Ch. 81..90
Chapter 81
The Reward
"Woof woof woof!" Pudding barked, trying to follow, but Fraser mercilessly blocked him at the door.
Fraser effortlessly tossed Summer onto the soft king-sized bed.
As Summer's body landed, the mattress sank deeply at first, then sprang back quickly like a spring.
Finished
Fraser skillfully removed his black T-shirt, revealing firm, well-defined abs, each muscle sculpted as if by an artist's hand, radiating a distinctly masculine appeal.
It stood bare before Summer, unhidden.
Summer couldn't help but gulp, a scream rising in her throat, overwhelmed by his masculine presence.
This time, Fraser was tender. He kissed her eyebrows, her delicate nose, her cherry-red lips, and lingered at her mouth, reluctant to pull away.
Then he nibbled her lips, teasing her.
Summer grew hot, her entire body restless, squirming incessantly.
"Summer, call my name,” Fraser said.
"Fra...ser," she breathed.
Discomfort consumed Summer, and driven by desire, she pressed messy kisses
to his sexy Adam's apple.
"Good girl," he murmured.
Yet Fraser held back.
His thin lips traveled from her mouth to her neck, then downward.
The air thickened with an ambiguous, lingering tension, dense and inescapable, like a humid rainy night.
Summer's eyes flew open.
Her body felt like a volcano erupting, molten heat surging upward with ferocious speed.
Unable to bear it, fragmented sounds escaped her lips.
But Fraser didn't relent, teasing her deliberately.
He wanted to see her beneath him, hazy, fragile, tinged with sorrow and resentment.
Her beauty was so captivating, he wished to gaze at her forever.
"Beg me," he said.
"Whimper... please..." She sobbed, tears pooling in her eyes, sweat from her temples dampening her hair.
The Reward
Clothes lay scattered across the bed, overlapping in disarray.
After a long while, exhaustion overtook Summer; she couldn't even lift her eyelids.
Satisfied, Fraser patiently lifted her, helping her remove her makeup and bathe.
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Afterward, he wrapped her in a warm towel and gently laid her on the bed.
His movements were soft, his eyes glimmering with tender light, as if she were a cherished lover.
But Summer, worn out from the exertion, barely noticed, half-closing her eyes to savor the care.
Fraser held her close, kissed her hair, and lowered his voice. "Summer, is there anything you want?"
Summer, eyes shut until that moment, snapped them open, cold and sharp. Her expression darkened, sleepiness fading from her mind.
She curled her arms, her tone icy. "Is this Mr. Graham's reward for women?"
Fraser sensed the shift, the woman who'd been warm and yielding moments ago now felt distant, strange.
He couldn't grasp her reasoning.
He'd only meant to offer her something simple.
But her voice, though calm, carried a wall of distance.
Fraser's gaze dropped, intense and piercing. "I told you before, I've only slept with you."
Sleeping together was just that.
Everyone knew how many women in Havenbrook pursue after Fraser Graham, the Bossman.
That's why he treated her like the others, casually offering rewards.
Summer replied, "I don't really want anything. Thank you for Mr. Graham's favor."
With that, she slipped slightly from his embrace, shifting to the bed's edge. Fraser's eyes turned cold.
He couldn't fathom what he'd done to upset her.
The night stretched dark and silent, the room filled only with their breathing, deepening the stillness.
Fraser reached out, turning Summer to face him.
His palm rested on her pale cheek, his thumb brushing her rosy lips.
"Summer, what are you so sensitive about?" he asked.
When Summer first returned to the Stewart family, she'd been unfavored, tiptoeing
to please everyone,
Sometimes, when Julia found her obedient, she'd offer a reward. "Summer, you've done well lately. What do
you want?"
At first, Summer didn't think much of it.
She accepted happily, believing it was her parents' love, their acceptance.
Until one day, she saw Margaret wearing an amethyst jewelry necklace, bought by Julia at a French auction, a gift for her.
Margaret smirked arrogantly. "That laptop you're holding is only worth a few thousand dollars. You think it's proof of their love? They hand out trinkets like that
to reward good servants all the time."
Chapter 82
A Deal with the Devil
Finished
"Summer, love means demanding what you want without shame, not waiting pitifully for handouts. You look ridiculous right now, like a pathetic beggar."
With that, Margaret turned and left, leaving Summer red-faced with humiliation.
"Oh, yea, I almost forgot, compared to the laptop in your hand, this amethyst necklace on my neck is worth 110 thousand dollars."
"Hahahaha..."
The memory still stung Summer, even though she no longer needed the Stewart family's charity.
But words like that still triggered her sensitivity.
A flash of hurt crossed Summer's eyes, her voice weak. "I'm not, I don't want anything right now."
Fraser noticed the emotion in her gaze.
Why was he, a man, fussing over this?
Fraser sighed and pulled her into his arms.
"Summer, a reward is a gift from a boss to a subordinate, while a gift is a man
giving a woman a token of his sincerity."
