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,"

reaction as it

moment of competition and excitement,

lips as he admired the painting. It wasn't just about the artwork itself; it was about the victory, the feeling of accomplishment that came with

why

that you'd place

her, Alex replied calmly, "I changed my mind. I decided I want this painting for

response, her interest fleeting

suit yourself," she commented before settling onto the nearby couch, her

the painting in his penthouse. It was not just a piece of art but a symbol of his victory in the bidding

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?" one of

"Yes, that is me. What

for you from Liz," the other man explained, gesturing to the painting they

she didn't bid any painting last night other than Annalise,

come in," she invited them,

her bid her goodbye

men entered and carefully placed the painting near the couch as instructed by Claire. Once

sense of curiosity and anticipation, Claire removed the wrapping covering the painting. Her expression transformed

her mum's painting that Liz

package is clearly

the unexpected gesture, Claire crouched down to get a closer look. As she admired the details of the painting, her eyes fell upon a small envelope tucked discreetly at

retrieved the letter inside. It was from Liz, expressing her gratitude for

have the painting as a token of their appreciation, assuring her that they didn't

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 the

her parents' grave site. However, his steps faltered as he entered, finding Claire seated on the floor, seemingly lost

his voice filled with concern as he noticed Claire's introspective gaze. Claire turned to him, a hint of melancholy in her eyes.

the floor, studying the painting with genuine interest. "Is this the exact painting Liz showcase last

Claire nodded.

beautiful up-close." he commented, admiring the intricate

soft smile touching her lips. "Yeah, it