Love Beyond the Mask by Adelaide Sinclair

Whitney couldn't help but chuckle at the clueless little girl sprawled on the hospital bed. "Your dad's had a bit too much to drink, sweetheart. He's back at the apartment. When I saw Sienna knock you out, I brought you here to make sure you were okay."

Tina shot upright, panic in her voice. "Wait! What about that awful Sienna? Did you kick her out? I bet she was up to something bad with my dad!"

Whitney gently pushed Tina back down, speaking with a loaded look. "Don't worry, I sent her packing. Listen, Tina, your dad is drunk, but guess who's taking care of him? Yup, the 'Mommy' you're always talking about. They're both at the apartment together."

“So, you're spending tonight here at the hospital, okay? Hang out with Sammy and Danny. And let's leave your dad alone tonight, alright?"

"Wh-what?!" Tina's big, sparkly eyes widened in disbelief. She stared at Whitney for a long moment, then slapped her hand over her mouth and squealed, "Are you serious?!"

Whitney could see the excitement bubbling in her eyes and nodded calmly.

Tina launched herself at Whitney, practically tackling her. "Really? My daddy and mommy are together?! This is amazing! That evil Sienna is finally gone! Oh, I hope Daddy tells Mommy about me-she needs to know she has such a cute daughter!"

kept rambling, barely stopping for breath. "And Daddy's drunk, right? I heard that when men get drunk, they do crazy things! Maybe tonight they'll cuddle, and tomorrow I'll have

spun to Sammy, her voice bubbling with excitement. "Sammy!

were kids this grown-up? Where

keep a straight face, clearing her throat. "Tina, who

Tina pointed straight at him, totally selling him

my

to my mommy. That way, I'd finally get a mom!

Whitney's jaw dropped.

Sammy a death

red with frustration, he quickly tried to pass the blame. "Honestly, Mom, it was all Danny's idea! Do I look like someone who'd come up with a

a second. "You two are going to drive me crazy. You just spill everything, don't

"Mom..."