CHAPTER FIFTY-FOUR - Regret and Remorse

Thank you, Mason. For everything." Mason reached across the table, taking her hand. "You did all the hard work. I'm just glad I could help." As they enjoyed their meal, the conversation flowed easily, touching on everything from work to their shared love of obscure foreign films. Claire realized how much she had missed this, just being with Mason, no work stress hanging over them. "We should do this more often," she said as they walked out of the restaurant, hand in hand. Mason grinned. "I couldn't agree more. How about we make it a regular thing? Friday night dates?" Claire nodded, feeling a surge of excitement. "It's a date." Over the next few weeks, Claire and Mason fell into a comfortable rhythm. Their Friday night dates became a cherished tradition, a chance to reconnect and unwind after busy weeks. They explored hidden gems in San Francisco, from hole-in-the-wall jazz clubs to quirky art galleries. One Saturday afternoon, they found themselves wandering through Golden Gate