Ch. 61..70
Chapter 61
A Battle of Scars
"Summer, we need to talk."
Summer looked at Peyton. Her long hair was flowing behind her, and she walked up to Summer.
Summer hadn't intended to pay her any attention, but the kidnapping incident was still unresolved. If Margaret wasn't behind it, then there was a high chance that Peyton had something to do with it.
Summer needed answers. Who was the one who had set her up?
"Alright." Summer followed Peyton back to her hospital room.
It was the exclusive VIP suite on the top floor. Rather than calling it a hospital room, the more precise description of it was a five-star hotel suite. Luxurious, spotless, and spacious. It cost about a hundred thousand dollars to spend a night here.
From what Summer knew, Payton had been living here for over a year. Money was never a problem for her.
After all, the Smith family was a prestigious family in Havenbrook, having built their fortune through branding and later expanding into the luxury retail industry. Unlike the Stewart family, which owned a comprehensive chain of shopping malls.
But despite being born into such wealth, Peyton was anything but fortunate. She was the illegitimate daughter of Bryson Smith, born by one of his mistresses- Maisie. Even worse was that Maisie was a lowly KTV hostess, a woman whose past was riddled with men whose names she probably could not even
remember.
Years ago, when Maisie brought baby Peyton to confront Bryson, demanding recognition, it was nothing short of a farce. A forced DNA test had proven that Peyton was indeed his daughter. But even so, the Smith family would never accept Maisie. Especially not when Bryson already had a legal wife.
For over twenty years, Peyton had been utterly despised by the Smith family. Bryson's wife, in particular, had never stopped trying to suppress her. So, there was no doubt Trevor was the one paying for Peyton's luxurious hospital stay. It means, even when Trevor was with Summer, he had provided Peyton with the best medical team unconditionally.
Summer cast a casual glance around the room. She had no intention of reminiscing with Peyton. Without any pretense, she got straight to the point. "Were the kidnappers that day sent by you?"
Peyton poured herself a cup of hot water; the corner of her lips curved into a smirk, tinged with malicious glee. With a probing tone, she asked, "So... did they rape you? Are you... tainted now, Summer?"
The other day at the wedding, Peyton had clearly heard the desperate phone call for help from Summer, loud and clear. Her instincts told her that the kidnapping was real. After all, Summer had always been the one on the losing side throughout all the years their paths had crossed.
Deep down, Summer was just as proud. Otherwise, how could Peyton have so effortlessly gotten Trevor away from her every single time?
On the day of the wedding, Peyton had played the game to perfection. Retreating just to advance, saying exactly what she knew would shake Trevor.
heart at all. So what if you were his girlfriend? It was nothing more than a meaningless title. If I were you, I'd cut my losses and leave while I still had a shred of dignity. There's no point making a fool of yourself any longer."
If it had been just a while ago, Summer might have wavered at these words.
But now, there was no love left in her for Trevor.
And as for Peyton's attempts to provoke her, they were nothing but laughable.
How had she ever let this woman's petty words cut so deep, keeping her awake night after night?
Summer's expression remained cold: "I have no interest in wasting words with you. Just tell me-was it you?"
Peyton let out a derisive snort. "If anyone in this world wants you gone, it's me. But do you really think I'd be stupid enough to stir up trouble on my own wedding day? Give you the perfect excuse to drag Trevor away? But judging by how disturbed you are, I bet the kidnappers actually got to you, didn't they?"
The very thought of Summer being raped seemed to ignite something in Peyton. Her expression lit up with twisted delight.
"Summer, you're completely ruined now. No one will ever want you again. Tell me, how did it feel? How did it feel to be raped by a bunch of filthy criminals? Oh, I feel just so sorry for you."
Summer stared at Peyton, watching her burst into maniacal laughter, studying every flicker of expression on her face.
That day had been Peyton's long-awaited wedding. If she had truly wanted to destroy Summer, she could have chosen any day but that day.
Besides, Peyton had always loved playing the helpless victim in front of others.
But with Summer, there was no pretense. Peyton's hatred burned openly, and her hostility was razor-sharp. If she wanted to destroy Summer, she would not resort to deception. Instead, she would do it outright with blade in hand.
Peyton had no reason to lie.
Summer's gaze dropped to the cup of steaming water in Peyton's grasp. She instinctively took two steps back. Her hand was already injured. If that scalding water landed on her, she might as well be done for.
with
Then, she smiled. "Peyton, don't celebrate too soon. You love Trevor so much, yet he never broke up me for you. That only proves that, in his heart, you're just as insignificant."
The words struck Peyton like a blade to the heart.
Yes, no matter how well Trevor had treated her over the years, he had never been
willing to give her a title and acknowledge her.
Chapter 62
The Art of Manipulation
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Finished
Peyton's face darkened, her eyes twisting into a vicious glare. "Summer, I'll be frank with you. If you know what's good for you, leave Trevor willingly. Otherwise, I'll make you regret it."
Love is a double-edged blade. The deeper you love, the deeper you bleed.
But Summer no longer loved Trevor. So, Peyton's threats could no longer cut her.
Peyton, however, was different. She still loved him.
Summer's lips curved into a mocking smile. "And what if I
say no?"
Suddenly, a knock echoed through the room. A moment later, the door handle slowly began to turn.
The instant Peyton heard it, she knew exactly who had come. A strange, icy glint flickered in her once- beautiful eyes. A glimmer of resentment, of something sinister lurking beneath.
Summer, this time, I'll make sure you suffer.
At the same time, Peyton shut her eyes, lifted the steaming cup of water in her hands, and, without hesitation, flung it straight onto herself.
"Ah!" A piercing scream shattered the air.
Scalding hot water splashed onto Peyton's delicate skin, the burning sensation spreading like wildfire, searing through her flesh. Within seconds, angry red welts bloomed across her arm and chest, the sight almost gruesome.
It had all happened in the blink of an eye.
