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 mind was elsewhere. Despite Lisa's

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

offering Lisa a reassuring smile "Sorry, babe. I was

expressing her skepticism. "About

to

about Claire's sudden involvement

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

event?" Alex muttered to himself, more to sort out

Lisa.

demeanor.

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

couldn't help but wonder if it was part of a larger scheme to advance her own agenda. The charity event continued its lively course as Claire navigated through the crowd, exchanging pleasantries and expressions of gratitude with other guest. Amidst the chatter and laughter,

for showcasing my mother's last painting tonight," Claire

Liz smiled warmly

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

as a token of our friendship and as a reminder of your mother's talent." Claire hesitated,

can't accept it. It's been the source of inspiration for

understandingly, but her eyes

your concern, 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 contributions to the club and the

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

time. But know that the children and I will be

and Claire exchanged farewells, promising

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

Matthew. And thank you for all your help. It wouldn't

H