New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 33

Chapter 33 A successful night

Anna gently tugged on Claire's arm, leading her away from the crowd with a slight frown on her face.

"Claire, can I be honest with you?" Anna's voice was soft but serious.

Claire glanced at her friend, curious about what was on her mind. "Of course, Anna What's on your mind?"

"I don't like Lisa," Anna admitted, her expression turning sour. "She just seems so fake, always putting on a show. "

Claire chuckled lightly, a hint of surprise in her eyes. "I didn't realize you noticed that, Anna.

Anna raised an eyebrow. "You didn't think I would?"

wry smile on her lips. "I suppose I underestimated your observational skills, Anna. I guess being an actress

Claire shook her head, a wr has its own perks."

Curiosity glinted in Anna's eyes as she probed further. "What's the deal with you two, anyway?"

Claire let out a sigh, her expression growing serious. "It's a long story, Anna. But let's just say she's not exactly genuine. Always seeking attention and playing up to people's expectations and also a backstabbing friend. " Anna was taken aback by the revelation. "Oh, you are friend?"

"I wouldn't say friend per se, but we were in a way.

Anna nodded understandingly. "I get it. Well, whenever you're ready to share more, I'm all ears."

Claire smiled gratefully at her friend. "Thank you, Anna. One day, I'll fill you in on all the details."

through tears. "I just can't stand her, Alex. She's always trying to one-up everyone." Alex listened attentively, though his

annoyed as she noticed his distracted state. "Are you even

to attention, offering Lisa a reassuring smile "Sorry, babe. I

expressing

Alex replied vaguely, not wanting to delve into the complexities of his thoughts

their drive, Alex's mind raced with questions about

It was out of character for her

more to

Lisa.

distant demeanor. "Alex, are you

put Lisa's mind at

it was part of a larger scheme to advance her own agenda. The charity event continued its lively course as

you for showcasing my mother's last painting tonight," Claire said warmly as she approached

Liz smiled warmly

my pleasure, Claire. Your mother's art deserves to be celebrated. Claire's gaze shifted to the painting, a beautiful and

"Claire, such paintings are meant to be shared and appreciated, not kept hidden away Please, take it as a token of our friendship and as a reminder of your mother's talent." Claire hesitated, touched by Liz's generosity but conflicted by

it. It's been the source of inspiration

nodded understandingly, but her eyes held a

sources, not just a finished painting. The children will benefit greatly from the funds raised tonight, and this is the least I can do to

want to make sure it's the right decision. I don't want to take something that meant a lot to

course, take your time. But know that the children and I will be very happy if

farewells, promising

nudged her shoulder gently. "Today was a success, Claire. You

at Matthew's words of praise. "Thank you, Matthew. And thank you

H