Love beyond the mask (Whitney) novel Chapter 1311

She finally let herself breathe, glancing up to see Nolan standing by the sofa, one hand in his jeans pocket, jaw set in that stubborn way of his.

Nolan was tall and lean, the kind of guy who could turn heads at a college football game. He and Ashton shared a certain resemblance, but while Ashton was built like a linebacker—broad-shouldered and all hard edges—Nolan had that charming, boy-next-door vibe. Dark brows, straight nose, soft features—he looked almost too young to be taken seriously.

As Tiana once put it, “Nolan’s got that baby face—he can be sweet as apple pie or as salty as fries, depends on his mood.”

Whitney thought about that, then snapped back to the moment. Nolan’s eyes were fixed on the hallway; there was a cold, guarded look in them, the kind men get when they’re ready to throw someone out if things go south. She could tell, if Ashton barged in right now, Nolan wouldn’t hesitate to kick him straight out.

Wanting to break the tension, Whitney glanced at the nightstand, then at Nolan, flashing a small, teasing smile. “Come on, Nolan, you’re not gonna throw us both out, are you?”

He finally looked her way, brow furrowed, worry flickering in his eyes as he glanced back at the hospital bed. Valerie looked pale as a ghost, eyelids fluttering open, lashes trembling.

His voice softened. “Valerie’s awake now. Stay with her, talk to her—but please, don’t upset her.”

“What about you?” Tiana shot a look at the door, jerking her head as if to ask if he’d leave.

Nolan just clammed up, jaw tightening. He slipped his hands deeper into his pockets and walked out, quietly closing the door behind him like a true gentleman.

Tiana leaned in and whispered to Whitney, “Is it just me, or has Nolan gotten way more serious lately? He’s turning into Ashton.”

“He’s had to grow up fast after everything that’s happened. He’s gotta protect Valerie now,” Whitney murmured, nudging Tiana to hush.

The two of them moved closer to the bed.

Shadows from the parking lot lights stretched across the window, dimming the room. Valerie blinked, slowly turning her head toward Whitney as if she sensed someone nearby.

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