Summer's heart warmed, eyes stinging with unshed tears.
That was something no one had ever told her.
Peyton heard from Josh that Trevor was in the hospital and panicked.
She'd made chicken soup and was about to take it to the hospital to see him.
At the door, she ran into Diana Smith, dressed in a sleek designer dress, with a tall bodyguard in a suit behind her.
Diana was Peyton's biological father and Simon Smith's lawful wife.
Peyton's biological mother had been a mistress, and she is a hostess.
That's why Peyton had never been acknowledged by the Smith family. Diana had made sure of tha tormenting her for years.
Hostility flashed in Peyton's eyes as she glared at the woman. "What are you doing here?"
Diana stood tall, exuding wealth and superiority.
She eyed Peyton's gray dress, with a knitted jacket around the skirt.
Diana received news that Trevor of the Larson family had gone to great lengths to
find a heart donor for Peyton, curing her illness.
Seeing her now, radiant and elegant, it was clear the rumors were true.
Diana knew that it was all thanks to Trevor's indulgence.
So, the gossip in Havenbrook was right, Peyton was his favorite.
The news of Marc Gerbers entering the domestic market had caused a stir, and every major retail and luxury group in Havenbrook was vying for a piece of the action.
The Smith family, with their luxury malls, was no exception.
Diana had learned that Marc Gerbers' director was close friends with the Larson
family, specifically, Trevor.
That meant if Trevor was willing to make an introduction, securing Marc would be a breeze.
That's when Diana thought of Peyton, the illegitimate daughter of her husband, Simon. Once considered a disgrace to the family.
Perhaps she could be leveraged to approach Trevor and secure Marc Gerbers' entry into the Smith family's luxury mall.
That was why Diana stood here today.
Diana's eyes narrowed. "Is that how you speak to your elders? You should call me mother."
Peyton laughed, but her eyes were red with fury, her whole person cold as ice.
"Mother? Did I hear that right, or did you misspeak? You used to wish I'd drop dead. You looked at me like I was a fly. Now you want me to call you mother. Did you take the wrong medication today, Diana?"
Diana had always despised Peyton and her mother, using every trick to keep them down.
And Peyton's father, Simon, was under her thumb, turning a blind eye to Peyton's suffering.
She was a Smith by blood but lived worse than a dog.
If not for Trevor, she'd have died long ago.
That's why she was determined to hold onto Trevor.
Diana didn't waste time. Her time was money, after all. She was here for business.
"Marc Gerbers is coming to the U.S., and the Smith family, you know we run luxury malls. You need to ask Trevor to introduce us to Marc Gerbers' director, so they'll set up in our malls."
Peyton's face flushed with anger. "Why should I help you? I hate you, hate everyone in the Smith family. Do you think I'm stupid?"
"Why?" Diana remained lofty. "Ask yourself. You may hate us, but you've always wanted Simon to acknowledge vou to claim vour place as a Smith heiress haven't vou?"
A Deal with the Devil
"I don't..."
"I don't have a father like that!"
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Chapter 83
A Fragile Bargain
Diana remained expressionless, calm and unhurried.
A naive girl like Peyton was no match for her.
Finished
Diana saw right through Peyton's desires and vanity. She wanted to be a proper, respected Smith heiress. Without that status, she'd only ever marry into a lesser family.
Diana smirked. "If you help the Smith family secure Marc Gerbers through Trevor, I'll make sure you're recognized as a legitimate Smith heiress."
"I won't!" Peyton spat.
"Oh? Really?" Diana sneered. "My offer stands until the end of the month. If the Smith family secures it on our own, you'll get nothing."
With that, Diana strode to her waiting luxury car.
The driver bowed and opened the door.
The car sped off, leaving a trail of exhaust.
Peyton stood there, fists clenched.
Half an hour later, at the Larson family's private hospital.
Peyton stood at the VIP room door and pushed it open.
Trevor sat on the bed in his hospital gown, a laptop on a tray in front of him.
His face was pale as he worked.
"Trevor, what happened? Are you still in pain? You scared me to death," Peyton said, hurrying to his bedside. She set the thermos on the table, her expression tense with worry.
Trevor looked up. "Why are you
here?"
Tears welled in Peyton's eyes as she gazed at him, her concern obvious.
"I heard from Josh that you collapsed and were hospitalized. Why didn't you tell me? I was so scared. If anything happened to you, I wouldn't want to live..." said Peyton.
"I'm fine. You just had surgery, 80 k
to rest," Trevor said flatly.
Peyton opened the thermos cup and ladled out some chicken soup. "I made this especially for you. The doctor said your stomach's weak and you need something nutritious."
Trevor didn't want to reject her kindness. He took the bowl and sipped. The soup was sweet and rich.
But it wasn't the same as the one in his memory.
A Fragile Bargain
He set it down and said gently, "Peyton, you should go. The hospital's full of
viruses, and you're still recovering."
Peyton's heart leaped, Trevor still cared. She smiled inwardly.
