CHAPTER THIRTY-FOUR - The Office Rivalry

Mason reached across the table, taking her hand in his. "It matters to me too. More than I can say. But Claire, we always knew this was temporary, didn't we? That eventually, we'd have to go back to our real lives." Claire felt tears prickling at the corners of her eyes. "I know. I just... I guess I wasn't prepared for it to happen so soon." They sat in silence for a moment, both lost in thought. Finally, Mason spoke, his voice gentle but firm. "Listen, you don't have to make a decision right now. Take some time to think it over. Consider all the factors – your career goals, your personal life, what you want for your future. And know that whatever you decide, I'm here for you." Claire squeezed his hand, feeling a mix of gratitude and turmoil. "Thank you, Mason. I don't know what I'd do without you." As they left the café and began the walk back to their apartment, Claire's mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. The job offer represented everything she'd been working towards