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."

She vented about her dislike for Claire, expressing her frustrations through tears. "I just can't stand her, Alex. She's always trying to one-up everyone." Alex listened attentively, though his

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

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

expressing her skepticism. "About

Alex replied vaguely, not wanting to delve

Alex's mind raced with questions about Claire's sudden

marriage. It was out of character for her to organize such an event, especially given her lack of knowledge about art

organize a charity event?" Alex muttered to himself, more to sort out his thoughts than to

Lisa.

sighed, sensing Alex's distant demeanor. "Alex, are you sure everything's

quickly, fabricating a response to put Lisa's mind at ease. "Yes, yes, everything's fine. Just

was part of a

my mother's last painting tonight," Claire said warmly as she approached Liz, her eyes

Liz smiled warmly

Claire. Your mother's art deserves to be celebrated. Claire's gaze shifted to the painting, a beautiful and poignant piece that held sentimental value for her. "I'm so grateful to you for honoring her legacy in such a meaningful

shared and appreciated, not kept hidden away Please, take it as

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

understandingly, but her eyes held

will benefit greatly from the funds raised tonight, and this is the least I can do to thank you for your contributions to the club and the charity." Claire mulled over Liz's words, her heart torn between the children's

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

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

and Claire exchanged farewells, promising to

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

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

H