CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY-TWO - The Plane Crash

"Ready?" Mason asked, squeezing her hand as their boarding group was called. Claire looked at him, her heart full of love and gratitude. "Ready," she replied with a smile. As they walked down the jetway, Claire felt as if she were stepping not just onto a plane, but into a new chapter of her life. The future was uncertain, but for once, that uncertainty felt exhilarating rather than frightening. Whatever came next, she knew she had the strength to face it, the support to sustain her, and the courage to forge her own path. The plane took off, soaring into the clear blue sky, carrying Claire and Mason towards new horizons - both literal and figurative. As the familiar skyline of their city faded into the distance, Claire felt a sense of peace settle over her. She was leaving behind the trauma and stress of recent months, but carrying with her the lessons learned, the strength gained, and the love that had seen her through. This sabbatical was more than just a break from work. It wa