Love beyond the mask (Whitney) novel Chapter 1082

In the lobby of the Inko Group headquarters, Bryce watched as Ludwik slinked out of the building, tail between his legs.

It was a sweet moment of victory that filled Bryce with satisfaction. He just needed to keep Parisa on his side, and dealing with Ludwik would be a piece of cake.

Oh, Ludwik, Bryce thought with a sly grin, soon enough you'll be crawling at my feet just like I once did.

His eyes gleamed with a dangerous ambition, like vines spreading unchecked.

Composing himself, Bryce waved politely to a passing shareholder and then moved to a quiet spot by the large windows. With a cold smile, he dialed Parisa's new number.

Ludwik had just had his partnership revoked by Parisa, and he hadn't put up much of a fight. But Bryce knew he needed to sow more discord between Parisa and Ludwik.

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On a private jet heading to Banyan City, Parisa sat upright, her elegant features marked by a slight frown. The closer they got to Banyan City, the more unsettled she felt. Her past was a blur, but maybe her father's grave would trigger some memories.

Just as doubt began to creep in, Erik, her assistant, handed her the ringing phone. "It's your new number, ma'am," he said respectfully. "Only Florence and Mr. Lutz have it."

Parisa glanced at the phone, then at Florence, who gave her a curious look but said nothing.

"Is it Mr. Lutz?" Parisa asked.

"Yes, it is," Erik confirmed, handing over the phone. "Would you like to take the call?"

Parisa nodded, and Erik connected the line.

"Hello, Ms. Tennyson, it's Bryce."

"I know, Mr. Lutz. What can I do for you?"

Bryce's voice turned serious. "Ms. Tennyson, we've got a problem. After your decision to revoke Ludwik's partnership with Inko Group, he showed up at the office this morning causing a ruckus. He's refusing to accept the termination."

"He blocked the shareholders, wouldn't sign the papers. Ms. Tennyson, Ludwik is ruthless and vindictive. You don't know what he's capable of when he's crossed. He could retaliate against Inko Group, and you might be his next target!"

Bryce's voice was full of urgency. "I was worried, so I went to Inko Group myself. He was causing such a scene, nearly got into a fight with the shareholders!"

Listening intently, Parisa's brow furrowed, and her eyes grew thoughtful. Florence watched her, unsure what to make of Parisa's stoic expression.

"Ms. Tennyson, Ludwik is out of control," Bryce continued, trying to fan the flames. "He's already attempted to harm you before, and now this. For your own safety, I think it's time to deal with him once and for all..."

Florence jumped in, sensing Parisa's growing impatience. "Mr. Lutz, my mom's not in the best mood right now, probably because we're heading to Banyan City. Thanks for the heads-up, but if Ludwik's causing trouble, my mom will have a plan, won't you, Mom?"

This Mr. Lutz... you shouldn’t trust him too much!

From what I see, he seems overly interested in the affairs of Inko Group. Maybe he really does despise Ludwik, but I feel he’s always looking to undermine him.

Have you been swayed by him? Do you hold such a deep-seated grudge against Ludwik too?

I’m warning you, from now on, keep your distance from Mr. Lutz. Don’t let yourself be used by him!"

Florence's eyes betrayed a flicker of doubt, though she didn’t dare voice any defense for Bryce. It was clear that Parisa harbored distrust for Bryce, and perhaps that last phone call had only fueled her suspicions.

Parisa still seemed to trust Florence, advising her not to become a pawn in Bryce’s game.

Florence felt a shadow cross her face, wisely choosing to stay silent, her expression a mix of frustration and reluctance. “Mom, maybe you’ve misunderstood Mr. Lutz, but fine, I’ll do as you say…”

“Whether I’ve misunderstood him or not, time will tell. Florence, I don’t want you to be taken advantage of, so don’t get too close to him.”

Parisa’s voice softened as she spoke, and she closed her eyes, her serene demeanor hiding any turmoil that might have been stirring beneath.

Florence, anxious and perplexed, clenched her fists. What exactly had tipped Parisa off about Bryce, causing her to doubt him?