New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 257 New Model?

Claire's frown deepened. "What is it? What's wrong?"

Talia leaned in closer, lowering her voice even more. "One of our models just called in sick, and we're desperate. We need someone to fill in."

Claire raised an eyebrow, still not understanding what Talia was getting at. "Okay, so you need a model. How can I help?"

Talia took another deep breath, looking Claire straight in the eyes. "I want you to replace her."

For a moment, there was silence. Then Claire's eyes widened in shock, and she stared at Talia as if she had grown another head. "Are you crazy?" Claire exclaimed, her voice rising. "I'm not a model, Talia. I'm a CEO. I run a company, remember?"

Adrian, who had been quietly sipping his drink beside Claire, chuckled softly, earning a sharp look from Claire. He shrugged, trying to keep a straight face. "Talia has a point, Claire. The show is starting in a few minutes, and she doesn't have a lot of options. You're already here, and you look fantastic. I'm sure you'll do amazing."

Claire turned her glare from Talia to Adrian, crossing her arms over her chest. "I can't believe you're siding with her," she said, exasperated. "You know I don't do this kind of thing."

Adrian just smiled, giving her a reassuring nod. "Come on, Claire. It'll be fun. Besides, you always say you're up for a challenge. Consider this your challenge for the night."

Claire sighed, feeling the weight of both their stares on her. She could see the pleading look in Talia's eyes, and despite her own reservations, she knew she couldn't let her friend down. "Fine," she said at last, rolling her eyes. "I'll do it. But you both owe me for this." Talia's face broke into a wide grin, and she clapped her hands in excitement. "Yes! Thank you, Claire! You're a lifesaver!" She wasted no time, grabbing Claire's arm and practically dragging her out of her seat. "Come on, we don't have much time! We need to get you backstage."

a flurry of activity. Hairdressers and makeup artists swooped in, their hands

of the makeup artists murmured, expertly applying a bold shade of lipstick to Claire's lips. Claire did her best to remain calm, though her heart was pounding. This wasn't her

time on her watch every few seconds. "Ten minutes," she called

few strands of Claire's

glimpse of herself in the mirror and barely recognized the woman staring back at her. Her hair was styled in soft waves, her makeup flawless, and her outfit-well, she hadn't seen the outfit yet, but she could only

out a stunning emerald green dress,

this, Talia?" she asked, still feeling a bit unsure. "I mean,

away her concerns. "You won't. Just walk straight, look confident, and you'll be

slipped into the dress,

hugging her

was beautiful, elegant, and

her usual style She took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. Talia handed her a pair of heels, and Claire

special appearance. You'll walk last and close the show." Claire's eyes widened. "Special appearance? Are you trying

be amazing. Just think of it as another business presentation. Only, you

help the small smile tugging at her lips. "You better be right about this,"

hall of Adrian's

Guests were seated, cameras were ready, and a soft murmur of anticipation filled the air. The runway, lined with elegant lights, stretched out like a gleaming path, waiting for the models to