Love Beyond the Mask by Adelaide Sinclair

Chapter 664

"It's no problem at all, I'll crash in the guest room," Bryce offered with a considerate tone, making sure not to trouble her. Whitney instantly felt a wave of relief wash over her, nodding gratefully. "Thank you for being so understanding, Bryce..."

"But as much as I understand, Whitney, you can't just spend all your time with the kids and leave me hanging," Bryce joked with a low chuckle, wrapping his arms around her in an affectionate embrace, winking playfully. "You know, I'm just a regular guy too. Don't make me wait too long, okay?"

"I... Bryce... okay," Whitney stammered, her cheeks flushing a deeper shade of red.

Bryce mistook her blush for shyness, leaning in to whisper, "Whitney..." as he kissed her hair gently.

Whitney froze up even more, instinctively ducking her head to avoid further contact. Despite trying to relax, she tensed up as the scent of Bryce's cologne filled her senses a stark contrast to Ludwik's subtle, clean fragrance that seemed to linger with warmth and strength.

Her heart felt tight, confused at her own reactions. Why was she thinking of Ludwik while in Bryce's arms? Was it because she hadn't been close enough to Bryce before their marriage? Or had the past month with Ludwik, with his constant affection and kisses, left her too accustomed to his presence?

Shaking off the intrusive thoughts, Whitney realized she needed to focus.

stiffness but refraining from pushing further. He gently let go, changing the subject. "So, when do you

in Felix's words. She didn't want to hurt

part of the Lippert family. If Ludwik goes to prison, it could really affect them.

will people say? They'll think you were willing, that during our marriage, you let Ludwik have his way with you. They'll call you names, and say you were unfaithful, making me a laughingstock. How can I hold my head high? No matter how successful I am, I'll always be mocked. Have you ever considered my feelings?" Hearing his angry voice and sensing his barely concealed frustration, Whitney felt a deep fear, lost for words. "I didn't mean to ignore your feelings. I agreed before without thinking about the kids. Bryce, I'm sorry.

heart. Is it some kind of twisted love you can't let go? No matter what I do, how

Bryce, with a cold look and a bitter laugh, left the

that? He seemed really upset. What did you guys talk about?" Standing under the dim porch light, Whitney felt a profound weariness. "Tiana, let's not tell Uncle about

but..." Tiana replied, puzzled but obedient as they went

-

hospital, Jason Lippert was slowly coming back to life after a close brush with death. A gentle figure had been by his side, caring for him with a tenderness that felt both familiar and distant. As he finally opened his eyes, he heard her instructing the

staying up with him every night? You seem so worried, barely sleeping. Even the doctors said

heard Ludwik might visit tonight. Don't let on that I've been here. And if Jason asks, don't mention me either.

them, agreed, understanding only that Natalie was Ludwik's mother and Jason's legal wife, a relationship shrouded in layers of unsaid emotions and hidden stories. The nurse nodded, "Alright, Natalie, mum's

figure move towards the door, growing more distant