She knew she held a special place in his heart.
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Playing coy, she said, "Trevor, don't take what I said last time to heart. I wasn't trying to steal you from Summer. I'm just... grateful. And scared that now that I'm better, you'll ignore me."
Trevor lowered his gaze. "I'm not mad at you."
Seeing his reaction, Peyton knew her words had worked.
She pressed on. "Trevor, can you do me a favor?"
"?"
"You're close to Marc Gerbers' director, right? Could you help me get them to set
up in the Smith family's luxury mall?"
Trevor said nothing.
Tears brimmed in Peyton's eyes, making her look fragile and vulnerable.
Any man would struggle to resist such fragility.
"You know how much I've suffered because of the Smith family. But I am a Smith, after all. They've treated me poorly, but I can't be heartless."
"Marc Gerbers is coming to Havenbrook, and the Smith family is trying to secure them. I want to help the family, just this once."
But Peyton didn't care about helping the Smith family or her father's so-called love.
She wanted the title of Smith heiress.
Without it, she was just a nameless bastard, the daughter of a mistress. In high society, she needed status.
Without Trevor's protection, she'd be a joke.
Peyton was confident. Trevor doted on her, he'd help with this small favor.
Then she could use it to negotiate with Diana.
Trevor had just been working and knew about the situation.
He'd read that book Caleb gave him, "100 Ways to Win Your Wife Back".
One tip: When your girlfriend is in trouble, step in to help. It'll earn you favor.
Marc Gerbers entering the U.S. market was a big deal, and with a word from him, he could decide which
Chapter 84
A Strategic Move
Finished
Trevor suddenly recalled that Stewart Group was also in the shopping mall business and was a competitor in this fierce battle.
Regarding the previous investment, Trevor had been wrong to force Summer to beg him.
It would have been wiser to extend an olive branch instead.
Perhaps this could be the opportunity to bring Summer back to his side, to stop her from resisting him.
Trevor turned to Peyton, his tone firm and unwavering. "Peyton, I can't help you with this."
Peyton thought she had misheard him.
Her eyes widened in shock as she stammered, "What?"
"Trevor, you never refused me for such small matters before. Do you really... despise me now?"
As she spoke, pearl-like tears rolled down her cheeks.
Trevor frowned, his gaze unusually serious. "Peyton, Stewart Group is also competing for the Marloux
brand."
Peyton instantly understood.
Summer again.
She momentarily lost control of her expression, biting her lip as she seethed. "Did Summer tell you not to help me on purpose because she hates me that much?"
"No, Peyton. I chose to help her on my own."
Peyton looked as if she had heard something unbelievable.
She shook her head repeatedly, her tears now real.
A sharp pain stabbed through her chest, making it hard to breathe.
Choking back a sob, she said, "Trevor, how can you do this to me? I'm the one who loves you the most. If your mother hadn't forced me to leave you back then, you would still be my boyfriend now."
Trevor felt guilty, but this time, he did not waver.
"I'm sorry, Peyton. I can agree to anything else, but not this."
Peyton knew Trevor's personality well, once he made a decision, he would not change it.
Digging her nails into her palm, she forced herself to stay composed.
Peyton, you are gentle.
Chapter 84 A Strategic Move
Make him feel guilty.
Men can never escape when they are consumed by guilt.
"I understand, Trevor. I put you in a difficult position. I'm sorry."
Tears streaming down her face, her delicate figure trembling, Peyton turned and ran out.
Trevor watched as the door closed behind her.
He knew she was hurt.
But right now, his priority was to win Summer back.
He pulled out his phone and dialed Andrew.
"Andrew, transfer one million dollars to Peyton's account."
Since Yvette had once been a brand ambassador for Marloux, Summer was able
to leverage that connection to secure a meeting with Martin Michaux, the brand's director.
Martin was a middle-aged Frenchman dressed in an elegant suit, his silver hair neatly combed.
He sat casually on the couch, one leg crossed over the other, flipping through Summer's proposal.
After a brief glance, he placed the document atop a thick stack of other proposals.
"Ms. Stewart, just tell me why Marloux should open in your family's mall." Summer followed his gaze.
She understood that these were all proposals submitted by competing businesses in Havenbrook.
The competition was intense.
Calm and composed, she outlined the benefits and advantages that Stewart Group could offer.
Martin smiled, a polite, charming smile, but his tone was indifferent.
"That's not the point. Whatever your mall offers, the others can provide as well, can't they? Let's not waste each other's time."
Summer grew anxious. " Martin, I..."
Martin said "In Havenbrook, connections matter. The only reason you're here is because of Yvette's past association with our brand. But when every mall is offering the same incentives, I have to prioritize relationships. You understand? Now, if you'll excuse me."
With that, Summer was escorted out.
A Strategic Move
Just then, her phone chimed with a WhatsApp notification.
She glanced at it and saw a transfer receipt from Peyton.
It was one million dollars transferred from Trevor to Peyton.
