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."

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

annoyed as she noticed his distracted state.

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

eyes narrowed slightly expressing her

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

they continued their drive, Alex's mind raced with questions about Claire's sudden involvement in the charity

during their marriage. It was out of character for her to organize such an event,

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

Lisa.

demeanor. "Alex,

nodded quickly, fabricating a response to put Lisa's mind at ease. "Yes,

and Alex 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.

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

Liz smiled warmly

Claire's gaze shifted to the painting, a beautiful and poignant piece that

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 hesitated, touched by Liz's generosity but conflicted by the thought

but I can't accept it. It's been the source of

nodded 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

to think about it, Liz. It's a generous offer, but I want to make sure it's the

"Of course, take your time. But know that the children and

Claire exchanged farewells, promising to catch

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

of praise. "Thank you, Matthew. And thank you for all your help. It

H