Chapter 76: At His Mercy
When has Summer ever gotten involved with Fraser? What kind of involvement? Summer was momentarily at a loss for words. She wasn’t ready to let Jasper know about her relationship with Fraser just yet.
She had some idea of how Jasper had used her before, leveraging Trevor’s influence to bypass obstacles. She couldn’t fathom how Trevor had tolerated Jasper taking advantage of him time and time again.
Summer lifted her gaze slightly. “What kind of relationship could we possibly have?”
Jasper didn’t press her. He only cared about the outcome. He stood up and got straight to the point. “Belvare’s luxury brand, Marloux, is preparing to enter the domestic market. If we can secure them as a tenant in Stewart Group’s malls, it will elevate the company to a whole new level.”
His gaze locked onto Summer. “I want you to negotiate this deal.”
Marloux was the pinnacle of Belvare’s luxury brands and had never entered the domestic market before. Even if it did, it would only be in the most elite shopping centers or exclusive luxury districts. The likelihood of it settling in a Stewart Group mall was slim. Which meant the challenge was significant. It seemed the billion-dollar investment had only fueled Jasper’s ambition further.
Noticing Summer deep in thought, Jasper smirked and dangled an irresistible incentive. “If you close this deal, the position of Stewart Group’s director is yours.”
Summer arched a brow. Jasper truly understood her desires. He knew exactly how to use that title to tempt her. It wasn’t entirely out of the question to give it a shot.
Seeing her interest, Jasper continued, “It won’t be difficult. I’ve already looked into it. Marloux’s domestic representative is a friend of Trevor’s. As long as you and Trevor…”
Before he could finish, Summer impatiently cut him off. “Dad, how I handle it is my concern. You don’t need to interfere. You’ve always cared only about the result, haven’t you?”
There was no way she would reach out to Trevor. Jasper gave her a knowing look and patted her shoulder. “Alright. Then I’ll wait for your good news.”
After he left, Summer did some research on Marloux. Only in recent years had it begun modernizing its appeal, though it remained a high-end luxury brand tailored to the wealthy. For a brand of this caliber to enter the domestic market, the prestige of the shopping mall would be a critical factor. Stewart Group’s malls were comprehensive, not specialized luxury shopping centers. That made the challenge even greater. But if Marloux could be brought in, it would mark a major step forward for the entire Stewart Group.
Summer mulled over the problem but found no clear solution. Stewart Group lacked any distinct advantage or leverage. Then, out of nowhere, Fraser’s strikingly handsome face surfaced in her mind. He was the head of Havenbrook’s most elite family. If he was willing to help, securing this deal would be effortless.
But Summer quickly shook her head. That billion-dollar investment had already bound her to Fraser before she even realized it. If she sought his help again, she’d be completely at his mercy. Forget it. She’d find another way.
Outside, the sky had darkened. It was nearly seven o’clock. That afternoon, Fraser had sent her a message: “Come to my place.” After leaving the office, Summer hesitated for a moment before driving to Skycrest Villa. On the way there, her emotions were conflicted. The last time she had gone to Skycrest Villa, she had been seeking a favor. This time, she was going as his girlfriend.
As she approached the entrance, the security guards seemed to recognize her car. The intricate wrought-iron gates swung open without delay. Summer didn’t drive straight in. She wasn’t sure if it was just her imagination, but in the rearview mirror, she thought she caught the security guards exchanging a knowing glance.
Following the designated path, she pulled into the expansive, grand parking lot. Rows of luxury cars—at least a dozen limited-edition models—stood in pristine silence.
How much is all this worth? Any one of these vehicles must cost at least ten million. Given our current relationship, can I borrow one for a spin?
Summer smirked slightly, pressing her lips together, then grabbed her keys and shut the car door. As she turned around, she saw Fraser leaning casually against the wall, arms crossed, watching her with an amused expression. Under the soft glow of the moonlight, his gaze carried a warmth that seemed almost intoxicating. Their eyes met unexpectedly, colliding in midair.