Summer's already sour mood turned even worse.
Why hadn't she deleted that woman yet?
Now Peyton was flaunting her wealth in front of her?
Her fingers moved to delete WhatsApp, but before she could, her phone rang.
By accident, she answered. A deep, familiar voice came through the speaker.
"Summer, come back to me. I'll help you secure Marloux's partnership with Stewart Group."
Summer let out a cold laugh, her eyes flashing with determination.
"No need, Trevor. We're over. I'll secure Marloux's partnership on my own."
Chapter 85
Unfinished Business
Finished
On the other end of the call, Trevor's voice was uncharacteristically gentle.
"Summer, I just want to help you. There's no need to be so harsh."
"Help me? Trevor, didn't you just transfer a million dollars to Peyton? And now you want to help me? I can't accept that kind of help." Summer baffled.
Trevor frowned.
How did Summer know he had sent Peyton
that money?
But hearing her confront him with such sha..s, refusing his offer, could it be that she was upset because
of Peyton?
"Summer, are you jealous?" Trevor asked.
"Jealous?" Summer let out a cold laugh as if she had heard the most absurd joke in the world.
"Why the hell would I be jealous? I just think it's disgusting how you try to have it both ways. Why didn't I see you for what you truly are before? No, the problem was, I was blind!" Summer said.
Without hesitation, Summer ended the call.
She didn't want to speak another word to him.
Five years of loving this man, what a waste.
Trevor stared at his phone as the call disconnected.
He dialed again, but all he got was the endless beeping of a blocked number.
Summer had cut him off once more.
His expression darkened as he stared at the screen.
He still didn't know how she found out about the
money.
But from her tone just now... did it mean she still cared?
A surge of joy surged in Trevor's heart.
Sitting in the driver's seat, Summer's chest rose and fell rapidly in anger.
She immediately blocked Trevor's number.
Even if Marloux ended up choosing another mall, she would never beg him for help.
Just then, her phone rang again.
The voice on the other end was deep and magnetic, with a lazy yet seductive drawl.
Summer froze. That wasn't Trevor!
She glanced at the phone number, it was Fraser.
"What's wrong?" Fraser asked.
Fraser stood by the floor-to-ceiling windows of his office, his gaze fixed on the sprawling city skyline. "Who got you this worked up?"
Summer instantly fell silent, feeling a little guilty. "No one, just... some... annoying person."
After a few encounters, Summer had picked up on something, Fraser seemed to dislike Trevor.
Maybe it was just male territorial instinct.
Fraser raised a brow, his voice low and languid. "An annoying person who can make you this upset? Something troubling you?"
"It's a business matter." Summer said.
Summer quickly tried to steer the conversation away. "Why are you calling me?"
This was the first time Fraser had ever called her directly.
She felt a little nervous.
"Can't I call you without a reason?" Fraser questioned.
His voice was so casual, yet it carried a teasing lilt that sent a strange warmth through her ears.
At that moment, an image flashed in her mind, his sharp, wickedly handsome face, lips curled in a knowing smirk.
"That's not what I meant..." Summer embarrassedly replied.
"Have dinner with me tonight." Fraser asked.
"Ah..." Summer hesitated but realized she had no plans. "Alright."
"You don't want to?" Fraser asked.
"No, it's not that." Summer replies.
She just wasn't used to it yet.
"Cloud View Restaurant. I'll send a driver for you later." Fraser said.
Before she could respond, he had already hung up.
Unfinished Business
Just now, he had overheard Summer mention something about Marloux.
He knew that brand well.
The Graham family was one of Marloux' top VIP clients, spending millions there annually.
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Since Stewart Group operated shopping malls, and rumors had circulated about them vying for the luxury brand's domestic expansion, it only made sense that Summer was leading the negotiations.
Fraser narrowed his eyes.
It seemed he needed to do something.,
To ensure his woman could enjoy her dinner without a single worry.
He picked up his phone and dialed. “Ada, set up a meeting with Marloux's director for me."
Cloud View Restaurant.
One of the most exclusive restaurants in Havenbrook, towering above the city at the hundredth floor.
It was named for its unparalleled view, where diners could practically touch the clouds.
Due to its luxurious setting, a single meal here cost at least six figures, and entry required an elite-tier membership card.
Ordinary people wouldn't even get past the lobby.
Even Summer didn't have a membership.
But when she arrived, the staff greeted her with the utmost respect, personally escorting her to the best table in the house.
1
Chapter 86
The View from the Top
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The observation dining table was located on the top floor, a room that was rarely open to the public. Only the extremely wealthy or particularly distinguished individuals were granted access.
As Summer sat down, she immediately felt the eyes of the surrounding diners lingering on her for a
moment.
Curiosity filled the air. Who was this noble lady who had earned such an honor?
Summer leaned back in her seat, one hand resting on her chin, her beautiful eyes casually gazing out.
The vast, deep night sky seemed closer than ever, the evening more enchanting than usual, enveloping the city in its intoxicating allure.
