Chapter 12

Frederick couldn't believe it. Algernon and Maxine had always been aware of his relationship with Minerva, yet they had still gone as far as to formally adopt her. What shook him even more was that Minerva had agreed to it without hesitation. The only conclusion he could come to was painfully clear—Minerva no longer loved him. Adopting her into the family would permanently eliminate any chance of them being together. The thought spun endlessly in his head as he rushed upstairs toward Minerva's old bedroom. His legs trembled uncontrollably, and in his haste, he missed a step on the staircase. Frederick lost his footing and tumbled down the stairs, his body hitting each step with a sickening thud. The sharp pain in his limbs sent some clarity back into his mind. Gritting his teeth, Frederick slowly pulled himself upright and forced his way back up the stairs. By the time he reached her door, his breath was shallow, but a small part of him still dared to hope. Maybe she was just