Summer, standing to the side, had not expected Peyton to go to such extremes and harm herself so deliberately. She had assumed Peyton was about to throw the water at her and had instinctively raised her bag to shield herself.
But now, seeing Peyton's masterful self-directed performance, Summer could not help but think that Yvette should take notes. This was some next-level acting. Almost at the same moment, the door burst open with a loud bang.
Trevor stormed in, moving as fast as the wind. The moment he saw Summer, a flicker of surprise flashed in his
eyes. But then his gaze shifted and fell upon Peyton, who lay slumped on the sofa, her body drenched in
water.
His face darkened instantly. Without hesitation, he grabbed a towel and began patting her dry. His voice was sharp, accusing. "Summer, what did you do to Peyton?"
Tears welled in Peyton's eyes, two shimmering streaks rolling down her pale cheeks as she curled into Trevor's embrace. Her voice was soft, trembling with emotion.
"Trevor, I'm fine. Don't blame Summer, please. It was my own fault... I wasn't careful, and I spilled the hot water on myself."
The Art of Manipulation
seemed to notice.
Trevor immediately pulled out his phone, made a call, and got Josh to come help out.
Finished
Hearing that Peyton had been burned by hot water, Josh wasted no time. Within minutes, he stormed into the hospital room. With swift precision, he began treating Peyton's arm by cooling the burn, applying antiseptic, and doing everything he could to ease her pain.
Meanwhile, Peyton kept reassuring them in a soft, fragile voice. "Trevor, Josh, I'm fine. Luckily, the water wasn't too hot. It's really nothing."
But the implication was clear. If the water had been just a little hotter, she would have been permanently scarred... all because of Summer.
Death by a thousand cuts. Peyton had mastered this game.
Josh's fury ignited at once. He turned sharply, jabbing a finger toward Summer's face. "Summer, how could you be so cruel?! Peyton has surgery tomorrow, and yet you scalded her with hot water today? Just what kind of vicious heart do you have?!"
As the words left his mouth, his hand lifted, and he wanted to slap Summer across the face. But before he could strike, Trevor's hand shot out, blocking the blow.
Summer let out a cold, mocking laugh. “Which one of you actually saw me pour the water on her? Ever consider that she did it to herself? Or is blaming me just easier?"
A flicker of something dark like resentment, jealousy, and rage flashed through Peyton's eyes the moment Trevor stood between them. But she masked it in an instant, quickly shifting back into her delicate, pitiful act. “Summer, I know you didn't mean to hurt me. I don't blame you."
Then, she turned to Josh with a pained look, her voice trembled as she whispered, "Josh, please don't be mad at Summer. It's my fault. She doesn't like me... Everything that happened is my fault."
That was the final straw for Josh. Hearing Peyton sound so wronged, yet she was undeservingly kind and forgiving, his anger burned even hotter.
Peyton was gentle, kind, and incapable of harming anyone. If something happened to her, it could only mean one thing. Summer had set her up. Nothing else mattered at that moment. Not even the fact that Trevor was his boss.
"Trevor, let me go! I have to teach this woman a lesson today. She needs to know her place!" Josh struggled against Trevor's grip, his face flushed with anger.
Trevor, however, remained composed, his sharp gaze landing on Summer, who stood there expressionless, indifferent to the chaos unfolding around her. A flicker of something unreadable passed through his eyes before he frowned. "Josh, finish what you came here to do and leave. Don't cause trouble here."
Josh was livid. "Trevor, don't be naive! Last time, Summer forced Peyton to jump into the water. Now, she came here and scalded her with boiling water. How much more proof do you need? This woman is ruthless. She's trying to kill Peyton! If you won't punish her, then I will!"
Chapter 63
Tangled in Pride and Pain
Finished
Trevor flung Josh's hand away with a sharp motion. Josh staggered back a few steps, struggling to regain his balance.
Summer stood there, utterly speechless at the scene unfolding before her. She had not done anything, yet this Dr. Josh looked ready to come at her with fists raised. Whether Trevor was genuinely trying to protect her, she better find a way to save herself instead of relying on Trevor.
Summer pulled out her phone, switched on the camera, and aimed it at them. "Josh, if you dare lay a finger on me, I'll send this video straight to your hospital. Let's see if they suspend your medical license.
Josh's gaze snapped toward Summer. Red veins crawled through his eyes, rage simmering just beneath the surface.
This woman... she was poisonous. Nothing about her could compare to Peyton.
Josh truly could not understand what Trevor saw in someone like her.
But then he caught sight of Trevor's expression. That cold, dangerous aura seemed to darken the air around him. A sharp gleam flickered deep within those eyes.
Josh's breath hitched. A chill crept over him. For a moment, he was afraid. He took a deep breath and turned to Peyton with his voice dropped low. "Peyton, if anyone bullies you... call me. I'll be right outside the door."
Then Josh finally turn and leave the room.
Once more, there were only three people left in the room.
Peyton sat on one end of the sofa, delicate and pitiful, her fragile frame seeming to shrink into itself.
On the other side of the room, Trevor and Summer stood facing each other.
Trevor's lips were pressed into a thin, rigid line. His brows furrowed tightly, and he stared at Summer.
Ever since that day since he had stormed out of the bridal shop in a haze of confusion and anger, he hadn't been the same. By day, he buried himself in relentless work. By night, he drowned himself in alcohol, as though the bitter burn could numb the thoughts that clawed at him.
But it never worked.
Every time his mind wandered back to Summer and remembered that her first time was no longer his to claim. A fire blazed in his chest. Rage. Disgust. Guilt. A tangle of emotions he could not begin to untie.
And yet, another memory haunted him.
The marks on her skin that day in the bridal shop. The way she had used them like a weapon to stab at his pride.
Summer had once been tainted by those kidnappers. He had forced himself to accept that. But now... was she willfully throwing herself at other men as well? Just imagining it made Trevor feel like his dianity his pride ne
2 mon had heen trampled heneath her feet
Tangled in Pride and Pain
These past few days, the fury in his bones had been building, no outlet, no relief.
