Love Beyond the Mask by Adelaide Sinclair

"Are you saying it's a good thing if she just says yes and marries you right away, even if it means giving up what she really wants?"

At the critical moment, Whitney stood firmly by her sister.

Shane's jaw tightened, tension radiating off him.

Whitney slipped her arm through Sandy's, raising an eyebrow to comfort her. "If Tina says she needs some space, give her space. Kids figure things out in their own time. Your love for her doesn't change just because you're not marrying Shane right this second, right?"

"Of course not," Sandy said, clutching her chest.

"Come on, let's go. We can visit again later." Whitney steered her toward the door.

Sandy glanced at Shane, whose face had darkened.

The whole thing ended in a mess. Her refusal had clearly pissed him off.

Sandy dropped her gaze and followed Whitney out.

"Sandy!" Shane called after her, wishing he could drag her back—or at least chew Whitney out for being such a lousy wingman.

But Whitney just shot him a look, full of meaning, and led Sandy right out of the Nelson estate.

The woman he wanted wouldn't accept him. She only cared about her daughter. She was stubborn as hell-what was he supposed

Ding-

Suddenly, his phone buzzed.

at Facebook, frowning as the

bad side or I won't

your face. Sandy's not as meek as she seems-she doesn't respond to being pushed around. Trying to use your status to strong-arm her? She'll

scowl deepened. Whitney saw right through his macho

can't rush a soufflé, Shane. Seriously, why can't you see

right? Sandy was heartbroken,

actually a good

your parents are stressing

As long as your daughter's unhappy, your mom's ironclad stance

right in front

golden when someone else treats him like yesterday's

Shane: ...

get to the point in all this

be muttering that if Sandy doesn't

In the

charm, & little romance-this is your wheelhouse,

sweet but clueless. Give it a few months,