New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 314 Uninvited Guest

Claire was wrapping up her day at the office, organizing her things and getting ready to head over to the restaurant Alexander had booked for the celebration. She slung her bag over her shoulder, about to leave, when the door to her office creaked open. It was Adrian,

standing there with a wide grin and holding a single flower in his hand.

Claire smiled, a little surprised but happy to see him. She walked toward him, eyes flicking from the flower to his face. "Is that for me?" she asked, already knowing the answer but teasing him a little.

Adrian handed her the flower, his smile not fading. "Congrats on that presentation today. You killed it!"

Claire blushed, taking the flower from him and holding it to her nose. "Thank you, Adrian. How did you know about it?"

He chuckled, leaning against her desk like he owned the place. "I know everything, remember?" he whispered like it was some grand secret.

Claire rolled her eyes but couldn't help the smile that tugged at her lips. "Right, of course, how could I forget?"

Adrian straightened up a little, his expression turning apologetic. "Sorry I couldn't come by earlier, though. Got caught up with some stuff."

Claire waved her hand dismissively. "It's fine, no big deal. You're here now."

He glanced at the clock on the wall, tilting his head. "So, where are you headed? It's still a bit early to call it a night."

"Oh, Alexander booked a restaurant for the team," Claire replied, slipping the flower into her bag. "We're celebrating the success of the presentation."

Adrian raised an eyebrow, his tone carrying a hint of skepticism. "How nice of him. Alexander throwing a party? That's a first."

Claire smirked, catching the edge in his tone. "Who knows. Maybe he feels satisfied with the presentation."

"Hmm, well, I guess I'll let you head off then," Adrian said, though he didn't make any move to leave. "I'll head home. Just wanted to drop by."

hesitated for a second, feeling bad that he came all this way just to leave again. "Actually,

the dinner? Are you sure that's okay? I mean, I'm not exactly

"It's just dinner, Adrian.

for a second, then nodded.

down to the lobby together, chatting lightly as they went. When they got outside, Adrian opened the passenger door of his car for her with a playful bow.

drive took about 30 minutes, with the two of them talking and laughing along the way. When they finally arrived at the Pier Restaurant, Claire stepped inside and immediately noticed how quiet it was. It was almost too quiet. Only her team was there, scattered around a long table. Alexander was seated

to Alexander.

here?" Alexander asked,

reaction. "I invited him," she

of the team, Claire. And

rolled her eyes, the tension creeping into her shoulders. "You're being paranoid,

push it further. He just

subject, glancing around the empty restaurant.

himself. "I booked the whole restaurant. Thought it'd be nice to have the

board with the idea. "Isn't that a bit... much?

paranoid." He smirked, using her own words against her. Before Claire could argue, Stephen approached their table, looking a bit nervous. "Ms. Peterson, can I talk to you for a

who looked annoyed, but she nodded at Stephen and followed

said, his voice low. "For trusting me with this project. I know I wasn't sure at first, but I really appreciate you giving me a chance." Claire smiled, her expression softening. "You've been great, Stephen. I knew you had the skills we

a little bashful but

leaning in slightly as she whispered, "You're welcome anytime to Cryptonic. Just keep it a secret,

her help earlier. Abigail

a lot of Abigail without you,

room buzzed

and the clinking

as Abigail, Claire,

were having a