Love Beyond the Mask by Adelaide Sinclair

"Whitney..." Bryce's face lit up with surprise, especially after he caught a glimpse of Ludwik making an appearance from the corner of his eye.

Wrapping an arm around Whitney's slender waist, a bright smile spread across Bryce's face as he said in an upbeat tone, "No matter what others say, all I can say is that our big day is just around the corner. Also, Skye Gem Ltd. is about to launch a limited edition collection inspired by our love story, hitting the market at rock-bottom prices. Trust me, folks, a good piece of jewelry? The connoisseurs can spot it a mile away. So, feel free to shop around, or even better, reserve your spot today. These slots are golden!" The society lady was taken aback, not expecting their wedding date to be already set. The other patrons, walking by, started to second-guess. The quality of jewelry, after all, was something everyone could judge. Skye Gem Ltd. was known for its impeccable selection. Only, they had just been mocking the woman behind the brand.

With a determined look, Whitney saw the tide turning in her favor. She turned to Nyx, "Grab a few tablets, pull up last night's news. Let the customers have a good look. After all, they love Skye Gem Ltd.'s jewelry and might become repeat customers. I wouldn't want misunderstandings about me to get in the way of their shopping experience."

Finishing her statement with a playful tone, she shoved a tablet into the hands of the stunned society lady.

"Ladies and gents, my boyfriend and I were caught in a snap, a deliberate invasion of privacy, stirring trouble online. The person who hired the detective, I've found through evidence, was none other than my dear sister, Florence. She thrust me into the spotlight, hoping to scare me away from Ludwik's side. But she thought too much. A man like Ludwik, even if handed to me on a silver platter, I wouldn't take. The truth is in black and white, right here for you to see. Ms. Sheldon's attempts to tarnish my reputation were nothing but a ploy." After reading yesterday's news clarification, the society lady was utterly shocked. The wave of sympathy for Whitney online made her cringe in embarrassment.

She awkwardly quipped, "Well, you could've shown me this evidence sooner! Yesterday's gossip was all about you, playing between two men, acting indecently. I was so enraged because I've encountered such shameless mistresses before. Ms. Valentine, my apologies. The jewelry's pretty decent, and now that your character's no issue, I won't be returning my purchase."

With an air of affluence, her change of attitude silenced many patrons around. Having seen the truth in the news, they now understood the full story.

Standing tall, Whitney's smile broadened as she announced, "Skye Gem Ltd. has more offers today, including a 20% discount on purchases over $600,000. Don't miss out on top-notch jewelry that's just as luxurious as any premier brand."

As the staff resumed their duties, harmony was restored to the showroom. Turning around, Whitney locked eyes with someone.

momentarily lost for words. Ludwik approached, his presence commanding, his suit accentuating his striking features. Without a glance her way, his cold, expressionless demeanor was

Parker started, attempting to shift the topic, "The mall meeting's over, but the manager still wishes to discuss future plans with you. Also, regarding the lease issues, he assumed your approval to allocate the prime

as he glanced back at Whitney, then both men disappeared. Whitney steadied herself against the gleaming counter, taking in Parker's words. Pearl Plaza was part of the Lippert Group's empire. Her securing such a prime

about marrying Bryce next month? Better if he

let go of Ludwik after seeing him? Regret announcing our wedding next month?" Bryce approached, having noticed

uncertainty, "Bryce, I haven't really decided on our wedding...

dejected, replied, "You don't have to explain. Whether you want to rush into it or wait for the right moment, I respect your decision. After all,

nodded absentmindedly, thinking she should proceed with the wedding soon,

on the screen, Whitney knew exactly why she was calling. With a smirk Whitney stepped into a

bitch!" Florence's voice was filled with venom, her image tarnished by

Whitney's face was a kaleidoscope of frustration and fury. "Have you lost your mind? How dare you show your teeth at me, do you forget I still have your son

her phone tighter, choosing silence over confrontation. Even though Florence had Sammy as leverage, she wouldn't harm a hair on his head just because Whitney fought back. After all, Sammy was her golden ticket to force Whitney out of Ludwik's

other end. Holly and her daughter locked eyes, a silent conversation passing between them. They had their answer. Whitney was still

Florence's eyes narrowed sinisterly,

nep