CHAPTER FORTY-THREE - Meeting the Parents

Claire's heart sank. She could hear the pain and frustration in Mason's voice. "Mason, I'm so sorry. That must be incredibly difficult." "It is," Mason admitted. "I've poured my heart and soul into this company. To have my leadership questioned like this... it's exhausting." Claire wished she could reach through the phone and comfort him. "You're brilliant, Mason. Anyone who can't see that is a fool." There was a soft chuckle on the other end of the line. "Thank you, Claire. I needed to hear that." He paused for a moment. "How are things on your end? Have you... have you given any more thought to the offer?" Claire's stomach twisted. How could she tell him about the potential promotion at Dayton? How could she add to his stress? "I'm still thinking it over," she said carefully. "It's a big decision." "Of course," Mason said quickly. "I don't mean to pressure you. I just... I miss you, Claire." The words hung in the air between them, heavy with unspoken emotion. "I miss you too,