CHAPTER TWENTY-TWO - A Shift in Dynamics

She hailed a taxi, her mind already racing ahead to the evening. As the car weaved through the bustling streets of Paris, Claire found herself reflecting on the whirlwind of the past few days. What had started as a frustrating double-booking had somehow turned into... what exactly? She wasn't quite sure, but the thought of seeing Mason again sent a flutter through her stomach. Back at the apartment, Mason was pacing, his own presentation still fresh in his mind. The tech conference had been a resounding success, with journalists and industry leaders alike praising his innovative ideas. Yet, as he glanced at his phone for the hundredth time, he realized he was more anxious about Claire's response than any media coverage. The sound of keys in the door made him freeze. Claire walked in, her face glowing with success. "There she is, the financial wizard herself!" Mason exclaimed, unable to contain his excitement. Claire laughed, dropping her bag on the couch. "I think that title belong