Chapter 1029

Frederick strolled casually to Hazel’s side, his tall frame exuding an easy dominance. Without hesitation, his large hand came to rest on her slender waist—a natural, proprietary gesture. His deep-set eyes sparkled with amusement as they landed on Eden. “Mr. Larry,” he said coolly, “don’t you have anything better to do?” Eden’s smile faltered for the briefest of moments before he regained his usual warm composure. But the gentleness didn’t reach his eyes. His gaze remained fixed on Hazel, sharp with something unspoken. “Hazel,” he asked quietly, “are you really with him?” Hazel paused. The question shouldn't have unsettled her—but it did. Because technically… she and Frederick weren’t really a couple. Not officially. But whatever was—or wasn’t—between them wasn’t anyone else’s business. Certainly not Eden’s. “Mr. Larry,” Hazel said, her voice calm but firm, “whatever relationship Frederick and I share is personal. It has nothing to do with you. I have other things to attend to, so I’ll