The frustration that Summer had felt earlier that afternoon after being rejected by the head of the Marloux began to dissipate.
It seemed that money really could solve 99% of life's problems.
And if it didn't, it simply meant that there wasn't enough money.
Captivated by the view, Summer couldn't resist taking a few pictures with her cell phone.
She was about to post on Facebook, where she hasn't posted for a long time.
But just as she started to edit her post, a memory suddenly surfaced.
Peyton had once posted about the Cloud View Restaurant on her Facebook.
It was the day before me and Trevor's anniversary.
Trevor had mentioned taking me there to celebrate.
But the night before, Peyton had posted a stunning photo.
The caption was clear. "Spending my favorite man's money on the most delicious dinner."
When I saw the photo, I was really devastated.
I couldn't help but confront Trevor, demanding to know why he had given Peyton access to the Cloud View Restaurant membership.
How had Trevor reacted?
He had dismissed me as making a mountain out of a molehill and left me alone to calm down.
Yes, Trevor was always good at making me "calm down."
Thinking about this, Summer's interest in posting on Facebook faded.
Just then, near the window, Peyton sat at a table, her eyes fixed on the woman at the observation table.
The View from the Top
In the past, Trevor would never treat me like this.
By the sense of being agitated and annoyed, she had invited her close friend Nora Blake to dinner.
But while Nora was in the toilet, Peyton happened to look around.
She saw the Cloud View Restaurant staff leading Summer, who 'was wearing a blue dress, straight to the observation table.
Peyton, who had had a few drinks, felt the alcohol rush into her head.
At that moment, she forgot all restraint. She stood up, her anger palpable, and stormed over.
Summer put down her phone, her peripheral vision catching a figure standing by the marble table.
Thinking it was Fraser, her eyes lit up.
But when she looked up, it was someone she did not want to see.
Summer's expression turned cold.
Peyton, dressed in a custom-made white dress with long flowing hair, stood by the table with her arms crossed and an icy voice. "Summer, what are you doing here?"
Trevor's membership card for the Cloud View Restaurant was in her hand. How did Summer get in?
Summer frowned at Peyton's accusatory tone.
She had no intention of letting Peyton ruin her date.
Summer leaned back in her chair.
"Do I have to report my whereabouts to you?"
Peyton's face turned pale with anger, the alcohol making her expression almost menacing.
"Summer, do you think I want to see you? Did you tell Trevor not to help me with the Marloux? I never thought you could be so devious and cunning. You always act so high and mighty, but deep down, you're just jealous of me. I underestimated you."
Summer couldn't help but laugh.
I had already stepped aside and let them be together.
How could I still be blamed for that?
Even if I had told Trevor not to help, so what?
If Peyton could play like this, why couldn't I?
Typical of a hypocritical schemer.
Summer raised an eyebrow, a mocking smile tugging at her lips. "What? You're trying to get the Marloux too?"
"Oh, I forgot. You are also the daughter of the Smith family, aren't you?"
"So now you want to use the Marloux to curry favor with the Smith family? Let me give you some advice; don't waste your efforts. As far as I know, Diana is not someone'to be trifled with."
Peyton, already seething with anger, felt Summer's words stab her like a knife.
Her usual delicate demeanor vanished.
Unable to control herself, Peyton reached out and grabbed a glass of water from the table, ready to hurl it at Summer.
Chapter 87
However, just as she raised her arm, a strong hand suddenly reached out from behind and grabbed her
wrist.
Before Peyton could react, the hand mercilessly swung her away.
By the power of inertia, the glass in Peyton's hand slipped and spilled its contents, soaking her completely.
Her white dress was instantly soaked, leaving her in a state of utter disarray.
"Who dares!"
Furious, Peyton was about to unleash a torrent of curses.
But when she saw who it was, her arrogant attitude instantly turned to panic.
Standing in front of her was none other than Fraser, the Bossman of Havenbrook. The man was tall and imposing.
He was dressed in a finely tailored black shirt paired with straight-legged dress pants that perfectly accentuated his long, well-built legs.
His entire presence exuded an air of nobility and nonchalance, but at this moment, his dark eyes burned with a cold anger.
Although Peyton didn't know Fraser deeply.
But who in Havenbrook didn't know about Fraser's immense power and influence?
Peyton quickly regained her composure and returned to her usual delicate and submissive demeanor in front of men.
She hastily smoothed her hair.
"Mr. Graham, what brings you here? I... I just had too much to drink. It's not what you think."
Fraser's gaze was cold as ice. "What do I think?"
"It's just... Summer insulted me, and I was so upset that I couldn't control myself."
"Summer, I'm sorry. I know you're jealous of me; that's why you said such harsh things. But this is between us. Can we settle this privately? I'll do whatever you want."
Summer scoffed inwardly.
Peyton was the type to twist the truth and play the victim.
With her pitiful appearance and tearful eyes, few men could resist her act.
