Love beyond the mask ( Whitney )
Chapter 472

Shane stood gracefully outside Whitney's office, his presence filling the space with an air of elegance that was signature to the Nelsons - a family known for their wealth and sophistication. Yet, Whitney couldn't help but notice a sharpness in his eyes, hinting at a hidden depth to his character. His gaze seemed fixed on Sandy, his smile subtle, his words few. Whitney found this normal given their unfamiliarity, but Sandy's cool beauty was undeniably captivating.

"Mr. Nelson, are you by any chance flirting with my assistant?" Whitney teased as she approached.

Sandy's assistant stiffened, eyes darting to Shane.

With an easy turn and a charming smile, Shane responded, "As everyone knows, I've set my sights on you, Whitney. I was hoping for a partnership of a more personal nature. How about it? Do you fancy the idea?"

He presented her with a bouquet of delicate white roses, their scent so potent, Whitney couldn't help but sneeze. "Thanks, but no thanks. Maybe give them to someone else?"

"To whom?" Shane's eyes narrowed playfully before he handed the bouquet to Sandy. "Take care of this, will you?"

"Of course, Mr. Nelson." Sandy obediently took the flowers, distributing them across the office desks.

Shane, with a casual glance toward Whitney, teased, "I've come all this way to see you, and you're not inviting me in?" Whitney saw no reason to invite him in but then thought of something. "Actually, Mr. Nelson, there's a favor I need to ask." "Oh? Let's hear it."

"It's about that golf course land bid. Is the Nelson family competing? I'd like you to deliver my bid to the Lippert Group. And if I win, I'll treat you to a grand dinner!"

Shane's smile deepened, his eyes twinkling. "Afraid of showing your face at the Lippert Group? Let me guess, Ludwik? You've got a bone to pick with him, haven't you? Wanting a piece of Lippert territory means you're bound to be threatened."

His insinuating tone made Whitney uneasy. If he knew about her past with Ludwik, why would he pursue her? The Nelsons could have their pick of any socialite; why insist on her?

Trying to evade his probing, Whitney joked, "So, will you help me or not? If not, you might as well leave."

"Straight to the point, huh?" Shane raised an eyebrow.

Whitney matched his gesture. "Mr. Nelson, you've made your appearance. Don't you have a company to run?"

Shane chuckled. "Ever heard of the Nelson Group?"

"Famous. Well, Mr. Nelson, I have my own battles to fight here. Please, see yourself out." Whitney saw potential in aligning with the Nelson Group's CEO.

As Shane left, Sandy walked in with some documents, tripping slightly. "Careful," Shane caught her by the waist, his gaze darkening slightly.

"Mr. Nelson, I'm so sorry!" Sandy quickly stepped back, apologizing.

Outside, Sienna's shrill voice could be heard, accusing Sandy of throwing herself at Shane. "As if you stand a chance with Mr. Nelson! With your lowly background, you'd need ten lifetimes to match him!"

Sandy defended herself, pointing out Sienna's lack of class. Shane, overhearing, coldly put Sienna in her place, leaving her flustered and embarrassed.

Whitney, intrigued by the drama, wondered about Shane's marital status. Sandy, focused on her work, shrugged off the gossip.

Whitney admired Sandy's dedication, turning their attention back to the task at hand. They discussed their competition, particularly Florence, who seemed too relaxed despite the high stakes. Whitney knew losing wasn't an option for either of them, as it would mean being shut out from the Sheldon Group and thwarting their personal ambitions. The competition was more than just a game; it was a battle for their futures.

Something felt off, and Whitney knew it wasn't without reason. "She's too calm," she thought. "Definitely cooking up something."

Whitney said, "Let's not worry about them for now. Focusing on our project and selecting the right jewels is crucial. With a flawless plan, we can thwart any underhanded tactics."

"You'll do great, Whitney. It's Florence who worries me. She's a master at playing the victim, always ready to feign illness or weakness. And when she starts her waterworks, everyone melts," Sandy hinted with a tone loaded with implication.

Whitney's gaze turned icy as she thought of Ludwik. It was clear Florence hoped to leverage her relationship with him. But Ludwik, known for his professionalism, wouldn't let personal bias cloud his judgment, right? Surely, he wouldn't toss his principles aside just because Florence batted her eyelashes at him?

Diving back into her planning, Whitney tried to shake off her concerns.

As the afternoon sky darkened, Whitney left her office and noticed Ludwik's door remained shut. "He didn't show up at all today? Didn't even join Florence for lunch?"

She then remembered Ludwik mentioning a trip back to Banyan City, possibly to visit Natalie. Glancing at Florence's office, which was already empty, Whitney mused, "With Ludwik gone, she doesn't even bother pretending."

This clearly wasn't a sign of someone putting their all into the competition. Was Florence so sure Ludwik would pull strings for her?

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The next morning, after accompanying Danny for his treatment, Whitney rushed to her job at S-T Group. But as soon as she stepped into the office, Sandy caught her eye with a meaningful look, signaling something was amiss. "What's going on?" Whitney approached, sensing the tension.