Chapter 1039

After Neithan and Hazel's voices faded into the distance, Lucas adjusted his gold-rimmed glasses. The gentle smile he wore moments ago disappeared. Before he could speak, Frederick asked calmly, “How do you know Hazel, Brother Lucas?” “I gave a lecture at Jing University yesterday. She came with Helen,” Lucas replied. His narrow, phoenix-like eyes regarded Frederick carefully through the lenses. “Frederick, are you serious about her?” A faint smirk tugged at Frederick’s lips. “Brother Lucas, when have I ever not been serious?” Lucas’s expression sobered. “Good—if you truly mean it. But remember, Hazel is Hazel. Jane is Jane. If you're serious, then respect her for who she is.” He didn’t outright tell Frederick not to treat Hazel as a substitute for Jane, but the warning was clear. Frederick met his gaze without flinching. “What if Hazel is Jane? You’ve always believed she was still alive.” Lucas’s heart skipped a beat. The moment he saw Hazel standing beside Helen yesterday—with those