Summer felt a surge of anger, worried that Fraser might believe Peyton's lies. She stood up from her chair,
The Fall of Peyton
"Hmph, I'm not Trevor. Your tricks won't work on me."
There was no trace of pity in Fraser's gaze, only icy contempt.
Peyton's face turned red at his words.
I hadn't expected Fraser to be so impervious to her charms and so unyielding. My usual tactics were useless.
Peyton tried to explain further.
But Fraser stepped forward, picked up a handkerchief from the table, and gently took Summer's hand, wiping away the drops of water that had splashed on her.
Fraser looked down, his expression softening, his voice tinged with concern. "Are you okay?"
Summer felt the warmth of Fraser's hand cupping hers.
His touch seemed to send a wave of heat through her body.
Her heart felt like it was on fire, even hotter than the palm of his hand.
Summer whispered, "I'm fine."
Peyton watched the scene and rubbed her eyes in disbelief.
"Good thing my girlfriend says she's fine. Otherwise, Ms. Peyton, you might not be able to go home tonight."
Fraser's deep voice carried a hint of threat, sending an involuntary shiver down Peyton's spine.
Peyton was stunned by the word "girlfriend."
Mr. Graham... girlfriend?
Is Sum... Summer?!
Peyton couldn't believe it. She even wondered if she had misheard.
How could Mr. Graham be interested in someone like Summer, a "secondhand" woman?
What did Summer have to offer anyway?
Fraser's voice, casual yet cold, cut through the air. "Is this restaurant open to everyone?"
The restaurant manager had been standing nearby since Fraser arrived.
After all, everyone who entered this restaurant was either wealthy or influential.
(00)
Although he had heard the commotion at the observation table, the manager had decided not to intervene because he did not want to offend anyone.
But now that Mr. Graham had spoken, and considering that half of the restaurant's shares belonged to the The Fall of Peyton
"Mr. Graham, I'll have her removed immediately?
The manager turned to Peyton, his expression stern.
Finisher
"Miss, I'm sorry, but you have violated the etiquette of our restaurant. From now
on, you are permanently banned from entering our establishment."
As soon as these words were spoken, everyone in the Cloud View Restaurant turned to stare at her.
Peyton felt as if all the blood in her body had been drained away. Her face burned with unprecedented humiliation, and she wished she could disappear into the ground.
She shook her head repeatedly. "No... It's not like that."
Meanwhile, Nora had just emerged from the toilet, completely unaware of what had happened.
Love Drug
Chapter 88
The Aftermath
Before Nora could even react, two large bodyguards grabbed her and dragged her out.
Finished
Nora was both speechless and humiliated. When she saw that Peyton was also being dragged out by the bodyguards, she angrily demanded, "Peyton, what happened? Why was I dragged out with you? What did
you do?"
Peyton, still seething with humiliation, his eyes red, snapped, "Shut up!"
Nora was furious. She swore that she would never deal with someone like Peyton again. She picked up her bag from the ground and stormed off.
Peyton was shaking with rage. She immediately sent out a photo she had secretly taken before being dragged out by the bodyguards.
"Trevor, Summer is betraying you!"
Meanwhile, at a private hospital, Trevor was half-lying on his hospital bed, leafing through a book titled "100 Ways to Win Back Your Wife."
The book contained too many bizarre behaviors that completely contradicted his beliefs.
Reading it made his temples pound.
Halfway through, Trevor couldn't stand it anymore and threw the book on the bed.
The man in the book resorted to kneeling, crying, and even hurting himself to win back the woman he loved.
Wasn't that just crazy?
Just the thought of doing such things made Trevor feel extremely uncomfortable.
Just then, his phone buzzed with a message from Peyton.
He unlocked his phone and opened the message.
What greeted him was a photo of Summer holding hands with a man.
The photo was blurry and shaky, showing only the side profile of the tall man and Summer win her head down, her expression unclear.
But Trevor recognized Summer right away.
Under the photo, Peyton had written something.
"Trevor, Summer is betraying you!"
Trevor's eyebrows were furrowed, and his face darkened with anger. His eyes were fixed on the man's hand in the photo.
The Aftermath
So the reason she had been talking about breaking up all this time was because she had found someone else?
And she had the audacity to blame me for everything?.
A raging fire burned in Trevor's chest.
82%
Finished
He couldn't tell if it was anger, heartbreak, or fear.
All he knew was that these complex emotions were like wild beasts raging inside him.
Unconsciously, his grip on the phone tightened until his knuckles turned white and his hand shook slightly.
After Peyton was dragged out by the bodyguards.
The restaurant manager quickly restored order, and the Cloud View Restaurant returned to its usual calm.
Fraser didn't sit across from Summer as business etiquette would dictate. Instead, he sat right next to her.
Waiters brought out plates of exquisitely prepared, expensive Western dishes.
Fraser lounged lazily in his seat, one arm casually draped over the back of Summer's chair, his deep eyes fixed on her.