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And now, seeing her again, and she was still wearing that cold, indifferent expression, something inside him finally snapped.
His voice was low and cutting, each word a deliberate blow. "The hot water on Peyton... was it you who threw
it?"
Summer let out a soft laugh; her tone was light. "And what if I say no?"
Peyton's heart jolted. She had gone through so much, and she had even hurt herself to make this look convincing. If Trevor said he believed in Summer, all her efforts would be wasted.
Peyton forced a tremble into her voice, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Summer, what are you saying? Are you suggesting I poured boiling water on myself? I wasn't going to hold it against you. So why would you still accuse me?"
Trevor ignored Peyton for the moment. His eyes never left Summer. "Summer, was it you or not?"
Summer could feel the fury radiating from him, simmering just beneath the surface like a storm about to break. She could not help but let out a cold laugh.
"Trevor," she said slowly, her tone was cold, "what exactly are you so hung up on?"
Trevor's eyes reddened instantly, his jaw clenched so tightly she thought his teeth might crack. "What I'm hung up on?" he hissed.
He was hung up on the fact that her first time had not been with him.
He was hung up on the idea that, lately, she might have been throwing herself at some random man just to spite him.
He was hung up on her body no longer being clean in his eyes.
It ate away at him. Drove him mad.
Trevor felt like a fool, wearing a green hat that symbolizes infidelity!
And yet, Summer showed not the slightest hint of regret, and she acted as if none of it was her fault.
He wanted nothing more than to drag her back, scrub her clean, erase every mark of every man who was not him. But deep down, he knew... some of this was his fault, too.
He forced in a breath, his voice lower, struggling for control. "This time," he said,
"if you tell me it wasn't you, I'll believe you."
Peyton's face drained of color, her mind reeling.
What?
She had scalded herself with boiling water, gone through so much pain to pull this
off, and yet, Trevor was still willing to believe Summer?
Summer's gaze swept over Trevor's face, his expression as dark and terrifying as
a brewing storm, then flicked to Peyton's devastated look of disbelief.
Her own expression remained distant, as calm and indifferent as still water. And when she spoke again, her voice was cool, almost emotionless. "Believe whatever you want."
She had not done it. So why did it matter whether he believed her or not? Summer realized, in that moment, that she no longer loved Trevor.
His trust, or lack of it, had nothing to do with her anymore.
Why should she care what he believed? Was she supposed to be like her old self again, desperately trying to earn points in his heart, fighting for a shred of approval?
What a fool she had been. And Summer was not going to be that fool ever again.
Summer never bothered to spare them another glance. She turned on her heel, she was ready to leave.
Trevor stared at her back, at her cold indifference, at the way she acted like he no longer mattered. Like she could just walk away. The fire that had been simmering in his chest roared to life all at once.
In a flash, he reached out and grabbed her wrist tight.
"Summer,” he growled, his voice low and sharp, seething with rage, “you're not leaving."
Summer's anger flared instantly as well, her patience snapping like brittle glass.
Enough was enough! This damned man. He never knew his own strength when
he grabbed her. And it was always the wrist.
Chapter 64
One Splash, One Sorry
Finished
Without the slightest hesitation, Summer raised her hand and swung it hard across Trevor's face.
The sharp crack of the slap sliced through the heavy air, echoing in the tense silence of the room.
Peyton gasped, unable to contain her shock. "Summer, how could you... How could you slap Trevor?!"
But Trevor seemed completely unfazed by the burning pain that bloomed across his cheek as if he hadn't even felt it.
He simply stood there, eyes wide, staring at the woman who had slapped him once and now dared to slap him again.
Those dark eyes of his burned with a wild, scaring rage, as if an uncontrollable fire had been ignited within them.
Trevor gritted his teeth, his voice raw with disbelief and fury as he roared, "Summer, you dare to slap me?!"
Summer lifted her chin, unwavering as she met his glare head-on. “Why not? You can grab me, so why can't I slap you?"
Trevor's face turned an ominous shade of dark, as if his fury was about to boil over. He dragged his tongue slowly across his back molars, then forced out his next words through clenched teeth, each syllable sharp as broken glass. "Apologize. To Peyton."
In Trevor's mind, it was so simple.
As long as Summer was willing to lower her head, admit her mistake, and beg for forgiveness, he would let it go.
He would overlook the dirt on her body, her betrayal, all of it.
He would turn the page and move forward.
He would make her his wife. Give her the title of Mrs. Larson that so many envied.
For a moment, Peyton's tightly clenched heart loosened. A flash of triumph crossed her delicate face. As she expected, Trevor was still on her side.
Summer laughed. A short, sharp laugh full of scorn.
"I didn't pour hot water on that woman," she said, "Why should I apologize? And besides, I'm not the same Summer you used to toy with. Not anymore."
Trevor felt it. The difference in Summer.
But the fire in his chest consumed that flicker of awareness, burning away the last of his reason and guilt.
He glared at her, his expression hard as iron.
Summer knew how stubborn Trevor was. A cold, mocking smile tugged at the corner of her lips.
"Peyton, since you say I'm the one who poured water on you and you want me to apologize, then I might as well actually pour it on you first before I apologize."
Summer suddenly turned on her heel, striding with purpose toward the coffee table. Her movements were swift and precise as she grabbed a bottle of mineral water, twisted the cap off in one smooth motion, and without hesitation, swung her arm wide. The cold water burst from the bottle and drenched Peyton in an
instant.
"Ah!" Peyton shrieked, caught completely off guard. Her hair clung to her face in wet strands, her clothes soaked through, water dripping from her lashes so heavily she could not even open her eyes.
Across from her, Summer stood with her arms crossed lazily in front of her chest, her posture casual, her gaze full of contempt.
"Sorry," Summer said flatly, not a hint of sincerity in her voice. "There. Satisfied?"
