Chapter 653

“Are there ripe grapes in our orchard? Pick a few bunches and bring them in,” Simona instructed a nearby maid.

Skylar followed Simona, mentally calculating that she wouldn't arrive home until eight or nine o'clock that evening. During the drive, Simona mentioned the sheer volume of items she needed to inspect.

Once inside the mansion, they ascended to the third floor, a space not divided into rooms but filled with antiques. The sheer number of items—from paintings and antique pocket watches to bronze artifacts and emeralds—was overwhelming.

“There are quite a few things,” Skylar remarked, surprised.

Simona, slightly embarrassed, explained, “My brother’s birthday was a few days ago, and he received many gifts. I haven’t been up here in a couple of days and didn’t realize how much had accumulated.”

Skylar began systematically examining the items. The task would be time-consuming. Simona quietly observed, captivated by Skylar’s focus and professionalism. Even as a woman, she found Skylar’s demeanor incredibly charming, imagining the effect on men—Caleb, for instance, now Skylar's willing assistant.

Skylar indicated several items, instructing, “Take pictures of these first.” Simona immediately complied.

Half an hour later, a maid brought washed grapes, other fruits, and tea. “Skylar, would you like to sit down, have some tea, and eat some fruit? I’ve just asked them to prepare dinner,” Simona offered. She expected Aiken home soon; he'd called that morning to confirm joining her for dinner. She hadn't anticipated Skylar's visit today, expecting her in a couple of days.

“No need, I’m not hungry yet. Let’s finish looking through everything first,” Skylar replied, her eyes fixed on the well-preserved, clearly valuable paintings.

At that moment, a voice interrupted. “The maid mentioned you brought a friend over?”

Simona spun around at the sound of Aiken's voice. “Aiken!” she exclaimed.

Aiken looked at Skylar, concerned about someone being brought directly to the third floor, a space containing incredibly valuable items and a tempting target for greed. Simona’s kind nature made her easily deceived, and Aiken was determined to protect her. As his gaze fell on Skylar’s profile, he paused, recognizing a familiar look.

Upon hearing their conversation, Skylar turned. Aiken's eyes widened in surprise. No wonder she seemed familiar.