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.

anything, not even Tina. Shane's not heartless enough to cut you off completely. And whatever you do, do not answer any more calls from the Sheldon family. Just focus on sleeping. Tomorrow... you think you'll be able to go to

determined but naive light in her eyes. "I'll be fine! I have to work hard anyway-I want to buy Tina lots of things, and if I'm ever going to bring her to live with me, I'll need a better place. I've

nothing more. She watched as Sandy got out and went inside, then leaned back in her seat, stretching her slender legs. "Felix, let's

on Mr. Lippert? He actually called this afternoon, asking about you. He's been keeping

interrupted, cheeks flushing. "Felix, when are you going to

Mr. Lippert really does miss you. He

Whitney's phone rang. She glanced at the caller ID, her cheeks turning even redder as she muttered, "So

Mr. Lippert?" Felix teased, glancing back. "You should answer. If you

then finally swiped to answer, lifting the phone with a hint of exasperation. "What is it? Why do you

haven't called you yet today," came a deep, unhurried voice