She tilted her head, the sarcasm in her tone slicing deep. "Want me to apologize again? One splash, one sorry." She clicked her tongue. "What a shame that this was cold water. If it were hot..."
Summer gave a slow, dangerous smile. "I wouldn't mind saying sorry twice."
Peyton's eyes turned red as she wiped the water from her face, her breath hitching with pitiful sobs. She stumbled toward Trevor, grabbing onto his arm desperately as tears streamed down her face.
"Trevor," she cried, her voice shaking, "help me... please! Why is Summer doing this to me? What did I do wrong?"
Trevor's brows were drawn so tight they seemed permanently knotted. His expression was dark and unreadable as he stood there, unmoving.
He had never seen Summer like this before.
She was like a stranger now.
Summer gave him a fleeting glance, emotionless. She did not wait for him to speak or react. She spun on her heel and walked briskly toward the hospital room door.
Summer flung the door open and nearly collided with Josh. He had heard Peyton's scream.
Even if Trevor was his employer, even Josh had reached his limit. He had to step in and see what was happening.
"Summer," he said sharply, "what did you do to Peyton?"
"I apologized," she said, voice crisp. "Didn't you hear it?"
"Apologize?" Josh's voice was low, dangerous. "You think an apology would make Peyton cry like that?"
Not a chance. She must have done something to Peyton.
Josh did not believe Summer.
His teeth clenched tight as he glared at Summer with the intensity of a wild beast ready to pounce, his fury
"As a doctor," she said lazily, her gaze sweeping over him like he was something stuck to the bottom of her shoe, "you're supposed to save lives. Maybe try doing less thinking about violence and more about medicine. Though, judging by your temper, I'm guessing you're not much good at it either.
With that, she brushed past him without a second glance.
Josh quickly stormed into the room.
Inside, Peyton was still huddled close to Trevor, her red-rimmed eyes glistening with unshed tears.
But Trevor's gaze was fixed on the open door, on the spot where summer had just vanished.
Peyton wished she could rush after Summer and slap her across the face until it swelled.
But she could not. Not with Trevor standing right here. She forced it down, smothered the fury under a mask of gentle sorrow.
"Trevor, Summer was just angry. That's why she lost control like that." She bit her lip, tears clinging to her lashes as she looked up at him with misty eyes. "For you,
I can forgive her."
Josh snapped his head toward her, his expression darkening. "You're too kind, Peyton," he spat. "That woman, she's a vile, heartless thing! And you're still speaking up for her? That's exactly why she keeps bullying you."
He turned toward Trevor, his tone hard and sharp. "Trevor, Summer needs to be taught a lesson. You shouldn't let her anywhere near Peyton. Peyton is already in a fragile state. She can't take another shock."
Trevor did not answer. He just stood there, his entire body emanating a glacial
Chapter 65
"Enough." Trevor cast a fleeting glance at Peyton. He did not hug her or comfort her like he used to. "Your surgery is tomorrow. Focus on that. Don't overthink."
Then his eyes shifted to Josh, dark and unreadable. "As for you, your only responsibility is to take care of Peyton. Everything else is none of your concern." With that, Trevor turned abruptly and wanted to leave the room.
Peyton watched as Trevor strode away; a thin mist of tears welled up in her beautiful eyes, blurring her vision. Her eyes reddened instantly, gleaming like delicate rubies, making her look like a pitiful little rabbit abandoned in the snow.
Josh clenched his fists tightly at his sides. He turned sharply and rushed after Trevor, grabbing his arm and forcing him to stop.
"Trevor," Josh called out, his voice taut with anger and disbelief. "Peyton was scalded with hot water by Summer, humiliated and tormented. And you just walk away? She needs you."
Trevor's face was expressionless. "What she needs right now is a doctor," he replied coldly.
George's grip tightened, desperation flashing in his eyes. "But you're her cure. Without you, she'll die."
The storm swirling in Trevor's dark eyes deepened, like black clouds churning before a violent tempest. It was these very words and beliefs that had kept him bound to Peyton all these years.
This was the reason why he did not manage to save Summer on the wedding day. And because of that, she was ruined. Her innocence was destroyed.
Trevor's jaw clenched, and thin red veins spread across his cold, dark gaze.
"Josh," he said, his tone razor sharp, "I'm not paying you to interfere with my choices. Do your job. If you can't, I'll find someone else who will."
Josh stood frozen in disbelief.
Trevor had always been difficult, moody at best, but Josh's brother had been Trevor's closest friend in school.
Because of that bond, Trevor had always treated him like family and a younger brother when he became Peyton's doctor.
But now? Trevor was ready to cast him aside without a second thought because of Summer.
Slowly, Josh's hand slipped away from Trevor's arm. "I understand," he said at last, voice low.
At the bar, Trevor downed glass after glass, the amber liquid going down hard and fast.
He drank viciously and recklessly. His head throbbed as the alcohol pounded against his skull, but he did
not ston
Drowning In Regret
over him, colder than death itself. That look alone was enough to shut him up.
But he could not help wondering why Trevor had only asked him out tonight.
None of the usual group was here. Bobby and the others had not even been called.
Was he just supposed to sit here and watch the man drink himself into an early gravet
Finished
Caleb sighed heavily, glancing at the floor littered with expensive wine bottles, some still rolling lazily with cach shift of Trevor's body.
At this rate, he thought grimly, Trevor was not going home tonight. He was going to drink himself to death right here.
Unable to hold it in anymore, Caleb finally broke the tense silence. "Trevor," he said, his tone low but serious, "what happened?"
Trevor's bloodshot eyes lifted slightly, dazed with alcohol, but under the red haze was a darkness even deeper than before. After a long pause, he spoke, his voice rough and strained. "The day I was marrying Peyton, Summer was kidnapped."
"Yeah, I remember," Caleb said slowly. "But you said it was fake.
He remembered that day well. He and Bobby, along with a few other friends, had gone to the wedding mostly out of respect for Trevor. They did not stay long.
Most of the guests were Peyton's close friends.
