New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 258 Stick Being a CEO

"She's stunning," another voice agreed. "I didn't know she could model!"

clung to her curves-flowed around her like liquid silver, catching the light with every step.

Claire pretended not to hear, keeping her eyes focused straight ahead. She moved with as much grace as she could muster, trying to channel the calm elegance of the models who'd walked before her. The dress Talia had chosen for her a sleek, shimmering gown that As she reached the end of the runway, Claire turned gracefully, her movements precise and measured. She could feel the eyes of the audience on her, could hear the whispers, and see the cameras flashing wildly. It was surreal, almost like being in a dream. She made her way back up the runway, finally disappearing behind the curtains with a sigh of relief.

"See?" Talia was waiting for her, grinning from ear to ear. "What did I tell you? You were perfect!"

Claire let out a shaky laugh, her nerves finally beginning to settle. "I can't believe I just did that. I thought I was going to trip over my own feet!"

"You were flawless," Talia insisted, giving her a quick hug. "Thank you, Claire. You have no idea how much this means to me."

"Anything for you, Talia," Claire said, smiling. She meant it, too. Talia had been there for her through thick and thin, and Claire would do anything to support her best friend's dreams.

The models began to gather backstage, preparing for the final walk. Claire took her place among them, feeling a bit more at ease now that the hardest part was over. Together, they made their way back onto the runway, forming a line in the center of the stage as the lights dimmed.

The spotlight shifted, illuminating Talia as she stepped onto the stage. The audience erupted into applause, cheering and clapping as Talia made her way to the center, her cheeks flushed with pride and happiness. Claire clapped along, feeling a swell of pride for her friend. This was Talia's moment, and she deserved every bit of praise.

Talia scanned the crowd, her eyes shining as she waved. Then she spotted Claire and, without a second thought, grabbed her hand, pulling her into the spotlight.

"Come on, you!" Talia laughed, her eyes twinkling. "Take a bow with me."

Claire blinked, surprised, but she didn't resist. Together, they faced the audience, bowing as the applause grew even louder. Claire felt a wave of warmth spread through her-it felt good, being a part of something like this, seeing her best friend so happy.

straightened up, Claire was surprised to see Adrian making his way toward them, a bouquet in his hand. He reached Claire, a warm smile

he said, his voice soft.

you, Adrian," she said,

"You were amazing, Claire. I couldn't have

crazy, flashes going off like fireworks

clapping her hands as

fashion show officially came to an end. Claire and Talia stepped back, letting the models have their moment as they made their final exit

Backstage, the atmosphere was

full of

Claire found herself surrounded by people-designers, models, guests-all wanting to compliment her, to tell her

It was

the best

Christian strode confidently with a bouquet of flowers in hand, his eyes scanning the crowd for a particular someone. He spotted Talia engaged

eyes lit up as

smile as he walked up to her and handed

said warmly.

fantastic tonight!"

she accepted the flowers. "Oh, Christian! I

the shoulder. "Wouldn't miss it for

I get to see a CEO strut her stuff on the runway. You looked pretty fabulous yourself, Claire." Claire rolled her eyes but couldn't hide the smile tugging at her lips. "Thanks. I guess it's good to

faltered slightly as she thought about the other person she had hoped not to run into tonight. "So, if you're here, that must mean Alex

Alex isn't here. He's holed

out a sigh of relief. "Good. I can actually enjoy