CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND ELEVEN - The Estranged Father

"Please, call me Victor." He shook her hand, his grip firm but not overpowering. "I apologize for dropping in unannounced. I... I've been doing a lot of thinking lately. About the mistakes I've made. The people I've hurt." His eyes flickered to Mason. "I was hoping we could talk. Maybe... maybe start to mend some fences." Mason's posture remained rigid, his arms crossed over his chest. "Why now? After all these years?" Victor's shoulders sagged slightly. "I've had a lot of time to reflect. To realize what truly matters in life. I know I don't deserve your forgiveness, Mason. But I'm hoping you'll give me a chance to try and earn it." Claire watched the two men, the tension between them palpable. She gently touched Mason's arm. "Why don't we all sit down? I can make some coffee." Mason's eyes met hers, a silent conversation passing between them. Finally, he nodded, stepping aside to let his father enter. As Claire busied herself in the kitchen, she could hear the muffled voices of