At the wedding, Trevor had received a call from Summer, saying she was kidnapped.
Bobby had laughed it off when word got around.
"Of all the days to get 'kidnapped," Bobby even sneered, "she picked the day Trevor and Peyton got married? What a joke. Even a three-year-old wouldn't believe that crap."
Trevor's brows furrowed. His voice was heavy. "No, it wasn't fake."
For a moment, Caleb was too stunned to breathe.
"What? It wasn't fake?"
The word exploded from him as he shot to his feet, knocking over his barstool in the process.
Caleb's reaction was instant, words slipping out before his brain could catch up.
"No wonder Summer wanted to break up with you! If it were me, if I were a woman, I wouldn't just break up. I'd carve up the bastard who pulled something like that with my own hands."
Trevor stared at his friend's outburst. But for the first time, he did not argue. Instead, he gave a bitter, self- mocking smile.
Not just the kidnapping; she may have even gotten raped by those kidnappers...
Though he felt guilty, it ate at him that Summer's body was not 'clean' anymore. Despite how much he told himself he should not care, he did.
Caleb, realizing too late how harsh his words had been, glanced sideways. Trevor's face was blank, drained of color and life. It was the first time Caleb had ever seen him like this, and for a moment, he felt a pang of pity.
"Trevor," he started slowly. "If you really don't care about Summer anymore, if she wants to leave, maybe you should let her go."
Trevor's bloodshot eyes snapped up, blazing red. "You think it's up to you people to decide whether I give a damn or not?"
Caleb fell silent for a moment, but curiosity gnawed at him, something he wanted to ask for a long time.
"If you care so much about Summer, what about Peyton? Everyone thinks you care more about Peyton. What is it? You want both women?"
Trevor picked up the glass of burning liquor and downed it in one harsh gulp, his throat working as if swallowing poison.
"Peyton is my responsibility. Her body ended up like this because of me. Because years ago, my mother forced her out of Havenbrook. She went to the Ameros, spiraled into depression, and then got hit by a car. If I don't take care of her, she won't survive."
Chapter 66
Do You Love Summer, Trevor?
If Peyton truly couldn't make it, she would have been gone years ago. But here she was, still alive and kicking. She even had a new heart now.
Caleb couldn't resist taking a jab at Trevor.
In the past, Summer might have brushed it off. But this was different. It was a kidnapping, and her fiancé was busy attending another wedding. If Summer could put up with that, she deserved a medal for Most Patient Woman Alive.
"Then keep focusing on Peyton and let Summer go. No woman can handle being treated this way by the man she loves. If she's saying it's over this time, she's serious."
"No way. I can't do that." Trevor set his glass down with a heavy thud.
Caleb sighed. "Trevor, do you even love Summer?"
Love?
Trevor thought for a long moment, his eyes narrowing. "Summer has always been there for me. I don't have to love her, don't have to put in any effort to understand her. She just loves me, supports me, and looks after me. A woman like that makes a great girlfriend... maybe even a perfect Mrs. Larson."
Caleb listened to all that, but he still couldn't tell if Trevor actually loved Summer or not.
"So? Do you love her or not?"
Trevor had the words stuck in his throat for a long time, but he just couldn't say them.
The truth was, he had never really thought about this question before.
From the very beginning, Summer was the one who chased after him. A beautiful woman willing to spend her time making him happy, staying by his side, with her whole heart devoted to him-why would he ever turn that down?
At some point, without even realizing it, he got used to having her in his life.
But the moment Summer stopped being sweet and obedient-when she got upset, jealous, or started arguing with him-he found it frustrating.
In his mind, that wasn't his problem. What man wouldn't want a girlfriend who was kind and understanding instead of one who was stubborn and difficult?
Watching Trevor get lost in thought, Caleb changed the question. "Then do you love Peyton?"
Trevor said, "She's very important to me."
Caleb sighed and reworded it. "If Peyton recovers one day and wants to leave, would you let her?"
"I've always wanted her to get better so she could live her own life."
Do You Love Summer, Trevor?
Caleb sighed. "This is tough. I don't think Summer is coming back."
Trevor looked up. "Why not?"
It wasn't like he cared about her past anymore.
Finished
"Why wouldn't she come back? She's loved me for five years and swore she always would. She's just mad right now."
Trevor fell silent for a moment. "Is there any way to change her mind?"
"It won't be easy." Caleb shifted gears. "Did anything happen to Summer while she was kidnapped?"
At that, Trevor clenched his glass, pressing down too hard. It shattered in his hand.
His rational side told him Summer had to be exaggerating at least part of her story.
But those marks on her skin... He wasn't so sure anymore. Would she really go this far just to get back at him?
Trevor's face darkened. "Just tell me how to make a woman stay."
Caleb was speechless.
What do I look like, some kind of magician? Can I perform miracles? Can I make
a woman change her mind after she's already given up?
Still, he thought about it carefully. "Trevor, I think you need to take a step back. You've always had the upper hand in this relationship. Try being gentler with Summer. Most importantly, drop the superiority complex. If you can swallow your pride and humble yourself, you might still have a shot."
Trevor's steps were unsteady as he stumbled out of the private room.
Caleb reached out to support him, but Trevor shoved his hand away.
Just as they stepped outside, the elevator doors in the distance slid open.
Fraser walked out, leading a group of people.
He moved with effortless confidence, his gray dress shirt crisp and unbuttoned at the collar. His suit jacket was casually draped over his arm, making it clear he had just wrapped up an important business negotiation.
Following behind him were Mark, the head of Homeland Security, and Kyle, the director of Urban Development.
A massive airport project was about to break ground between Havenbrook Easthaven, one of the biggest developments in Havenbrook's history.
The Larson Group and the Graham Group-two powerhouse corporations-were locked in a fierce battle for the contract.
Do You Love Summer, Trevor?
Finished
Lately, he had been drowning in work-not just to avoid Summer, but because the Larson Group was in the middle of a crisis unlike anything it had faced before.
