, Yvette finally understood.
"So that Brandon guy's the one who killed Fraser's dad? No wonder he gave me the creeps from the moment I saw him. He radiates cold-blooded danger. I felt like I'd break out in hives just standing near him. But Summer, no matter what Fraser's reasons are, you can't just forget what he said about you-about being a baby-making tool. That's not something you just let go."
As she talked, she noticed the silence next to her. She turned her head-and froze.
Summer's forehead was drenched in cold sweat, her face pale as a sheet.
Yvette bolted upright.
Summer clutched her stomach, her face twisted in pain. "I think... I think the baby's coming."
Yvette threw the blanket off-and saw a huge wet patch on the sheets.
Her voice trembled in panic. "Y-Your water... it broke!"
She scrambled to call the house staff.
Thankfully, the Starlight Compound staff had been trained for this. They acted swiftly and calmly, immediately taking Summer to the nearby hospital that had already been arranged in
advance.
At the hospital.
The OB-GYN team was ready and waiting the moment they got the call.
Summer was covered in sweat, her hair clinging to her face. She bit her lip from the pain until her lips turned white.
Yvette was on the verge of tears. "You're going to be okay, Summer. Don't be scared. I'm calling Fraser now."
Summer managed a weak nod, teeth clenched.
And with that, the doctors wheeled her into the delivery room.
Yvette tried to follow but was stopped by the medical staff.
Outside the operating room, the red light above the door lit up, and Yvette began to pace in frantic circles.
Her hands shaking, she fumbled through her purse for her phone and called Fraser.
The dial tone rang cold and unfeeling, over and over.
But no one answered.
She kept calling, more and more furious, until she was ready to throw the phone
against the wall. Just then, Julia came rushing in.
"Where's Summer? How is she?" she asked anxiously.
Yvette's eyes were red as she recalled Summer trying so hard to endure the pain. "They just took her in!"
Julia scanned the area with wide, frantic eyes. "Where's Fraser? Isn't he supposed to be here? She's in labor!"
Left with no other choice. Julia stepped aside, gripped the necklace around her
neck, pressed her hands together, and began praying softly.
"Please, let Summer have a safe delivery
Xavier arrived not long after, having heard what happened.
But as soon as Yvette saw him, she exploded. “Summer's about to give birth and
Fraser's missing in action! Men are all trash!"
"Okay, okay-calm down. I'll try calling Fraser now.
Xavier pulled out his phone and dialed.
The line rang again.
Still no answer.
Yvette looked like she was about to explode from rage. "If anything happens to Summer or that baby, Fraser's going to regret it for the rest of his life!"
Meanwhile, back in the casino suite.
Brandon slammed his phone down, his expression turning vicious.
Crash!
He kicked the table so hard it echoed through the room.
Staring down the man across from him, his voice was like a growl. "Fraser, I really underestimated you. You've already destroyed all my foreign assets-and now you're trying to wipe me out here too?!"
Fraser lifted his eyes slowly, gaze calm and sharp. "Just returning the favor. Everything I learned -I learned from you."