Ava’s POV
I drew a deep breath, chest tight with nerves. I had to think clearly, but I was dead set on uncovering the truth. A glance at the door reminded me the maid would return soon. Time was slipping away.
The room was quiet except for my ragged breathing. Everything felt suspended, like the night itself was waiting for my next move. I let the air out slowly, steeling myself for what came next.
In a heartbeat, I decided to chase those intruders, slipping out through the window.
It was a wild, reckless move—one I’d later question how I even pulled off—but I did it.
Peering out, the drop hit me hard. The ground looked miles away, and my stomach lurched. For a second, I nearly backed down.
But fear didn’t win. I shoved it aside, gripped the window frame, and started climbing, fin
