New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 34

Chapter 34 Unexpected package

The next day, as the clock struck noon, a knock echoed through Alex's penthouse. Annalise's painting, the one he had bid on during the charity event, had arrived. Two burly men maneuvered the large artwork through the doorway, their careful steps ensuring no harm befell the valuable piece.

Lisa, descending the stairs elegantly, arched an eyebrow as she took in the scene. The arrival of such a grand painting was an unusual occurrence in their home "What is all this?" she inquired; her curiosity piqued.

Alex, standing nearby with a sense of anticipation, turned to face Lisa. "It's the painting I bid on last night at the charity event. Annalise painting, remember?" he explained, with a hint of excitement in his voice

Lisa nodded, not particularly invested in the world of art. "Ah, that painting. Looks nice," she remarked before continuing on her way to the kitchen, her attention shifting to other matters.

Meanwhile, Alex directed the two men to carefully hang the painting in the designated spot he had prepared. With practiced hands, they secured it in place, ensuring it was perfectly aligned and showcased in all its glory. Thank you, gentlemen," Alex said appreciatively as the men completed their task and prepared to depart.

Once alone, Alex approached the covered painting, his anticipation growing. With a swift motion, he pulled down the cover, revealing the captivating artwork beneath. The vibrant colors and intricate details of Annalise's creation came to life, filling the room with a sense of artistic brilliance.

"It is even more stunning up close," Alex mused to himself, his gaze lingering on the painting's captivating beauty.

Alex couldn't help but feel a surge of satisfaction as he gazed at the painting. The memory of the intense bidding war between himself and Claire flashed through his mind.

*£50,000."

"£75,000,"

"£80,000."

"£100,000.

"Going once,

eding twice sold to bidder number 78 for £100,000,"

as it can be a

and excitement, each bid fueling his

the feeling of accomplishment that

why

you mentioned last night that you'd place it in one of your hotels," she remarked, her tone casual yet

turning to face her, Alex replied calmly, "I changed my mind. I decided I want this painting

shrugged in response, her interest fleeting

the nearby couch, her attention

to himself, content with his decision to keep the painting in his penthouse. It was not just a piece of art but a symbol of his victory in the bidding

soft hum, of her phone call was interrupted by a sudden knock at the door. Setting aside her conversation, she rose to answer it. Two men stood outside, holding a large, carefully wrapped painting. "Are you Claire Peterson?"

nodded, curiosity piqued. "Yes, that

from Liz," the other man explained, gesturing to

since she didn't bid any painting last night other than Annalise, but she lost the bid to

in," she invited them, opening the

her bid her goodbye

as instructed by Claire. Once they

painting. Her

mum's painting

is clearly unexpected to

by the unexpected gesture, Claire crouched down to get a closer look. As she admired the details of the painting, her eyes fell upon

it and retrieved the letter inside. It was from Liz, expressing her gratitude for Claire's help and mentioning how happy the children were Claire's heart warmed at the

that the children wanted Claire to have the painting as a token of their appreciation, assuring her that they

Claire's features as she read the heartfelt letter. She felt touched by the thoughtfulness of Liz and the children. Making a mental note to give Liz a heartfelt phone call later, Claire sat down on the floor and gazed at

grave site. However, his steps faltered as

voice filled with concern as he noticed Claire's introspective gaze. Claire turned to him, a hint of melancholy in her eyes. "Oh, hey, Matt Liz sent

joined her on the floor, studying the painting with genuine interest.

Claire nodded.

it is more beautiful up-close." he commented,

soft smile touching her