For months now, the Graham Group had been coming after them with ruthless precision, as if it was hell-bent on taking them down.
Chapter 67
You're Invited to Our Wedding, Fraser
Finished
The Graham Group and the Larson Group had always been rivals, but never like this. Lately, the Graham Group had been going all out, ruthlessly suppressing the Larson Group and stealing project after project, causing major financial losses.
As Trevor watched Fraser walk out with the two department heads, he could already guess the outcome- the Easthaven airport contract had probably slipped right into Fraser's hands.
And then there was the 1 billion dollars' investment Fraser had given Summer not long ago. That thought made Trevor's expression even darker.
Beside him, Caleb immediately recognized Fraser, the bossman.
He knew all too well just how brutal the competition between the Larson Group and the Graham Group had become.
Wanting to avoid unnecessary conflict, he carefully suggested, "Trevor, let's go this way."
Trevor shot him a cold look. "Get out of my way."
Then he straightened his posture and strode toward the elevator.
Fraser instructed his subordinates to escort Kyle and Mark back. As he turned, he noticed Trevor approaching.
His gaze lifted lazily, sweeping past Trevor in search of someone. But the woman he wanted to see wasn't there.
Caleb followed, looking a little uneasy. He cleared his throat. "Mr. Graham, it's been a while."
At the sound of Caleb's voice, Fraser shifted his eyes back and gave a slow, indifferent response. "Mm."
Trevor's icy gaze locked onto Fraser.
Fraser met it head-on, his dark eyes unreadable as he studied Trevor.
Two powerful, commanding men stood in the middle of the bar, their presence impossible to ignore. Women passing by couldn't help but turn and stare, but despite their good looks, there was a clear tension between them-an invisible clash sparking in the air.
Trevor's voice was as cold as his expression. " Fraser, should I be thanking you for everything you've done for the Larson family lately? Or should I be grateful for the 1 billion dollars' investment you gave my fiancée Summer?"
He
put extra weight on the word fiancée, making sure Fraser heard it loud and clear.
Fraser let out a cold chuckle, his lips curling in mockery. "The Graham Group invested 1 billion dollars in Summer. As her ex-boyfriend, don't you think it's a little inappropriate for you to be thanking me?"
The moment Trevor heard ex-boyfriend, a faint crack appeared in his icy demeanor.
I atelu coccin about hie breakun with Summer had heen making wavec in high cocien
You're Invited to Our Wedding, Fraser
away five years of love.
She would come back.
She had to.
Finished
"Fraser, you might not know this, but Summer and I are getting married soon. As her future husband, I obviously have the right to speak for her."
Fraser's brows tightened. He was about to snap back.
But then that image of Summer in a wedding dress flashed through his mind. For
a moment, he realized- he had no argument.
His fingers tightened around his phone, knuckles turning white. His expression darkened instantly.
The hallway was thick with tension, an invisible fire crackling in the air.
Even Caleb, just standing nearby, could feel the suffocating pressure creeping up his spine.
He quickly stepped forward, grabbing Trevor by the arm in an attempt to smooth things over. "Mr. Graham, sorry about this. Trevor's had too much to drink."
Summer had made it painfully clear she was done. So why the heck was Trevor suddenly talking about marriage?
Trevor pushed his hand away, a smirk full of mockery curling at his lips. "I'll make sure the Graham Group gets a wedding invitation. Fraser, don't forget to show up and have a drink on me."
Fraser felt a wave of fury surge through his chest, his voice low and sharp. "Trevor, with the Easthaven airport project slipping out of your grasp, does the Larson Group even have time for you to be planning a wedding? Or are you just living in a dream world?"
That hit where it hurt. Losing deal after deal had already left the Larson Group's shareholders frustrated.
Even his father, Michael, had been pressing him about it.
The Easthaven project alone was worth hundreds of billions. If Fraser snatched it away too, Trevor would be looking at a full-blown corporate war as the CEO of the Larson Group.
His face darkened, veins pulsing at his temple as he bristled like a lion provoked into a fight.
"Fraser! The Graham Group never cared about construction projects before. But lately, you've been tripping up the Larson family at every turn, stealing projects out from under us. What exactly are you trying to do?"
Fraser's gaze was ice-cold, his patience nearly gone. He loosened his tie and let out a sharp laugh. "What am I trying to do? Maybe I just like seeing you miserable."
The second those words landed, Trevor's drunken rage exploded. His teeth clenched, his fist tightened, and without thinking, he swung straight for Fraser.
Caleb moved fast, grabbing onto Trevor before he could throw the punch.
Chapter 68
Burning with Jealousy, Fraser Can't Stop It
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If that hit landed, it would be a disaster. By tomorrow, the headlines would be screaming about how Trevor lost control and went after Fraser.
And the Larson Group? Their stock would be in free fall.
Not to mention, everyone knew Fraser was a top-ranked black belt in Tackwondo.
If it came down to a fight, Trevor wouldn't walk away unscathed.
Caleb held him back, forcing a nervous smile. "Mr. Graham, he's just drunk. Please don't take it seriously. I'll get him out of here right now."
Trevor growled. "Let me go. Let go of me."
"Andrew's already waiting outside with the car. You're too drunk for this. I'm taking you out of here.
With everything he had, Caleb wrestled Trevor toward the exit, dragging him out against his will.
Fraser stood still, gaze lowered as he pulled off his tie. His presence alone was suffocating, exuding dominance and pressure.
For a while, he said nothing. Then, slowly, a bitter smile crept onto his face.
It didn't matter how much more powerful he was than Trevor in business. The truth was undeniable.
He was jealous of him.
Jealous that Summer loved him. Jealous that she had chosen him.
Jealous to the point of insanity.
On her way to the company, Summer's phone kept ringing nonstop-Jasper was calling over and over. He hadn't explained what was so urgent, just told her to come in.
So the moment she arrived, she went straight to his office.
