Chapter 1037

Hazel tilted her little face upward, gazing at Frederick. His eyes were closed, long lashes casting delicate shadows across his flawless skin. His heartbeat was steady, his breathing even. Realizing he had fallen asleep, she carefully wriggled out of his embrace, tiptoeing off the bed and creeping toward the door like a thief. Her plan was simple: sneak next door and warn Helen to leave before Frederick woke up. But just as she cracked open the door, the bedroom next door opened too. Helen stepped out, yawning and stretching. Before Hazel could say a word, Helen's eyes flicked past her—and a strained yet polite smile spread across her face. "Morning, Brother Frederick!" "Mmm. Morning." A familiar voice behind her made Hazel jump. She spun around—only to crash straight into Frederick’s chest. He caught her effortlessly, pulling her close. Stiffening in his arms, she looked up at his handsome face, awkwardly forcing a smile. Frederick ruffled her hair, holding her tighter. "Hungry? What