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."

just can't stand her, Alex. She's always trying to one-up everyone." Alex listened attentively, though his mind was elsewhere. Despite Lisa's emotional outpouring, his thoughts kept circling back to Claire. It was almost as if he couldn't shake

called out, growing annoyed as she noticed his distracted state. "Are you even listening

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

slightly expressing

vaguely, not wanting to delve

drive, Alex's mind raced with questions about Claire's

never shown much interest in such affairs during their marriage. It was out of character for her to organize such an event, especially given her lack of knowledge about art

himself, more to sort out his thoughts than to seek an

Lisa.

distant demeanor. "Alex, are you sure

Lisa's mind at ease. "Yes, yes, everything's fine. Just thinking about

Alex couldn't help but wonder if it was part of a larger scheme to advance her own agenda. The charity

you for showcasing my mother's last painting tonight," Claire said warmly as she approached Liz, her eyes reflecting genuine

Liz smiled warmly

Claire's gaze shifted to the painting, a beautiful and poignant piece that held sentimental value for her. "I'm so

Claire's arm. "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

the gesture, Liz, but I can't accept it. It's

understandingly, but her

Claire. However, inspiration can come from various 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 thank you for your

a generous offer, but I want to make sure it's the right decision. I don't want to

that the children and I will be very happy if you

farewells, promising to catch

turned to leave, Matthew nudged her shoulder gently. "Today was a success, Claire. You did

"Thank you, Matthew. And thank you for all your help. It wouldn't have been

H