Love Beyond the Mask by Adelaide Sinclair

Chapter 146

Keegan clasped his hands together, nodding with a sense of finality. “Glad to hear that. I invited you both out today to bury the hatchet–whether or not you argued, it’s time to make amends.”

Ludwik had indeed not seen Whitney for several days. Though his words were frosty, his heart harbored a hidden warmth, and he shot her chilly glances more than once.

Since Keegan had stepped in to smooth things, Ludwik was willing to give in.

With an awkward scratch of his head and a sheepish look, Keegan broached the subject. “Mr. L, I asked to meet with you today because, well, I have this favor to ask—and it’s not easy for me, believe me. I heard from

Whitney that you’re a big shot in the real estate game, and, as it happens, my little company’s on the brink of being swallowed whole. I don’t suppose you could extend me a lifeline, a partnership of sorts, for Whitney’s

sake?”

Whitney’s fingers tensed, concealing the shock in her eyes as she watched her uncle put on quite the performance.

His humble expression and polite tone set Whitney’s nerves on edge.

She soon turned to Ludwik, her heart secretly hoping for his rejection.

But the man paused, his deep gaze briefly touching her face before he lifted his chin decisively. “A partnership is, of course, no issue.”

Then, with a touch of arrogance, he addressed Whitney, “As the Vice President of United Realty, you can represent me. Handle the paperwork, will you?”

He was coaxing her in his own way, giving her uncle considerable respect.

Whitney got the message.

But she did not want to say, ‘Thank you.‘ Her heart was just too heavy.

Keegan chuckled wryly, “Mr. L, you’re a generous businessman and clearly quite fond of our Whitney.”

Whitney felt alienated, as if she saw a side of her uncle she did not recognize–one that was insincere.

“Well, I won’t take up more of your precious time. Here’s to a fruitful partnership,” Keegan said, emphasizing the last four words with a meaningful look as he extended his hand.

firm, his eyes deep and

at the intensity of

not leave–almost

out.

when her uncle, with a chuckle, said, “My legs are not what they used to be. I’m afraid I’ll

together as he

a simple conversation

to get.

of land for a five–star hotel project was imminent. With a furrow of his brow, Ludwik had no choice but to leave as Felix, his assistant, respectfully waited by the

chair, her heart pounding as Keegan whisked her away to his penthouse.

Chapter 146

his assistant, was another man!

with a suit that hugged his frame, he stood casually at a table, his back to Whitney, holding a

contracts.

the contracts and turned to Whitney, his composure unchanged. “You brought

bag, but as Whitney’s lips tightened, she could not help but ask,

Keegan smiled warmly as he patted her cold head. “I know it’s hard for

shuddered, a chill spreading from within as tears threatened

and ahead, there

held a hint of scornful laughter. “You need to

Uncle, why didn’t he guard against you today? You spoke of a partnership, and be

him?” Keegan’s voice was edged with bitterness. “He’s confident I don’t know the truth.

out your seal. He’s already agreed,” Keegan insisted.

paled as she slowly produced the seal.

the contract without letting her see it properly. She caught a glimpse, but it was for an

company.

had moved back home? But this is for an overseas company. Is this gentleman’s?

devilishly handsome, a playful smirk

was the man from

aura was mischievous, and that face… Whitney felt an

you doubting your uncle?” The man’s teasing

The overseas company is a joint venture with him. This is just a minor collaboration with Ludwik–it won’t be the end of him. But Whitney, you can’t let me down! And don’t waste my ten years of suffering!”

and he did not allow