Chapter 242
Summer’s POV
Brandon and I had been walking along the riverside path for over an hour, our footsteps falling into a comfortable rhythm as students from Columbia occasionally passed by.
It struck me then how much my life had changed. Before Brandon, I been constantly scrambling–fighting for respect from the Taylors, struggling to stand on my own feet. But with Brandon, that feeling had disappeared. His strength wasn’t just physical–it was the quiet certainty that with him, I would never again feel lost.
I breathed in the crisp air, savoring this rare moment of peace.
“What are you thinking about?” Brandon’s deep voice pulled me from my thoughts.
I was about to answer when something caught my eye on the pedestrian bridge ahead. A young couple–probably Columbia students -were engaged in what looked like a playful argument. The girl was swaying slightly, one hand tugging at her boyfriend’s jacket.
I couldn’t help but smile at the scene.
“What’s so funny?” Brandon asked, following my gaze.
“Nothing, I just…” I sighed contentedly. “Sometimes I forget how beautiful the world can be.”
We watched as the boy crouched down, extending his hands behind him. The girl’s face lit up with a victorious grin. She took a few steps back, hitched up her skirt, and made a running leap onto his back.
She jumped with too much enthusiasm, nearly sending them both toppling over. The boy caught her just in time.
“Jesus, Rachel!” we heard him scold. “Could you be any more reckless? Good thing I caught you! What would’ve happened if I
didn’t?”
The girl just giggled, wrapping her arms around his neck. “Come on, get up! You promised you’d carry me.”
He stood with a theatrical groan. “Seriously though, what if I hadn’t caught you?”
“Then I would’ve fallen, duh!” she replied cheerfully. “But I would’ve dragged you down with me.”
“You’re impossible,” he sighed.
“That’s called sharing the good times and the bad, babe,” she declared.
I shook my head as they disappeared, unable to contain my laughter.
Brandon was watching me, not the couple. His eyes held that intensity that still made my heart skip.
“Want to try it?” he asked suddenly.
I blinked. “Try what?”
“Carrying you,” Brandon clarified. “I’ll carry you home.”
“Are you serious?” I scoffed. “No way!”
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Chapter 242
I turned and marched ahead. Behind me, I heard Brandon’s footsteps quicken. Before I could react, he had caught up and–in one smooth motion–swept me up into his arms.
“Brandon!” I squealed. ‘What are you doing?!”
“You said you didn’t want me to carry you on my back, he replied matter–of–factly. “So I’m carrying you like this instead.”
“Put me down!” I hissed, mortified. My eyes darted around at the amused glances from passersby. “Everyone’s looking!”
My face burning, I buried my head against his chest. “This is so embarrassing, I mumbled into his coat.
When we arrived back at the Hamptons estate, I was surprised to see lights still on in the living room. Brandon had finally put me down before we reached the front door but was still holding my hand as we stepped inside.
Gavin and Meave were sitting on the sofa, watching a late–night show.
“Uncle Gavin, Aunt Meave,” Brandon said, caught off guard. “You’re still up?”
Gavin’s eyes twinkled with amusement. “Coming back so late? Must have been quite the date night.”
I felt my face flush as I quickly knelt to take off my boots and hand Brandon his slippers.
“We just wanted to give you two some privacy,” Brandon explained. “I figured you wouldn’t get much alone time at the Stark
mansion.”
Gavin chuckled. “Ah, yes, make it sound like you did it all for our benefit.”
He turned to me. “Did you have a good time today, Summer?”
“We had a wonderful time,” I replied. “Brandon mentioned it’s your wedding anniversary today. I hope you had a lovely celebration.
“Oh, we did,” Meave said, exchanging a fond look with Gavin.
“Actually,” I added, reaching into my bag, “we got you something while we were out.” I pulled out a small gift box. “It’s nothing, fancy, but we thought you might like it.”
Meave eagerly opened it to reveal a beautifully crafted protection charm.
“We got it from that old church near Columbia University,” I explained. “It’s supposed to bring protection and good health. I know it’s just symbolic, but better safe than sorry, right?”
Meave’s eyes shone. “Summer, this is so thoughtful! I absolutely love it.”
While Meave was admiring her gift, I went to make some tea. When I returned, Brandon and Gavin were deep in conversation.
-so naturally you’ll be hosting again this year,” Gavin was saying. I don’t need to be there cluttering up the stage.”
I set the tray down. “You’re not attending the annual párty, Uncle?” I asked. “But aren’t you a major Stark Group shareholder? Even if you’re not actively evolved anymore, you’re still part of the company.”
Gavin hesitated. “I’d rather not,” he admitted. Meave hasn’t been feeling her best lately, and those parties can be overwhelming. I’m concerned it might be too much for her.”
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Chapter 242
“Nonsense,” Meave interrupted, “Summer’s right, Gavin. You’re a Stark Group shareholder–you can’t keep skipping the annual party.
look after me.” My health is fine. You could go by yourself. The staff can
“Absolutely not!” Gavin replied ehemently. “Brandon always handles these events perfectly. I’d rather stay home with you.”
Meave sighed. “Gavin, you’re making me feel like a burden.”
“Don’t ever say that,” Gavin said, his voice softening as he took her hand. “You’ve never been a burden. Nothing is more important to me than you.” He paused. “If it means that much to you, I’ll attend. But only if you come with me–just for a brief appearance.”
Meave nodded, satisfied. “Brandon, how are the preparations coming along?”
“Everything’s almost ready,” Brandon replied. “The event is in five days. I’d be honored if you’d both attend.”
A brief silence fell before Meave ventured, “And your parents…”
“I assume…” Brandon said, his tone carefully neutral, “They’ll be there.”
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