New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 176 Downfall

Claire fell to the ground as the paparazzi pushed forward, their cameras flashing incessantly. She winced in pain from the impact.

Adrian, who was beside her, shouted firmly at them, "Back off! Give her some space!"

Two security guards from the restaurant quickly intervened, helping to create a barrier between Claire, Adrian, and the aggressive photographers. They managed to push the paparazzi back, giving Adrian the chance to kneel beside Claire. "Claire, are you okay?" Adrian asked, concern etched on his face.

Claire nodded. "I'm fine. Let's just get out of here."

Claire tried to stand but stumbled, clearly in pain. Adrian didn't waste any time. He picked her up bridal style and carried her to her car. The driver, sensing the urgency, swiftly opened the door for them. Once they were both inside, the driver quickly drove away from the chaotic scene.

Adrian looked at Claire, his worry deepening. "Are you hurt?"

Claire shook her head, trying to downplay the situation. "I'm fine, Adrian. Just a little shaken."

But when Adrian gently touched her foot, Claire winced in pain, unable to hide it.

"Claire, you sprained your ankle," Adrian said, his tone serious. "You need to go to the hospital and get it checked out."

Claire shook her head again, more firmly this time. "No, I don't want to go to the hospital. I'm fine. I just need to rest, put some ice on it, and it'll be back to normal by tomorrow."

Adrian frowned, clearly not convinced. "Claire, you can't just ignore this. What if it's more serious than you think? You need proper medical attention."

Claire met his gaze with a determined look. "Adrian, I know my body. It's just a sprain. Hospitals are a hassle, and I really don't want to deal with it right now."

Adrian sighed, clearly frustrated but trying to stay calm. "Claire, I'm worried about you. What if it's more serious than it looks? We should at least get it checked out."

Claire shook her head again. "I've had sprains before, Adrian. I know how to handle it. Please, just trust me on this."

"You need to go to the hospital and get it treated. It can get worse if you don't."

as she replied,

He turned to the driver

interjected, "No, just head

Adrian repeated, "Hospital, now."

take me back to my

glanced nervously between

to Claire, his expression serious. "If you don't go to the hospital,

her arms over her chest. "You

expression softened into a cheeky smile. "Oh, I

sighed and leaned her head back against the seat. "Fine," she

to have a clear direction, started heading towards the

know, Adrian, I didn't know you

Claire looked out

and it also remind her of the day when she woke up at the

rolled her eyes. "Of

sat comfortably

while watching TV Suddenly, a gossip news segment

het

It showed a video of Claire and Adrian at a restaurant. As

with delight. "If I were Claire, I'd never show my face in public

tea, feeling a wave

few days, Claire had been the target of various rumors and scandals, and though none of them originated from Gretta, she was pleased to see someone else disliked

much as she did.

Socialite? Gag me." Gretta snorted as she watched the

is a part of London High Socialite. I'm sure she paid

a mischievous grin,

the video of Claire

other end. "No,

to see it!" Gretta urged, a gleeful tone in her voice. "Check your social media right