This was the first time Summer had
from a "boyfriend."
ienced such open and blatant support
The feeling was both surprising and overwhelming.
Summer's ears turned red under Fraser's gaze. She asked, "Why didn't you believe Peyton's words earlier?"
Fraser raised his eyebrow slightly, his voice lazy and tinged with amusement.
As if her question was absurd.
"Why should I believe her?"
Summer didn't know how to explain.
In the past, whenever something happened, Trevor would always believe Peyton first.
So I had thought... I had thought that Fraser would be the same.
Fraser's long fingers, resting on the back of Summer's chair, reached over to take her hand on the table. He absentmindedly played with her fingers.
After a moment, he casually said, "Summer, I'm biased. Only I can tease my wife." Hearing the word "biased," Summer's heart trembled slightly.
I understood, the underlying meaning of Fraser's words. I was his girlfriend, and he would always stand by me.
The Aftermath
Every woman longed for someone who would unconditionally stand by her,
protect her, and support her.
Regardless of right or wrong.
Regardless of reason.
If she said she disliked someone, he would agree without question.
Instead of taking the moral high ground and analyzing the matter.
Tell her that she wasn't wrong and that she should be magnanimous and not
petty.
Summer had once put so much hope in her family and Trevor, but she had never gotten the answer she wanted.
Gradually, she had grown thorns like a porcupine.
But today, those thorns seemed to have softened.
Fraser held her hand and asked, "Since you're thanking me, is there anything you
haven't told me?
In the distance, the soft sound of a cello filled the air, creating the perfect
atmosphere in the restaurant.
Summer thought for a moment, a flicker of emotion in her eyes.
"The person I was angry with on the phone this afternoon was Trevor. He said... if
I went back to him, he would help me secure the Marloux's entry."
Chapter 89
"Oh?" Fraser's expression darkened, and he let out a sneer. "He thinks he's worthy?"
"So I firmly rejected him."
Summer had confirmed. At this moment, Trevor truly had no place in her heart.
She looked up, her eyes curved into a smile as they met Fraser's gaze. Her eyes sparkled like roses swaying in the summer evening breeze, completely captivating.
Fraser's eyes darkened slightly. He picked up a document from the table and handed it to Summer. "Take a look."
Summer actually had noticed the document when Fraser arrived earlier.
She had wondered what it was, but now when she opened it, her eyes widened in surprise.
It was a signed authorization from Mr. Martin, the head of the Marloux, giving the Graham Group full authority to handle the Marloux's entry.
And Fraser had just handed it to her.
Did this mean that the Marloux, which had arrogantly rejected me this afternoon, was now within my grasp?
Sure enough, the next moment, she heard the man confidently say, "A gift for you."
Summer looked at him in shock. "This document is too precious. What do you want for it?"
Gifts between couples were usually things like jewelry or pearls.
But this was a contract that every major company in Havenbrook was competing for.
"Do I need conditions to help my wife?"
"You should." Summer said.
"Then how about offering yourself tonight?"
Fraser said it in a casual tone, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.
Summer's serious expression immediately turned red.
In such a public place, he wasn't afraid of being overheard.
Summer's eyes darted around before she leaned closer to his ear and whispered, "Sorry, it's that time of the month. I can't satisfy you."
Fraser's eyebrows furrowed, and his expression was one of frustration.
Seeing Fraser like this, no longer the aloof, untouchable figure, but more like a
man denied his candy. Summer couldn't help but smile even more.
A Gift Beyond Measure
Summer stiffened, her former boldness now replaced by compliance.
Fraser picked up a glass of cold water and took a few sips.
Only then did the heat in his body begin to dissipate.
Finished
This woman had learned to deliberately provoke him.
Summer cleared her throat and regained her composure.
"Fraser, thank you for the document. I really need it right now, but this is a
business matter. I can't take advantage of you, so my proposal is that the Stewart
Group will be with the Graham Group, giving double..."
Fraser interrupted her. "Summer, if I were in trouble, would you help me?"
Summer was in question.
"Yes, of course."
After all, he had helped me so many times.
But Fraser probably didn't have any problems that needed my help.
"That's enough. For me, this is just a small favor. If you need anything, just ask."
If you want something, just ask...
Summer's eyelashes fluttered slightly.
Fraser noticed her momentary dazed state.
I had just spoken without thinking.
It seemed that I had startled her a bit.
"This gift is just to make sure that you don't ruin my appetite with your frowns during dinner."
Summer snapped out of her thoughts.
Goodness.
I wouldn't let my emotions show like that, okay?
Fraser said seriously, "After all, you don't look good when you frown."
Summer lowered her head to enjoy the exquisite dishes, occasionally glancing up
at the starry sky, sparkling like gems embedded in the night.
The view from the observation table was breathtaking, offering a panoramic view
of the sky.
A Gift Beyond Measure
"With a woman?" Summer looked at him.
4. 4.
Hearing this, Fraser put down his fork and looked at her with amusement. "Jealous?"
"I'm just... a little curious."
