CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY-THREE - Stranded on the Island

Mason reached across to take her hand, his heart swelling with love. "You deserve it, Claire. After everything you've been through, you deserve some peace and happiness." The plane took off smoothly, carrying them towards their island destination. As they flew over the vast expanse of ocean, Claire leaned her head on Mason's shoulder, a contented sigh escaping her lips. "Thank you," she murmured. "For everything. For being my rock through all of this." Mason pressed a kiss to the top of her head, his voice thick with emotion. "Always, Claire. I'll always be here for you." As they neared their destination, Mason's excitement grew. He could almost picture the moment - the two of them on a moonlit beach, the sound of waves lapping at the shore as he got down on one knee... Suddenly, the plane gave a violent lurch, snapping Mason out of his reverie. Claire sat up straight, her eyes wide with alarm. "What was that?" Before Mason could respond, the plane shook again, more violently thi