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The Billionaire’s Sudden Bride
Chapter 95
Summer’s POV
I tucked the blanket around Grandpa’s frail form as he drifted off to Jeep. Poor thing couldn’t even finish telling me about his chess collection before the meds knocked him out. Watching his chest rise and fall, I felt that familiar ache. He was the only Taylor whod ever truly loved me without conditions.
After adjusting his pillow one last time, I grabbed my purse and braced myself. The vultures were waiting.
The second I stepped into the hallway, Elizabeth pounced, her manicured claws digging into my arm.
“What did your grandfather tell you?” she demanded. “Did he agree to give Victoria the shares?”
I stared at her hand, then slowly raised my eyes. “Let. Go.”
Elizabeth’s grip only tightened. “Answer me!”
I yanked my arm free. “Seriously? Grandpa’s fighting for his life, and all you care about is who gets his damn shares? What kind of daughter are you? I’ve already told you I’m not helping with this twisted scheme.”
“How dare you?” Elizabeth’s face contorted. “You ungrateful little brat! Is this how you speak to your mother?”
“Oh, so you remember you’re my mother?” I laughed bitterly. “That’s rich.”
Victoria stepped between us, her expression a perfect mask of concern. “Summer! God, what’s gotten into you?”
–
She reached for my hand, but I sidestepped her. Right on cue, her eyes filled with tears the same trick that had won her countless
auditions.
“What happened to you?” Richard demanded. “Did your grandfather tell you anything?”
“Just that someone deliberately upset him, which triggered his stroke,” I replied coolly. “Since you two live with him, maybe try caring about his health instead of his portfolio for once.”
Richard’s face darkened. “Watch your tone! If you need money, just ask. But company shares? Absolutely not. You know nothing
about running a business.”
“And there it is,” I said softly. “Your real concern.”
“I’m the CEO of Capital Corp – of course I care!”
“You’re also his son,” I countered. “Have you asked about his condition even once since he collapsed? And you wonder why Grandpa might give his shares to me?”
Elizabeth cut in, “Enough! Just make her hand over the shares!”
“Forget it. I’m not giving you anything.”
Victoria’s eyes narrowed. “So they really are yours now?”
Something shifted in her expression. After a quick glance at Alexander, she completely changed tactics.
Summer, honey,” she cooed, “I’ll buy them from you. Fair and square
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Chapter 95
“Buy them?” I couldn’t help but laugh. “With what money?”
Victoria straightened. “I’ve made plenty in Hollywood! My last three films were-
“If you love entertainment so much, stick with it,” I interrupted. “Wall Street isn’t your scene.”
“I can learn!” she snapped. “Those shares are wasted on you. Someone might take advantage!”
I borrowed Brandon’s cold smile. “I think I’m good. The shares aren’t for sale. Not for any price.”
I hitched my bag higher. “Grandpa’s asleep. I’m leaving.”
Elizabeth blocked my path. “You’re not going anywhere until this is settled!”
“Summer, be reasonable,” Richard used his boardroom voice. “Anything else you want, I can give you.”
“So now you’re threatening me?” I shook my head. “Oh, by the way to someone else.”
Grandpa gave me the shares, but I’ve already transferred them
Richard’s jaw dropped. “What? You gave away the shares? When? To whom?”
–
“I’m not telling you,” I replied evenly. “But I’ll make you a deal manage Capital Corp properly and don’t transfer your current shares, and I guarantee Grandpa’s shares won’t threaten your position. However,” I added, “if you change anything about the current structure, I will take action.”
“Are you threatening me?” Richard’s voice dropped dangerously.
“I’m just being clear,” I met his gaze. “I’m not the same Summer who always caved. The sooner you understand that, the better.”
I caught Victoria’s venomous look and Alexander’s calculating stare.
“I have to go,” I said firmly.
Elizabeth stepped forward. “You stop right there, you ungrateful little bitch!”
.I dodged her easily. “Push me too far, and Capital Corp might find itself under new management entirely.”
As I reached the exit, Alexander caught up. “Summer, wait! Is what you said true? About the shares?”
I slid into my car without acknowledging him. As I pulled away, I made another decision – I was done with Fortune Corp. No more working with Alexander. Time for a fresh start.
The Hamptons estate was quiet when I arrived, Brandon still at work. I headed upstairs with determined steps and gathered all his belongings from the guest room suits, books, watch case, everything.
One by one, I moved them to the master bedroom, arranging his clothes in the empty side of the walk–in closet. I place on the nightstand closest to the door, remembering how he always positioned himself between me and potential threats.
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books
Nchanged the sheets to deep navy, added warm amber curtains, and placed fresh flowers on the dresser – nothing too feminine, just enough to add life to the space.
Downstairs, I made subtle changes to the living room, then headed to the kitchen. My cooking skills were basic, but I’d been practicing secretly. Tonight would be the real test a proper welcome home for my husband.
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Chapter 95
My husband. The words still felt new, but increasingly right.
I was chopping vegetables when I heard the front door open. Earlier than expected perfect. I smiled, listening to his footsteps.
His footsteps moved upstairs, and I imagined his reaction to finding his things moved. Part of me worried he might be upset Brandon was particular about his space. But something told me he’d understand what this gesture meant.
I was arranging plates when I felt him enter the kitchen behind me. Even without turning, I knew he was there – something about the energy shifted when Brandon entered a room.
“Brandon?” I turned, spatula in hand, suddenly feeling oddly shy despite everything we’d shared.
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