New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 306 Prince Edward

Claire took the glass of champagne from the passing waiter. As she got out of the car earlier, she felt the attention of every eye around her. Photographers turned their cameras towards her, capturing her every move. She had a hunch. The dress she was wearing might be

a bit too much, but Talia insisted, saying, "You only live once, girl!" That's how Claire ended up in the daring outfit, feeling a mix of confidence and nervousness.

Talia was already buzzing with excitement as she watched the horses getting into position. "This is so thrilling!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling.

Claire nodded, taking a sip of her champagne, trying to match Talia's enthusiasm. "Yeah, it's something, isn't it?"

Just then, a light cough from behind caught her attention. Claire turned around to see a young man standing there, a charming smile on his face and a glass of champagne in hand.

"I couldn't help but notice you," he said, his voice smooth. "You look absolutely stunning."

Claire gave him a polite smile. "Thank you."

The man extended his hand, his smile widening. "I'm Edward. Prince Edward, actually."

Claire's eyebrows shot up in surprise, but she kept her cool and shook his hand. "Claire Peterson. Nice to meet you."

Edward's smile brightened even more. "The pleasure is mine, Claire."

Talia, who had been observing the exchange, looked stunned. Her eyes darted between Claire and Edward, her mind racing. A prince?! This day was getting more exciting by the second. Claire turned to Talia and introduced her. "This is my friend, Talia."

Talia awkwardly smiled and offered her hand. "Nice to meet you, Prince Edward."

Edward nodded politely at Talia, but his gaze quickly returned to Claire. "So, is this your first time at the Royal Ascot?"

Claire shook her head, keeping her tone calm. "No, it's my second time."

Edward nodded thoughtfully. "No wonder I haven't seen you before. I'm sure I would've remembered."

"Yeah," Claire replied simply, taking another sip of her drink. Her voice was steady and gave nothing away, which seemed to throw Edward off his game.

Edward shifted his weight, suddenly looking awkward. He was used to women giggling and fawning over him, but Claire was different. She seemed so composed, almost like she wasn't impressed by his title or charm. He cleared his throat and tried again.

were watching the scene unfold from a distance. Henry looked like he was about to burst out laughing but managed to hold it back, maintaining his composed image as a

struggling a bit,"

his eyes twinkling with amusement. "Oh, definitely.

do you enjoy watching horse racing?" he asked, glancing at the track

shrugged. "It's entertaining, but I don't watch it

trying to think of something clever to say, but his usual confidence was faltering. "Well,

raised her eyebrows, a small smile playing on her lips. "How

blinked, clearly not expecting that question. "Uh,

slightly. "You've got a lot to learn about charming women." With

with what had just happened.

longer and burst out laughing, clutching his sides. "Oh, Edward!

back. "Don't take it too hard, mate.

sighed, running a hand through his hair. "I don't get

this one apparently." Henry said, shaking his

their booth, the crowd buzzing with excitement around them. Talia, still a bit shocked from what she'd just overheard, leaned in closer to Claire. "Did I hear that right? Prince Edward was

an eyebrow, clearly not understanding her friend's nonchalance.

breaking her stride.

looked at her in disbelief. "Maybe? Girl, he's a prince.

as they climbed the stairs to their booth. "Talia, he's like... twenty-three. Still a kid

He's a prince! It's kind of hard to get a better type

don't impress me, Talia.

unable to believe Claire's attitude. "You're crazy, you know that? I would've fainted on the spot. I mean, it's not every day you get a chance to chat

drained the last drop. "You're welcome to him, then. I'm sure he'd love someone

making his way to his booth, walking slowly beside Abigail, who had her leg in a cast. Alexander glanced down at her with a concerned frown. "Are

to push

up for so long. I've always wanted to see the Royal Ascot, and I wasn't going to let this cast stop me." Alexander's frown softened, and he smiled

head. "I promise. I'll stay

eyes scanning the crowd. "If you need

me," Abigail said softly, glancing at

makeup when she bumped into someone. "Oh! I'm so

into a quick hug. "Talia! Long time

surprise quickly turning into excitement. "What are you