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

heart quivering at the intensity of his gaze.

he looked her way, his phone ringing, but he did not leave–almost as

out.

legs are not what they used to be. I’m afraid I’ll need Whitney to take me home, and we can discuss the partnership details on the way. I’ll make sure she gets back

together as he looked at her.

even initiate a simple conversation with him?

this woman still played hard to get. What would it take for her to let go of the

hotel project was imminent. With a furrow of his brow, Ludwik

her heart pounding as Keegan whisked her

Chapter 146

his

he stood casually at a table, his back to

contracts.

his composure unchanged. “You brought your company seal, right?”

not help but ask, “Uncle, why did you discuss

course” Keegan smiled warmly as he patted her cold head. “I know it’s hard for your to decide, so I’m giving

shuddered, a chill spreading from within as tears threatened to spill from

was leading her towards a cliff, and ahead, there was

her sadness, Keegan’s eyes held a hint of scornful laughter. “You need to pull yourself

he guard against you today? You spoke of a partnership, and be

edged with bitterness. “He’s confident I don’t know the truth. A small partnership with me is nothing but a ripple

your seal. He’s

she slowly produced

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

company.

something amiss. “Uncle, didn’t you say your company had moved back home? But this is for an overseas company. Is this gentleman’s? Who

man finally turned around, his features devilishly handsome, a playful smirk

the

mischievous, and that face… Whitney felt an odd

you’re still leaning towards Ludwik, huh? Are you doubting your uncle?” The man’s teasing laughter filled the air. He was clearly enjoying the

overseas company is a joint venture with

pain, and he did not allow Whitney to refute.