CHAPTER FORTY-ONE - A New Normal

The waiter approached, and they quickly placed their orders. Once he left, Olivia leaned in again. "Okay, let's break this down. Pros of taking the job?" Claire counted off on her fingers. "Amazing career opportunity. Chance to work with cutting-edge tech. Significantly better pay. New city, new experiences." "And cons?" "Leaving New York. Starting over in a new place. And..." Claire hesitated. "The Mason factor." Olivia raised an eyebrow. "Is that really a con, though? I mean, you two had a connection in Paris, right?" Claire sighed. "We did. But things have been... complicated since then. We talk, but it's not the same. And now, with this job offer... I don't know if he's offering it because he thinks I'm the best person for the job, or because..." "Because he wants you closer?" Olivia finished. Claire nodded, feeling a flush creep up her neck. Their food arrived, providing a welcome distraction. As they ate, Olivia watched her friend closely. "You know," she said after a w