Love Beyond the Mask by Adelaide Sinclair

Chapter 225

Jason watched as Ludwik methodically crushed his cigarette, his expression stoic.

Without prying further, Jason’s gaze darkened, “The help you need, consider it done.”

Ludwik, a man of few words, stood and bowed slightly. “I’m grateful, take some rest.”

With that, he walked out, his presence cool and detached.

Jason slightly furrowed his brows as he watched Ludwik’s retreating figure.

The door swung open, and Zane and Delphine entered, accompanied by Elaine, all wearing bright smiles.

“Good to see you, Jason,” Elaine said, her voice laced with restrained excitement.

“Sooner or later, you’ll have to change how you address him, silly girl,” Zane chuckled deeply, approaching Jason with a lower voice. “Are you happy to see Ludwik? Actually, he’s had a fallout with Kaden. The timing seems right; maybe you could…”

Jason’s eyes dimmed, a man of his stature feeling a rare twinge of uncertainty. He sighed. “The kid had a tough time with his mother when he was young, and I didn’t help. He’s too proud and aloof; now isn’t the right time; he won’t accept…”

Zane carefully interjected, “Don’t blame yourself. You didn’t know back then.”

“Let’s discuss this another time. He turned out quite well, I’m impressed.” Jason’s eyes showed

a hint of approval, and he kept it low–key, “Mr. Bartels, I appreciate the invitation.”

“A young one’s engagement is indeed an occasion to have you,” Zane replied with utmost respect as he saw Jason off.

Back in the lounge, Delphine could barely contain her excitement, “Jason’s been in the military for so long, it’s rare to catch a glimpse of such an influential figure. It’s because of our Elaine. She’s really held onto Ludwik’s heart. He has unlimited potential. Congratulations, my daughter. You have cut through the thorns, driven away that wretch Whitney, and today, you’ll become the future Mrs. Lippert!”

“Thanks to you, Mom and Dad, for introducing me to Ludwik early and helping me deal with that wretch. Tonight, I will become Ludwik’s woman, and Whitney will never have a chance to come back. We need to find a way to get rid of her for good!”

Delphine’s eyes narrowed. “The die is cast. It should be easy for you to deal with her. Just make it clean! Our family and the Tennyson affairs should never see the light of day. So, no survivors from the Tennyson family. As for Whitney’s uncle, find a chance to seal his lips in prison.”

Zane nodded heavily. “Leave it to you, Elaine. Tonight, you must secure Ludwik to avoid any further complications.”

demurely and nodded.

the wedding banquet, Nolan

to be pouring his own

Ludwik was distracted,

difficult to approach him.

Elaine fluttered over like a graceful butterfly.

capturing the moment.

forced a smile and embraced her affectionately, announcing to his friends, “The party’s over. Elaine’s not feeling well;

not jest about hurrying to the bridal chamber as they usually would at

They simply nodded.

left by

maids, her long gown trailing behind her as she

on the sofa, his handsome face reflected in the vast windows.

deep pools, held secrets and a

lit cigarette after cigarette, pressing his brow as if to ease some

the maids nowhere in

in a black see–through gown with a high slit, her fair upper body

on Ludwik’s long legs, mermaid–like, looking

at her deeply, her cleavage in plain view, but his eyes struggled to ignite

he averted his gaze, speaking softly, “Elaine, there’s some water on the table. You’re hardly dressed; have a sip to warm

by his care,

drop linger on her lips, glistening as

collarbone.

admired the slight openness of his shirt, the alluring collarbones,

rush.” Ludwik gently held her hand, frowning

Ludwik? You don’t like it here? I sent the maids away, and there’s no one to disturb us. Or

was full of shy anticipation as she clung to his

was evasive, and he stood up abruptly, pushing her aside, “What I meant by not

now, just a marriage certificate away. What’s stopping us? I’ve waited

isn’t ready for this,” Ludwik found an excuse, his tall

What was wrong with him wanting to take Elaine? Whitney had cheated on him long

and closed his eyes, all he saw was that