Love Beyond the Mask by Adelaide Sinclair

Whitney gently squeezed Sandy's hand and soothed her with a warm voice, "You do what feels right for you. Saying no to Shane and fixing things with your daughter-those aren't mutually exclusive."

"But... what if he keeps me from seeing her?" Sandy whispered, her voice trembling.

Whitney almost laughed at the thought-Shane wouldn't dare. She shook her head, reassuring, "That's not gonna happen. Even Mrs. Nelson has acknowledged you're Tina's mom, so you've got visitation rights, no question. Listen to me, just keep seeing your daughter as usual. As for Shane? If he ever pulls anything, you come straight to me and I'll set him straight. And if all else fails, you call the cops. He might be a big-shot CEO, but I doubt even he would risk his reputation here in Emperor City just to mess with you."

Whitney's words were firm and clear. Sandy squeezed her hand back, eyes shining with gratitude. "Whit, thank you for standing up for me. Back at the Nelsons', I honestly thought you were taking his side."

Whitney rolled her eyes and grinned. "Don't be silly. You're my sister-Shane's just some guy. Of course I'm here for you." She shot her a playful wink.

Up front, Felix nearly missed the brake pedal, glancing at them in the rearview mirror. Was Ms. Valentine really that loyal to Sandy? Judging by her expression, he wasn't so sure.

must be exhausted and stressed out of your mind. Just rest tonight, okay? Don't worry about anything, not even Tina. Shane's not heartless enough to cut you off completely. And

ever going to bring her to live with me, I'll need a better place. I've got to get ready for all of that, Whit. Don't

got out and went inside, then leaned back in her seat, stretching her slender legs. "Felix, let's head

"Sure, Ms. Valentine. Want to check in on Mr. Lippert? He actually called this afternoon, asking about you. He's been keeping tabs on you

when are you going to stop narrating my life? It's getting

grinned. "Not making anything up, ma'am. Mr. Lippert really does miss you.

glanced at the caller ID, her cheeks turning even redder

Felix teased, glancing back. "You should answer. If you don't,

swiped to answer, lifting the phone with a hint of exasperation. "What is

came a deep, unhurried voice from the other