CHAPTER FORTY-NINE - Late Night Confessions

Claire felt a surge of irritation. "I told you, it's handled. I don't need you checking up on me every five minutes, Mason." "Checking up on you?" Mason's tone sharpened. "I was worried sick! You disappeared without a word for two days!" "I'm a grown woman, Mason. I can take care of myself," Claire snapped. "That's not the point, Claire! We're supposed to be in this together. Or have you forgotten that in your quest to prove yourself at work?" The words hit Claire like a slap. "That's not fair," she said, her voice trembling. "Isn't it?" Mason's voice was cold now. "When was the last time we had a real conversation? When was the last time you made time for us?" Claire felt tears welling up in her eyes. "I'm trying, Mason. I'm trying to balance everything. Why can't you understand that?" "Because I shouldn't have to fight for scraps of your attention, Claire," Mason replied, his voice softening slightly. "I care about you. I want to be there for you. But I can't do that if you ke