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?

it was time to let her get to know him better and dispel

morning, Whitney awoke to

the dressing room, his masked handsome

work, but before leaving, he tossed her a smile and said, “Come by

letting me know what

a lot to my business. I don’t mind you knowing some of it, seeing

at it: United Realty Corporation, complete with an

22.21

Chapter 95

Realty Corporation was the largest real estate firm in the country! Almost every upscale mansion in Banyan City was

her husband

was worth 20 billion dollars, but the market value of United Realty Corporation was

her heart in turmoil, Whitney arrived at the office and

Imperial Gem Corporation and Skyfaith Electronic Tech, the technology giant! I can’t believe United Realty Corporation is your husband’s. Madam, you’ve

Suddenly, him being so wealthy seems kinda hot. I think I’m

your love for money

night… When I first met him, I

pay

to discuss today.” She

gemstone business, and Skye Gem urgently needed new supplies after recalling

is, I’m just the director, a small fry. Our chairman heard I was closing a big deal with Skye Gem and wants

mode. “If the chairman is coming, I should pick a different restaurant. How about the Lotus Clubhouse? I’ll

keep it

a polite goodbye, Whitney hung

his boss, the tall man standing

arrived early at the Lotus Clubhouse, only waiting a few minutes before

him, she froze

his tall stature and outstanding demeanor. His eyes lifted in surprise,

Lutz?” Whitney

glanced at the boss, instinctively asking,

did not want to boast, so

gaze locked on her, and he said first, “I’ve met Ms. Valentine

was warm and pleasant, quite