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."

a moment of silence as everyone processed the plan. Finally, Alex spoke again, his voice softer. "And what about the other issues if they ask." Claire raised her

married or how does our family know each other. But

be possible that the media will

What's important is that when they ask us, we both have to have the same

chimed in. "She is right, sir.

just tell me what I

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

looked up. "That sounds good. It keeps things vague enough to

stay consistent with our story." Alex's secretary spoke again. "We should also prepare a written

agreed. "It will help

that. We'll have a draft ready by the end

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

to Alex. "Thank you, Alex. For agreeing

sure it works, Claire. Harris stock market is still falling. We have to go with

stock market. I will think about the perfect date to hold

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

He glanced at the caller ID but ignored

should answer that,"

head. "I can answer

her eyes and gently pushed him away.

sighed, rolling his eyes. "Fine," he said, stepping

determined to manage on her own. As she

Alex offered, concern in

"No, I can manage,

could say more, Adrian appeared in the

smile, he

"Hey, Claire," he said warmly,

Claire responded, a smile spreading across her

getting to your

was just heading there," Claire