Love Beyond the Mask by Adelaide Sinclair

Chapter 95

Ludwik flicked off the main lights, enveloping her in silence and his undeniable warmth. Sensing something was not right, Whitney’s cheeks flushed as she caught a glimpse of his toned midriff under the covers. Yet, he made no further moves, merely gazing at her with a bemused expression as she lay there, stuffed and nearly delirious from the hearty barbecue dinner. He gently tapped her forehead and murmured, “Time to sleep.”

She smelled wonderful. Nestled beside her, he finally had a good night’s rest.

The comforting scent that lulled him to sleep was a mystery, reminiscent of the girl who had saved him that night years ago, magical almost.

His phone screen lit up silently as he was about to drift off. He switched it to mute–it was a call from Elaine.

Ludwik propped himself up slightly, causing Whitney to murmur in discomfort before turning over to continue her slumber.

He smiled softly, tucking her in before stepping onto the balcony and closing the door behind him to take the call.

“What?” Elaine only called for work–related matters, he knew.

On the other end, Elaine detected his icy tone and felt a mixture of relief and a tinge of jealousy. She had intentionally called at this hour, hoping to interrupt intimate moments. But his voice betrayed no hint of such activities. Had he really not touched Whitney again?

Elaine’s frown eased as she got to business, “I’m sorry to bother you this late, Bro, but there’s something about Whitney. She turned down the two vendors you recommended for her. Maybe she doesn’t want your help, or she’s looking for someone else?”

Ludwik paused mid–drag of his cigarette, his brows furrowing as he exhaled into the night.

He said nothing more than a curt, “I see.”

Elaine could sense his displeasure. “Do you want me to find out which vendor Whitney’s in touch with?”

“Yeah,” Ludwik responded before ending the call.

He put out his cigarette and returned inside. His towering form approached the bed where Whitney lay; her delicate features softened in sleep.

The furrow between his brows deepened. He had good intentions in helping her; why had she refused?

He did not understand. She had not mentioned it in the car earlier. The Imperial Gem Corporation was already a rival to Skye Gem Ltd. He had lowered his pride to assist her.

she not trust him? Was she afraid

cheek, his expression still tender. Perhaps it was time to let her get to know him better and dispel her

Whitney awoke to prepare for

tying his tie, his imposing figure emerging from the dressing room, his

before leaving, he tossed her a smile and said, “Come by my office

know what you do now?”

to my business. I don’t mind you knowing some of it, seeing what I’m up to.” He flicked a business

down at it: United Realty

22.21

Chapter 95

largest real estate firm in the country! Almost

her husband really

billion dollars, but the market value of

turmoil, Whitney arrived at the

was stunned. “United Realty Corporation is one of Banyan City’s most mysterious companies, aside from Imperial Gem Corporation and Skyfaith Electronic

kinda hot.

your love

a barbecue dinner last night… When I first met him, I had no idea how wealthy he was.

pay you not to

I’ve got an important partnership to discuss today.” She immediately dialed her college

gemstone business, and Skye Gem urgently needed new supplies after recalling a batch of fake jewelry. Whitney naturally

a small fry. Our chairman heard I was closing

raced, instantly switching to professional mode. “If the chairman is coming, I should pick a

to keep it low–key. Just come as

a polite goodbye, Whitney hung

boss, the tall man

Lotus Clubhouse, only waiting a few minutes before

entered first, and as Whitney stood to greet him, she froze at the

distinguished air. His handsome features complemented his tall stature and outstanding demeanor. His eyes lifted in

Lutz?” Whitney

boss, instinctively

was modest and did not want to boast,