CHAPTER TWO HUNDRED AND TWELVE - THE WATCHER IN THE DARK

She blinked, realizing she'd missed part of the conversation. "I... whatever you think is best. I trust you both." Mason knelt in front of her, taking her free hand in his. "We're in this together, okay? We'll figure it out." Claire nodded, forcing a small smile. "I know. I'm just... scared." "It's okay to be scared," Jackson said, his gruff voice softening. "But don't let fear paralyze you. Stay alert, trust your instincts, and let us handle the rest." As Jackson left to begin implementing his security measures, Claire and Mason retreated to their bedroom. Henry stirred in Claire's arms as she laid him in his crib, his tiny fingers curling around her thumb. "I won't let anything happen to either of you," Mason whispered, wrapping his arms around Claire from behind as they watched their son sleep. Claire leaned back against him, drawing comfort from his solid presence. "I know. I just wish I knew why this was happening. Why us?" Mason sighed, resting his chin on top of her head.