CHAPTER NINETY-SIX - Reflection and Regret

One Saturday afternoon, they decided to have a picnic in Golden Gate Park. As they spread out the blanket under a large oak tree, Claire couldn't help but smile at the simplicity of the moment. "What's that smile for?" Mason asked, unpacking the basket. "Just... this," Claire gestured around them. "It's nice to do normal couple things without the weight of the world on our shoulders." Mason nodded, handing her a sandwich. "I agree. I've realized how much I took these moments for granted before." They ate in comfortable silence for a while, enjoying the warm sun and the gentle breeze. Claire watched a group of children playing frisbee nearby, their laughter carrying across the park. "Mason," she said suddenly, turning to face him. "I think I'm ready." "Ready for what?" he asked, his brow furrowed in confusion. "To fully commit to us again," Claire said, her voice soft but sure. "These past few weeks have shown me that we can work through our issues if we try. And... I love you. I