"We can only be truly independent when we're able to stand on our own," Sasha said. "If we keep depending on others, they'll grow tired of it eventually."noveldrama

Carlisle seemed genuinely relieved by that. "Shane has really matured. Thank you."

Sasha couldn't help but wonder if he'd still be thanking her when Shane brought Yvonne home. She kept the thought to herself and laughed it off, saying, "He's the smart one."

"I have a feeling that Shane will turn to you again if anything comes up. I hope you'll keep looking out for him," Carlisle said.

"Don't worry; I will," Sasha replied without hesitation.

She had every intention of using Shane to get back at Yvonne. There was no way she wouldn't keep tabs on how things were going between them. And if Shane didn't come to her first, she'd make sure to reach out to him.

Carlisle sighed. "You've got a kind heart. If you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask."

Sasha felt a bit uncomfortable. "Yeah, thanks."

The truth was, she would never be bold enough to actually ask Carlisle for anything. After hanging up, she wiped her forehead, realizing she'd broken out in a cold sweat.

She took a deep breath. Thank goodness she was quick thinking. Carlisle would probably waste no time to make her pay for it if he ever found out what she was really up to.

Sasha lay down on the couch, trying to shake off the tension. Her phone rang, and she automatically thought it was Carlisle calling back. She had already started mentally preparing an apology. But when she looked at the screen, she saw that it was Shane instead.

She answered casually, "What's up? Everything okay?"

Shane was staying in the guest bedroom. After all, Yvonne had paid for the rental. He was already thankful she'd given him a room, even if it was barely bigger than the bathroom back home. "Why are you still on the phone in the middle of the night?" he asked.

Sasha wouldn't have remembered her earlier conversation with Carlisle if he hadn't said anything. But now that he mentioned it, it all came rushing back. She figured it was better to give Shane a heads-up, just ce Carlisle brought it up and

in

Shane let something slip

"Your dad's been worrying about you," Sasha said. "He wanted to know what we talked about when we met earlier. I didn't mention Yvonne."

Shane was puzzled. "Why not?"

"It's pretty obvious. Don't you think so?" Sasha replied matter-of-factly. "Just think it through. If I told your dad you and Yvonne were a thing, do you think he'd be okay with it? Don't rush to answer-consider where you come from and where she's from."

Shane reflected on it, realizing that even though the Winslows were facing financial trouble, they were still miles ahead of the Frosts in terms of wealth. Even if they were technically bankrupt, they still had some assets.

The Frosts, in comparison, were just an average family, far from the stature of the Winslows. Carlisle would never approve of Shane being with Yvonne.

Once it hit him, Shane quickly said, "Thanks for covering for me."

"No problem," Sasha replied, surprised at how easy it was to pull the wool over someone as trusting as Shane told your dad I've been asking you to look for a job and showing you how to live comfortably, even without money. So be careful what you say when you talk to him."

Shane nodded eagerly. "Got it."

Finally, Sasha could feel her heart returning to a calmer pace.