Love Beyond the Mask by Adelaide Sinclair

Whitney tried to keep her cool, forcing a wry smile. "Sandy, it's not what you think."

"We're in a tough spot right now, so I have to go. These reporters-I still need them for something."

"You're both awake now. Shane will explain everything in detail.”

"I just hope one day you'll understand I was reckless, but I only did it to help you."

With that, she turned and strode out, her mind made up.

"No! Don't go! Do you really want the paparazzi to blow this up even more?" Sandy yelled after her. "Whitney, if you do this, I'll never forgive you!"

But Whitney hardened her heart and ignored her protests. She signaled Felix to get the paparazzi out of there.

She shot a final look at Shane, leaving him enough space. "You did this-you need to face her. Make sure you explain everything."

"Yeah. Whitney, thank you."

half-dressed, stood by the bed. Even in his disheveled state, he was all quiet strength and rugged good looks. He sat down, pulling on his shirt, and glanced at Sandy's tear-streaked face, his voice hoarse with regret.

get worked up. It's not

the truth now. The truth about why, all those years ago, we ended up with a

"Okay?"

heart clenched. She felt paralyzed, like she

watery and confused. She'd stayed up all night for this-for

look at Shane's heartbreakingly handsome face. "Fine.

the apartment's living

half-dozen paparazzi onto the hardwood floor,

He fumbled with

already ringing with

a flash, and landed a sharp kick to George's stomach. She snatched his camera, but didn't bother to

you get it done? Sienna's in Shane's bed, right? Wake her up-quietly. The sun's not up yết, and there's something

tone was all acid

neck in Felix's grip, could only stare at Whitney, lips trembling but unable

into the phone. "Hey, George, why don't you tell Grandma how it