Chapter 21

Minerva stiffened the moment she saw Frederick. Gerald noticed the sudden change in her expression and followed her gaze to the man walking toward them. Without thinking, he instinctively stepped forward, placing himself between the man and Minerva to create some distance. Seeing this, Frederick's expression darkened. He had come straight from the airport, hoping to see Minerva—only to find another man standing by her side. Gerald glanced at Frederick, then leaned toward Minerva and asked quietly, "Do you know him?" She had expected Frederick to come looking for her, but not so suddenly. Still, she nodded and replied, "He's my brother." Gerald, who now knew the truth about her past with Frederick, simply nodded in understanding. "I'm her boyfriend!" Frederick immediately corrected her, clearly displeased by her answer. Gerald hesitated for a second, then stepped to the side. He didn't go far—just enough to give them some space to talk—but stayed close enough for when Minerva nee