Love Beyond the Mask by Adelaide Sinclair

Chapter 34

Her gaze was pointed with an unmistakable intention. The man’s eyes narrowed, and he quickly stood up, tossing her copy of “Gemstone Gazette” to the side.

“Hey, why’d you chuck my heartthrob, huh?” Whitney immediately cradled the book to her chest like a prized possession. “Once you gave it to me, it’s mine. It’s got works by the world’s jewelry maestro, L.C., in it. I plan to cuddle up with this book in bed!”

The man paused for a moment, then let out a meaningful chuckle. “L.C. is your heartthrob?”

“Yep, he’s the man I admire most.”

“Oh.” Whitney could not fathom the deepening amusement in the crook of his smile.

She muttered, “L.C.’s insights on jewels are the sharpest and most profound! Sadly, nowadays, many jewelry firms have strayed from their true calling. Take Imperial Gem Corporation, for instance. That Mr. Lippert is all businessman, full of sneaky tricks. I just hope he doesn’t accept any kickbacks for Monica’s painting. If he does, may his ego shrink by 4 inches!”

A sudden chill replaced the lazy amusement beside her.

Whitney did not notice. “Hmph, serves him right if he ends up lonely and childless.”

A piece of candy was abruptly shoved into the young woman’s mouth, effectively silencing her.

October 1st arrived swiftly, marking the opening of the grand jewelry competition.

Designers from all levels of jewelry companies were to enroll at the Imperial Gem Corporation tower. Tiana accompanied Whitney early to the event. As they spotted Monica’s car outside, Tiana snorted coldly, “Monica sure got here early! After her reputation took a hit at the charity gala, the Valentines must have been busy throwing money at PR. Preston must be on the verge of a heart attack because of that mother–daughter duo.”

Whitney’s lips curled slightly. “Their reputations have been tarnished, and the high society is whispering about them. Preston, of all people, cares about reputation the most. Plus, with Phebe opposing the engagement, Monica is desperate to dazzle at this competition to win over Preston and secure a lavish wedding. Besides, this competition is a bet between her and me; she’s bound to take it seriously.”

Tiana smirked, “With Monica’s reputation in shambles, if you take a swipe at her career and ensure her defeat, I bet the Valentines will be even more annoyed with her. When the family crumbles, you can reclaim your company and exact revenge.”

Whitney’s eyes narrowed, contemplating éxactly that.

As they entered the grand lobby of Imperial Gem Corporation, Monica descended from the executive elevator with Simon in tow, both sporting smiles.

Upon spotting Whitney, Monica’s pride soared. She pulled Whitney aside, her voice dripping with malice, “Sis, you’re here, too? I’m afraid an unknown designer like you won’t catch Mr. Lippert’s attention. Just so you know, Mr. Lippert accepted and adored my landscape painting. You don’t stand a chance, bitch.”

Whitney blinked in surprise, and Tiana’s face stiffened.

“Simon, thanks for spending 26 million dollars on the painting for me!” Monica sweetly returned to Simon’s side, flaunting their affection.

eyes, however, fliekered

fists. That insufferable Mr.

remained calm, her voice icy. “A man who spends 26 million on you but

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your back? Better watch

Monica stiffened.

nonsense

glance and walked

registration event was held in the third–floor conference room. When the handsome figure of the Imperial Gem Corporation’s boss appeared,

man bore an extraordinary countenance, a testament to God’s favor, with a tall and imposing physique. Wherever he

Mr. Lippert himself is here!” A

everything, this infuriating man is just too

at the sight of the man. A titan of the jewelry industry, he held sway over business life and death. He was more dashing and capable than

caught sight of the name Ludwik, mouthing

the man of high stature frowned

formality–designers introducing themselves and presenting their credentials. Unlike Whitney’s prior battles with him, the elusive Mr.

Whitney grumbled internally, the man in charge asked in a deep, severe

she slowly rose, “That would be

inquisitively, glancing at her dismissively. “You lack

Whitney cursed him inwardly.

is a pleasure to meet you.

Do you have a

and profound demeanor were making

Lippert seemed to have a

her

frowning critically, “You look decent enough,

was questioning her

“Good enough. Maybe even

Lippert! Does she even

Monica’s smirk widened.

voice low, “Meeting adjourned! Whitney, stay behind. We need to have

on his

he had a knack

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