Love Beyond the Mask by Adelaide Sinclair

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.

Did she not trust him? Was she afraid her small business would be harmed?

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

awoke to

his imposing figure emerging from the dressing room, his masked handsome face portrayed seriousness

leaving, he tossed her

know what you

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

United Realty Corporation, complete with an

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Chapter 95

largest real estate firm in the country! Almost every upscale mansion in Banyan City was built by

her husband really

dollars, but the market

arrived at the office and shared the

Gem Corporation and Skyfaith Electronic Tech, the technology giant! I can’t

I do? Suddenly, him being so wealthy seems kinda hot. I

love for

even joined me for a barbecue dinner last night… When I first

to pay you not to snitch

an important partnership to discuss today.” She immediately dialed her college buddy, Cooper, who had

business, and Skye Gem urgently needed new

the conversation took an unexpected turn. “Whitney, the thing is, I’m just the director, a small fry. Our chairman heard I was closing a big deal with Skye Gem and wants to oversee it personally. He’ll

chairman is coming, I should pick a different

prefers to keep it low–key.

polite goodbye,

the tall man standing by the desk, with a slight

early at the Lotus Clubhouse, only waiting a

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

his tall stature and outstanding demeanor. His eyes

Lutz?” Whitney

the boss, instinctively asking, “Whitney, you

was modest and did not want to boast, so she

on her, and he said first, “I’ve met Ms. Valentine once before because of my

voice was warm and