She knocked twice before pushing the door open.
Inside, Jasper was smoking, the air thick with the sharp, acrid scent of tobacco. Behind him, Evan, the project director, stood mid-report, his expression serious.
Jasper turned and gave Evan a brief nod.
Evan placed a stack of documents on the desk before exiting the room.
Summer walked up, her brows slightly furrowed. “Dad, what's so urgent?”
Jasper let out a puff of smoke, scoffing. "Urgent? The Graham Group only transferred 500 million dollars. Did you know about this?"
Apr
Barning with Jealousy, Fraser Can't Stop It
She frowned slightly. "Is there an issue?"
Finished
Jasper's brows knitted together. "Issue? The remaining 500 million dollars' investment was supposed to be transferred by now, but the finance department hasn't received anything"
He had even reached out to the Graham Group, hoping to set up a dinner with Fraser to show his appreciation.
But the response was distant. They only said Fraser wasn't available,
At such a crucial time, Jasper couldn't afford for anything to go wrong. This was a
500 million dollars' deal That's why he wanted Summer to step in and fix it.
"Did you do something to upset Mr. Graham? Is that why he's holding back the rest of the investment for Stewart Group?"
Summer pursed her lips, thinking.
Her phone had only just been repaired today, and she had been staying at Yvette's place for the past few days.
Ever since that night, she hadn't seen Fraser once.
But Fraser wasn't the type to be this petty. Would he really cancel the rest of the
investment just because she brushed it off as a one-night stand?
From what she knew of him, Fraser carried himself with effortless confidence, shaped by wealth, power, and privilege.
In Havenbrook, there wasn't a single family richer than the Grahams. To him, 500 million dollars was pocket change.
Summer glanced at Jasper, noting his anxious expression. "Our original plan for the Global Plan was based on a 500 million dollars' budget. Even if the Graham Group pulls out the remaining 500 million dollars, it won't stop the project from moving forward."
"You don't get it. The original plan was for 500 million dollars, but when the Graham Group agreed to invest 1 billion dollars, I expanded the scope and added extra developments. Now, 500 million dollars isn't enough."
So that's what this was about-he wanted her to chase the Graham Group for the rest of the money. Summer leaned back on the couch, arms crossed, her voice suddenly relaxed. "And?"
Jasper's brows furrowed even deeper. "You were the one who secured this deal. Go talk to the Graham Group and find out when they're sending the remaining 500 million dollars."
Summer let out a small smirk. "Dad, you wouldn't have forgotten about my shares, would you?"
The last time she agreed to step in and sign with the Graham Group, it was because Jasper promised her 30% of Stewart Group's shares.
But instead, he pulled a bait-and-switch, saying the transfer would only happen after she married Trevor.
Burning with Jealousy, Fraser Can't Stop It
0361%4
Finished
But handing over Stewart Group's shares too soon wouldn't have been in the Stewart family's best interest.
Summer had always been proud and independent, someone who refused to be controlled and had a strong will of her own.
Chapter 69
No Shares, No Deal
Summer didn't get along with Margaret either.
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To the Stewart family, she was a wildcard-a potential disaster waiting to happen.
As her father, the only way he could keep her in line was by holding something over her.
But now, with the unexpected issue involving the Graham Group, Jasper was struggling to navigate the situation.
He looked at Summer and tried to reason with her through family ties. "Summer, you need to think about the bigger picture. You're my daughter, and eventually, half of Stewart Group will be yours. Right now, the priority is securing the remaining funds from the Graham Group. I already promised you the shares, and I will give them to you-it's just a matter of time. Why are you getting so caught up in this?"
Jasper let out a slow sigh. "If it were Margaret, she would understand that I'm doing this for the family."
Summer almost laughed.
So in the end, Margaret-the fake daughter-was still the one Jasper valued most.
She hadn't forgotten what happened at the event.
Jasper had already prepared the equity transfer contract for Margaret well in advance.
Keeping her expression indifferent, Summer casually tapped her fingers against her arm. "I can go to the Graham Group and get the rest of the funds. It's not impossible."
"Really?" Jasper's eyes lit up. "Summer, you really are such a good daughter."
Summer smiled, unhurried. "Dad, don't get too excited. Let's sign the equity transfer contract today, and then I'll go. How does that sound?"
Jasper's face immediately darkened. "You... Summer, why do you always have to be this stubborn? Let's put that aside for now. You're one of the key executives on the Global Plan. You don't want to see the project stall halfway, do you? Get the investment from the Graham Group first."
Summer didn't flinch. Her tone was cold as she met his gaze. "No. The shares come first."
Jasper's sharp gaze locked onto her, dark and heavy, as if he was trying to see straight through her. For the first time, he felt like he didn't know this daughter of his at all.
But Summer refused to back down. She met his eyes without hesitation. "Dad, you always said that in business, profit comes first. I'm just following your rules. If you want something done, you have to offer something in return. Isn't that right?" Jasper stared at her for a long moment before speaking, his voice laced with cold amusement. "You really are my daughter. You've learned well."
Then, he walked over to his marble desk, picked up the phone, and dialed. "Tell legal to draft an agreement for the transfer of 30% of Stewart Group's shares."
She glanced at the transfer agreement lying in the passenger seat. As of today, she was officially the second-largest shareholder of Stewart Group.
But this was just the beginning.
Over the past few weeks, she had seen things more clearly than ever.
If the Stewart family wouldn't give her love, then she might as well take their money instead.
She used to be foolish-never fighting for what was hers, never pushing back.
The moment she moved back into the Stewart estate, Margaret made it her mission to make her life miserable, acting like there was no place for her in that house.
To avoid putting Jasper and Julia in a tough spot, Summer had even chosen to move out on her own.
Thinking back, she had made far too many stupid sacrifices.
Why should I always be the one making sacrifices? Life is easier when I stop putting everyone else before myself. That saying had never felt more true.
Half an hour later, Summer pulled up in front of the Graham Group headquarters.
