Chapter 24

Nina had planned to double back, slip to the front yard, and climb the maple tree by the main gate to sneak in through her bedroom window. But before she got close, she heard a commotion in the distance. Her stomach tightened. She instinctively stepped back, then ducked into the shadows beneath the tree. Keeping low, she crept along the wall and peeked ahead. At the villa's entrance, a group of staff trailed behind the butler, carrying in piles of belongings. Judging by the amount, they wouldn't finish anytime soon. Her brows drew together. With a quiet sigh, Nina decided to change her route. The only way to her room from the back courtyard was through the living hall. She figured if Yvan could come looking for her, the Smiths must have already left by now. But as she got closer, her heart sank. She never expected the living room to brim with people, and even Yvan sat back in his spot. Spotting maids with drinks heading her way, Nina clenched her teeth and ducked behind a shrub be