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 mind was elsewhere. Despite Lisa's emotional outpouring, his thoughts kept circling back to Claire. It was almost as if he couldn't shake the

she noticed his distracted

Lisa a reassuring

eyes narrowed slightly expressing

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

mind raced with questions about Claire's sudden involvement in the charity event. He

out of character for her to organize such an event, especially given her lack

event?" Alex muttered to himself, more to sort out his thoughts than to seek an

Lisa.

sighed, sensing Alex's distant demeanor. "Alex,

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

unexpected, and Alex couldn't help but wonder if it was part of a larger scheme to advance her

tonight," Claire said warmly as she approached Liz, her eyes reflecting

Liz smiled warmly

sincerity. "It's my pleasure, 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

hand on 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

it. It's been the source of inspiration

understandingly, but her eyes held a determined

least I can do to thank you for your contributions to the club and the charity."

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

But know that the children and I will be very happy if you decide

Claire exchanged farewells, promising to catch

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

words of praise. "Thank you, Matthew. And thank you for

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