Chapter 281: Mason Had Just Stood Up

Mason had just stood up when his phone vibrated.

He glanced down to see "Clara Whitmore" flashing across the screen.

Grant Holloway and Julian Cross simultaneously reached out to grip his shoulders.

The music in the private room cut off abruptly.

Everyone fell silent with unspoken understanding.

Mason's Adam's apple bobbed as beads of sweat formed on his forehead.

On the other end of the line, Clara stared at her phone screen for a long moment.

Her fingertip hovered over the call button, hesitating.

Helen Whitmore's publishing contract was about to expire.

Without renewal, she needed to find a new editor quickly.

This editor had to specialize in thriller and horror genres.

Preferably with their own promotional resources.

Clara scrolled through her contacts.

Her finger paused over Mason's name.

Her hesitation wasn't about how to ask.

But whether she should make this decision for her mother.

Earlier that morning, her father had said on the phone: "Your mother's been on a creative streak, pulling seven all-nighters in a row. I've been pruning roses in the backyard without making a sound."

Clara bit her lower lip.

Her finger finally pressed down.

"Mason, got a minute?"

He immediately straightened. "For you, Clara? Always!"

"I need a favor."

His expression turned serious. "Name it."

Clara briefly explained the situation.

Mason nodded along, interjecting occasional affirmatives.

Grant narrowed his eyes.

He'd never seen Mason so attentive with anyone.

Even with their childhood friends, Mason always kept things lighthearted.

But now...

Grant's fingers absently tapped against his glass.

Suddenly he thought of Connor Hayes.

That once-closest brother.

Who ended up...

Mason's voice snapped him back.

"Clara, Julian recently invested in a publishing house."

He turned to Julian.

Julian raised an eyebrow.

"Top three in the country. Specializes in literary fiction."

Clara was silent for several seconds.

Mason quickly added, "Want me to make inquiries?"

"Okay."

After hanging up, Julian scoffed.

"Calling her that so sweetly—people might think she's your real sister."