The building was the tallest in Havenbrook, a towering display of modern design and cutting-edge architecture that radiated power.
Inside, she walked up to the front desk, where three gorgeous receptionists stood like a perfectly curated display.
One of them, a long-haired woman, immediately recognized her.
She had been here before.
Summer wasn't the kind of woman people easily forgot-sharp, captivating eyes, striking features, and a beauty that turned heads wherever she went.
She's back again? She really won't give up on our boss.
Not that it was surprising. Fraser wasn't just a dream man for women outside the company. Even inside the Graham Group, he was every female employee's ultimate fantasy.
The long-haired receptionist, following the same routine as last time, didn't even bother checking with the executive office before shutting her down. "Miss, why are you here again? You could come a hundred times, and Mr. Graham still wouldn't be available. Actually, even if he were, he wouldn't make time for you."
Summer barely spared her a glance. Without a word, she pulled out her newly repaired phone and made a call.
The three receptionists watched her, whispering among themselves with amused, condescending smiles.
As soon as Summer ended the call.
A man in a sharp suit quickly emerged from the building.
Finished
He approached Summer with a respectful nod. "Ms. Stewart, good afternoon. Mr.
Graham has asked me to personally escort you upstairs."
The receptionists were floored.
Who is this woman?
For Mike himself to come down and greet her, she had to be someone important.
Her connection to the Fraser clearly wasn't ordinary.
Chapter 70
Ms Stewart? Or Trevor's Future Wife?
Mike escorted Summer into a high-end office.
A secretary walked in soon after, setting a glass of water on the table before quietly leaving.
"Ms. Stewart, please wait a moment," Mike said. “Mr. Graham is in a meeting, but he'll be here soon."
With that, he stepped out, leaving her alone in the room.
Summer leaned back on the couch, casually scanning her surroundings.
Everything about this office screamed Fraser.
Finished
Her eyes landed on an entire display wall lined with limited-edition luxury car models-hundreds of them.
And knowing Fraser, she had no doubt that every single one of those cars existed in his real-life garage.
Her thoughts drifted back to that night when he took her street racing.
The rush of speed, the open road stretching endlessly ahead-it all felt so real, like she could still hear the wind tearing past and see the cool confidence in his expression.
A sudden urge washed over her.
She wanted to feel that thrill again.
She got up from the couch and walked over to the display shelf, picking up one of the car models for a closer look.
As she turned, her eyes unintentionally landed on a framed photo on Fraser's desk.
It was a picture of a little girl with a small dog.
A dog?
That dog... it had to be Pudding as a puppy.
Even from a distance, she recognized the fluffy white fur-though in the photo, it looked much thinner, almost malnourished, lying motionless on the ground.
The little girl had her head lowered, making it hard to see her face. Her tiny hands rested gently on Pudding's head.
She wore a blue-and-white dress, but the fabric had visible patches, and her side profile was smudged with dirt.
Both the girl and the dog looked like they had been struggling.
The image felt completely out of place in this extravagant, high-end office.
Summer put the model car back on the shelf and took a step forward.
Chapter 70 Ms Stewart? Or Trevor's Future Wife?
Summer looked up, locking eyes with him.
Fraser's sharp, deep-set gaze was unreadable, but there was an unmistakable chill beneath it.
He was dressed casually-an open-collared printed shirt hanging effortlessly on his frame, paired with tailored black trousers that outlined his long, lean legs.
On his wrist, a high-end watch with a celestial dial caught the light, highlighting the the defined structure of his hand.
For a brief moment, Summer felt the full weight of his presence pressing down on her.
Fraser shut the door behind him and stepped forward, his footsteps steady and deliberate.
His voice was cutting. "Ms. Stewart, what brings you here today?"
Ms. Stewart.
The way he said it was crisp and distant, like a blade slicing through the air.
Summer figured he was still holding a grudge over what she had said that night- that it was just a one-night stand.
Seriously? How can a man this powerful be so petty?
But she wasn't here to argue. She was here for business. So, she adjusted her tone, keeping it professional.
"Mr. Graham, about the 1 billion dollars' investment you committed to Stewart Group-there's still 500 million dollars outstanding. When can we expect the funds to be transferred?"
Fraser strolled over to the couch and sank into it with effortless ease, casually crossing one leg over the other. His arms stretched across the back of the sofa, his whole demeanor relaxed yet commanding.
His sharp, deep-set eyes fixated on the woman standing a few feet away.
Summer wore a crisp white blouse tucked into a sleek black A-line skirt. It was a simple, professional outfit, yet on her, it perfectly outlined her elegant curves.
Her long, wavy hair was pinned up, exposing her smooth forehead and delicate, fair skin.
Her dark, expressive eyes held a warmth that could make even the coldest heart soften.
Fraser's expression darkened for a split second. Under that gaze, he almost faltered.
But then, Trevor's words echoed in his mind. That wedding photo flashed before his eyes.
In an instant, his emotions shut down, turning cold and distant.
A slow, mocking smirk tugged at his lips as he let out a low scoff. "So, it's about money again. Ms. Stewart, every time you come to me, it's for money, but you never offer anything in return. What is it? Do I look like some clueless fool to you? Do I seem like an idiot?"
Summer considered his words for a moment. He wasn't entirely wrong
Ms Stewart? Or Trevor's Future Wife?
She stepped closer, stopping just a couple of feet away from him.
Finished
Even though he was sitting, Fraser's presence was undeniable. He carried himself with effortless authority, exuding confidence and dominance without even trying.
Summer hesitated for a second before speaking cautiously. "I don't believe Mr. Graham is the type to go back on his word. If you promised a 1 billion dollars' investment, I don't think you'd suddenly change your. mind."
"Ms. Stewart, you're mistaken. I am that petty."
A slow, almost dangerous smirk tugged at his lips.
"By the way, should I even be calling you Ms. Stewart? Or would Trevor's fiancée
be more fitting? After all, you've already tried on the dress."