New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 179 Preparing the conference

Claire had scheduled a meeting with Alex at Metacortex to discuss the upcoming press conference. She had already gone over the details with Matthew, who had helped her refine their strategy. Now, it was time to finalize everything with Alex. Claire arrived with her secretary, Sandra, and Matthew by her side. Alex was already there, accompanied by his own secretary.

The atmosphere in the room was tense as they all settled into their seats. Alex's face was serious as he looked at Claire, ready to dive into the discussion.

"What exactly do you want to clarify at the press conference?" Alex asked, his tone stern.

Claire took a deep breath, matching his seriousness. "First, we need to address the issue about our marriage."

Alex's expression didn't change. "And how do you plan to address it?"

"I'm going to make up a story," Claire said firmly. "But it has to be believable."

Alex's ears perked up at the mention of making up a story. He leaned forward slightly. "What kind of story do you have in mind?"

Claire glanced at Matthew for support before answering. "I want to say that the reason we got married was because it was a will from your grandfather."

Alex's brows shot up. "Are you using my grandfather for your benefit?"

Claire frowned, her gaze steady and unwavering. "I'm not using your grandfather, Alex. I'm just stating the truth." She gave him a look, one that conveyed more than words could. Alex knew that look well, and he looked away, feeling a mix of frustration and resignation. Matthew chimed in, trying to ease the tension. "It's a reasonable explanation, Alex. People will understand a family obligation like that."

Sandra nodded in agreement. "And it will help divert attention from any other rumors that might be swirling around."

Alex sighed, rubbing his temples. "Fine. But what exactly are you going to say?"

Claire straightened up. "I'll say that your grandfather left a will, and his dying wish was for us to get married. It was unexpected, but we honored it out of respect for him and family tradition." Alex still looked skeptical. "And you think people will believe that?"

"It's not just about them believing it," Claire replied. "It's about giving them a story that satisfies their curiosity and keeps them from digging deeper."

Alex leaned back in his chair, thinking it over. "Alright. But if this backfires, it's on you."

Claire nodded. "I understand. But I believe this is the best way to handle it."

his voice softer. "And what about the other issues if they

does our family know each other. But it means they will talk about your family

of that. It might be possible that the media

important is that when they ask us, we

sir. To

what I need

the line and story that he will have to say at the press conference. Alex listened intently while also giving his opinion here and there. He was glad that Claire accepted his opinion rather

had been taking notes, looked up. "That sounds good. It keeps things vague enough to not raise

consistent with our story." Alex's

idea," Matthew agreed. "It will help control

I can work on that. We'll have a draft

stood up, signaling the end of the meeting. "Alright. Let's make sure everything is in place. This has to go

as well, extending her hand to Alex. "Thank you,

her hand, his grip firm. "Just make sure it works, Claire. Harris stock market is

will think about the perfect

statement. Matthew helped Claire out of her seat since her ankle was still hurting. "Be careful, Claire," Matthew said

He glanced at the caller ID but

you should answer that," Claire

shook his head. "I

and gently pushed him

stepping out of

manage on her own. As she reached the entrance, Alex appeared beside

you, Claire," Alex offered, concern

shook her head. "No,

more, Adrian appeared in the meeting room.

smile, he

Claire," he said warmly, then nodded at

a

need help getting to

I was just heading