Love Beyond the Mask by Adelaide Sinclair

Chapter 740

Whitney felt a wave of irritation, though she knew she might be overreacting a bit.

After all, what businessperson doesn't sweet-talk every now and then? It's just that she rarely did it herself.

But then... her thoughts drifted back to last night when Bryce offered to accompany her to the gala, expressing his concern over Ludwik.

Yet, throughout the event, it didn't seem like he paid much attention to that concern. Instead, was he there to rub shoulders with Ronan and other influential figures?

She couldn't shake off the feeling of being used.

"Is this the so-called loving husband you always defend? Seems to me he's pretty good at kissing up," Ludwik's icy voice suddenly appeared from behind, close enough to send shivers down her spine. Whitney turned around sharply-

Meeting his gaze, filled with sarcasm, she felt a sting in her heart and retorted, "What's with the snide remarks? At least I'm living my life. Unlike you, trying to win over people who couldn't care less about you." He was the one who started with the mockery.

"Right, I'm trying to win you over, but you won't even give me a chance."

Unexpectedly, the man didn't seem angered at all. Instead, his intense gaze softened, melting like ice to water, which only confused Whitney further.

Before she could react, Ludwik grabbed her hand and led her to the study's adjacent pantry.

"Ludwik, what are you doing?"

Whitney whispered, trying to shake him off. Her eyes nervously flicked towards Bryce, afraid he would notice.

"Don't worry, his head's filled with impressing Ronan and the likes. He won't notice where you are."

door behind them, trapping her against the pantry wall in a tight

in a low voice,

closer, continuing to

a hot candidate for Vice President next year, rumored to be already

thought Bryce was just networking

the next Vice

and Phineas are tight. And Phineas has more influence than Ronan. By getting

you really think Ronan would bother with Bryce

turmoil, uncertain how to respond, "You're making assumptions. Maybe

before?

used. Didn't you rush to Shane as soon as you arrived? Shane is Ronan's nephew. Bryce likely heard this and became overly attentive. Ronan, thinking you're all close to Shane, let his guard down. Plus, with Bryce's smooth talking, he

suddenly recalling Bryce's words about inviting Shane

believe Shane

way for his company. We're all in the business world, where flattery is sometimes

"Not entirely."

Lippert family. My real reason for being here was knowing you'd be invited. I just wanted to see you.

yet found her cheeks

lightning strike me down." Ludwik

state, he suddenly smiled, "Whitney, thanks for getting Shane to save me. It proves I'm not the

you

asked Shane to save you. I wish

framed, you're still arguing?" Ludwik's voice grew softer, laced with a hint of flirtation, "Is it so hard

suggestive gaze, Whitney protested,

against him, but he was like a wall, immovable and imposing, a reminder of how unfazed