Love Beyond the Mask novel Chapter 92

Whitney was a knockout—a real head-turner—which made her a magnet for unwanted attention in the business world, and Ludwik was acutely aware of it.

He nodded satisfactorily. "Let's steer those two clients her way; give her a little boost."

"Sure thing." Elaine flashed a grin.

The man leaned back, his well-tailored suit and tie highlighting his muscular frame, his chiseled face irresistibly handsome. His deep eyes seemed to drown anyone who gazed too long.

Despite seeing him daily, Elaine felt her heart flutter and warmth spread to her ears hidden beneath her hair.

As she was momentarily lost in thought, Ludwik's piercing gaze unsettled her, asserting a silent pressure.

Without betraying his thoughts, Ludwik probed, “Elaine, you’ve been putting in quite the effort for Whitney’s sake!”

Elaine smiled softly, then paused, catching a glimpse of the sharpness in his eyes, realizing he might be testing her.

Her hand stiffened beneath her sleeve, but she quickly rebounded with a coy smile, “Bro, when it comes to matters concerning you or Whitney, I naturally take them to heart.”

Ludwik furrowed his brow, recalling Whitney's lukewarm attitude towards Elaine the night before.

Elaine had no reason to chase after someone who gave her the cold shoulder.

Noticing his frown, Elaine's eyes softened. “Bro, don’t you see? I just want to be good to you. Whitney and you are quite the match. You can’t force feelings, and you two have genuine attraction. I’ve said it before. I’ve let go. I see you as a brother now, and still, I want to help you from the bottom of my heart. Seeing you and Whitney happy makes me happy, and when you argue, and you're upset, it hurts me too.”

She sighed lightly, the picture of innocence and gentleness, smiling with eyes that curved. “You've known me for years. You should know I’m steadfast, protecting someone no matter the capacity. Your happiness is so important to me. Possessing someone? That’s not so important. Do you still doubt me? Maybe my fondness for Whitney is just an extension of my fondness for you.”

Ludwik saw the unmistakable sincerity in her eyes and the touch of melancholy in her brows, which he did not miss.

Over the years, she had greatly helped the Imperial Gem Corporation; whenever Kaden applied pressure, she always stood by his side, playing her part in the charade.

Their relationship was more entangled with family interests than personal affection. Ludwik had never been fond of her, previously cold and indifferent, believing her kindness was just a means to please him.

But now, even with Whitney in the picture, Elaine remained kind. Perhaps, as she said, she expected nothing in return.

His icy demeanor thawed slightly, touched by her devotion. All he could offer in return to such a girl was cold comfort. “You see me as a brother. I’ll give you a raise and help you find a suitable husband.”

A chill washed over Elaine—this was not the first time. His heart was as cold as stone, and yet why did it warm for Whitney? Her fingers clenched tightly, knowing he was again using money to brush her off. With a forced soft smile, she retorted, “Deal. But I’d need someone even more mature and perfect than you.”

Ludwik's pen paused, and he felt reassured. His doubts about Elaine were unfounded; they stemmed from his insecurities concerning Whitney.

“You may go,” he said, an infrequent smile gracing his face.

Elaine knew her strategic retreat had alleviated his suspicions. She endured the humiliation all to get back at Whitney.

Elaine’s eyes gleamed with cold determination. Next, she had a special plan in store for Whitney, and she was confident Whitney would take the bait.

Back in her office, Elaine dialed Whitney’s number with a smile.

At that moment, Whitney was in a meeting at the procurement department of Skye Gem. The company’s gemstone supply was inconsistent, and she needed to find a reliable vendor.

Elaine’s call came at just the right time. “Whitney, do you have a minute? I’ve got a surprise for you.”