Fraser replied calmly, "What are you thinking? Do I look that free? It was with a client."
At that moment, the phone on the table rang.
Summer glanced at it. It was an unknown number.
A feeling of foreboding rose in her chest.
But the phone continued to ring.
After a moment's thought, Summer decided not to avoid it this time and answered
the call.
An angry voice came over the phone.
"Summer, who is that bitch you are with?"
Fraser, who was sitting nearby, raised an eyebrow at the term "bitch."
Summer's beautiful eyes looked at Fraser as she smiled and said, "I'm with
someone I like. What, do you have a problem with that?"
Beside her, Fraser's lips curved slightly at the words "someone I like," and the coldness on his face gradually disappeared.
On the other end of the line, Trevor let out a cold sneer.
"The person you like is me, right?"
Summer replied, "You overestimate yourself. He's a much better man than you."
Fraser's lips twitched into a small, sweet smile as he picked up his glass and took
a sip.
Chapter 90
The Rivalry Intensifies
Finished
Trevor's veins bulged in his neck as he roared, "Summer, you're just looking for a man to provoke me, aren't
you? There is no one behan me in the entire Havenbrook!"
At that moment, Fraser raised his chin slightly and extended a long, elegant hand toward Summer.
He asked for the phone.
Summer hesitated for a
Moment before handing it over.
Fraser took the phone, lifted his eyelids lazily,
d casually curled his lips.
"Trevor, I am the man who is better than you."
The arrogant, confident voice came through the phone.
Trevor frozen and clutched the phone.
The voice was familiar.
And absolutely despicable!
It was his rival.
"Fra... Fraser?"
"Yes, satisfied?"
Trevor's voice sounded like it was being squeezed out, his back teeth grinding.
"Fraser, you're doing this on purpose! Summer, you foolish woman, Fraser is only targeting you to spite me. Don't believe him."
Fraser's lips curled into a cold smile, his voice carryi a tone of pressure and threat.
"Sorry, but don't bother my girlfriend again. Otherwise, the Graham Group's legal department won't mind making more trouble for you."
With that, he hung up.
Summer blinked.
Fraser put the phone back on the table.
He handed her the shrimp he had just peeled, his tone unreadable as he reminded her, "Eat."
Summer nodded and lowered her head to eat, carefully watching the man's expression.
He showed no emotion.
But somehow, the temperature around them seemed to drop by one degree.
Chapter 90 The Rivalry Intensifies
Summer couldn't help but laugh.
Trevor probably never imagined that someone would call him a mad dog in his lifetime.
Finished
Meanwhile, in the hospital room, Trevor stared at the blackened screen of his phone and threw it against the wall in frustration.
The phone shattered into pieces.
The maid, Leona, who was standing nearby, saw her phone being destroyed.
Her heart sank.
"Mr. Trevor, this is my phone. If you're upset, let's talk about it. There's no need to throw things."
Trevor grated his teeth. "I'll buy you a new one."
His voice, cold and threatening, sent a shiver down Leona's spine.
She decided not to press further about her newly replaced phone.
Who on earth had provoked Mr. Trevor this time?
Summer, holding the gift Fraser had given her, which is the Marloux contract, went straight to Jasper's office.
Standing in front of the office door, she knocked twice out of courtesy before pushing the door open and entering.
To her surprise, she saw someone she hadn't seen in a long time.
It was her brother, Harvey.
Harvey was sitting in a chair, chatting with Jasper. When he heard the door open, he turned to look.
And saw someone he didn't want to see.
Harvey's expression changed; his eyebrows furrowed as a flash of disgust crossed his f
Jasper smiled warmly. "Summer, it's been a while since you've seen your brother, right? He just returned from the Ameros last week."
Summer walked over and smiled. "I know. I heard that he took Mom, Dad and
Margaret on a trip to the seaside a few days ago."
Jasper's smile stiffened.
I had originally planned to invite Summer.
But Harvey had said that Summer wouldn't like it and would feel out of place, so I
had decided against it.
Mon,
The Rivalry Intensifies
right?"
Summer let out a soft laugh.
In the past, Summer would go along with it, saying, "Yes, I don't mind."
But this time, Summer didn't.
Her tone was calm but firm as she spoke in the office, "You didn't invite me, so how do you know if I don't like it?"
Harvey was surprised. He hadn't expected Summer to fight back. "You never went before...
"Harvey, the past is the past and the present is the present. As of today, I'm the director of the Stewart Group. I'm no longer your subordinate; I'm your equal. No,
I actually own 30% of the shares in the Stewart Group."
"Dad, what's going on? Summer is a director? And she owns 30% of Stewart Group's shares?"
Harvey's lips pressed into a thin line as he turned to Jasper for an explanation.
He, the bossman of the Stewart Group, had worked hard in the Ameros for two years before being promoted to the director of the external relations department of the Stewart Group!
And now, Summer, who had done nothing, was not only a director, but also held 30% of the shares?
This was totally unfair!