New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 32

Chapter 32 They're friends

As Liz pulled away the cover, revealing the painting beneath, a collective gasp of admiration swept through the room.

The artwork was indeed breathtaking, capturing the essence of beauty and emotion in its strokes and colors. Applause filled the air. mingled with whispers of praise for Mary's talent. Among the guests, Claire couldn't help but feel a surge of pride and joy. She had seen this very painting just two days ago at the art club

when Liz gave her a tour.

Witnessing the guests' genuine appreciation and the murmur of compliments brought a soft smile to Claire's lips.

People around her complimented Mary's painting. She is grateful that Liz decided to showcase her mum's beautiful artwork.

Deep down, Claire can't help but feel a little sad. She wish her mum's with her to witness this moment. She knows her mum would have love it especially heating all the compliments.

Her eyes glistened with unshed tears of happiness, but she quickly blinked them away, not wanting to draw attention to her emotions.

Matthew, who had been observing Claire's reaction, noticed her teary eyes. He place aa reassuring hand on her shoulder. With a warm smile, he whispered, "Your mother's painting is very beautiful. I know she is proud of you, Claire" Claire nodded, grateful for Matthew's understanding gesture. "Thanks, Matt. Her painting is beautiful indeed." she replied softly.

Claire joined in the applause, genuinely admiring the painting, and feeling a sense of pride for her mum.

Once the auction concluded and guests began to mingle, Alex approached Liz to discuss the payment for the auctioned painting. Liz expressed her gratitude to Alex for his generous bid, acknowledging his appreciation for art. "Thank you for supporting our art club." Liz said with a warm smile as she shook hands with Alex, finalizing the deal.

Alex nodded in appreciation. "I have a deep appreciation for art,"

With a firm handshake, the deal was settled to both parties satisfaction. Alex excused himself and made his way to the bustling hall, intending to meet with Lisa, however a certain someone caught his attention. The woman in a red dress stood facing a painting by Mary Peterson.

Alex's gaze lingered on her back. He hesitated, unsure if he should approach her, but curiosity nagged at him, prompting him to take a step closer.

"The painting is captivating, isn't it?"

The woman turned slightly at his words; Alex's breath caught in his throat.

Turns out, Alex eyes didn't play a trick on him. The woman he saw earlier was indeed Claire, but he lost sight of her.

"Claire?" Alex's voice held a mix of surprise and realization. "What are you doing here?"

Claire maintained a composed facade, though inwardly, she was taken aback by the unexpected encounter. "I could ask you the same thing." she replied evenly, her eyes assessing Alex with a hint of curiosity. "Are you following me again? I can't believe this."

following you? You got to be

underlying with

was here for the auction not you." Alex said

on Claire as his voice remind

man who bid on Annalise painting?" Claire

you were the one bidding against me for her painting." He stated, a note of

"I can't believe

all, you did not let me

was a familiar dance of hatred that seemed to replay

timen

they crossed paths.

Claire's

heated argument with Alex, but then she caught hersell.

mother's memory, and she

closed her eyes briefly before opening them

want. I don't care," she stated flatly, her voice devoid of the usual edge it carried

she turned and walked away, leaving him with a mix of frustration and bewilderment. Meanwhile, Claire approached Anna

it's so wonderful to see you here," Claire said genuinely, extending

returned the smile, her eyes sparkling with appreciation. "Claire,

exchanged a hug, and Claire expressed her gratitude for Anna's presence at the charity event. Anna waved off the thanks, acknowledging Claire's role

1 just do what

they spoke leisurely, Lisa approached them eagerly, calling out

goodness, I'm such a big

so much.

standing with Anna. Her initial excitement dimmed slightly, replaced by

who you associate with. Some people can tarnish

words laced with thinly veiled

attempt to stir the pot. She remained composed, curious to hear what else

say.

"Oh, really?

you should surround yourself with educated and kind

couldn't help but

her frowning as she felt

"What's so funny?"