CHAPTER THIRTY - A Romantic Gesture

As Claire prepared for her call, she couldn't shake the feeling that something significant had shifted between them. The attraction was undeniable, but there was also a deepening understanding, a connection that went beyond the physical. For the rest of the week, Claire and Mason settled into a new rhythm. Their interactions were charged with an undercurrent of awareness, but neither made a move to address it directly. They worked side by side, shared meals, and continued to explore Paris together, all while dancing around the growing tension between them. One evening, as they walked along the Seine after a late dinner, Claire found herself stealing glances at Mason. The city lights reflected off the water, casting a warm glow on his features. She thought about how easy it would be to reach out, to take his hand in hers. But she held back, reminding herself of the complications. In just a few days, she would be returning to New York, to her life and career there. Mason had his own e