New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 351 Strolling in Paris

The car wound its way through the Paris streets, the famous landmarks of the city passing by as they headed toward the iconic Eiffel Tower. Claire stared out the window, feeling a little conflicted. She knew she needed to get back to London and bury herself in work, but there was something refreshing about Adrian's carefree attitude. For once, maybe he was right-maybe she did need a break. "Adrian," she said after a moment, "you know this doesn't mean I'm going to start slacking off, right?"

He laughed, turning to her with a teasing grin. "Oh, I wouldn't dare think that. But even the toughest, most hardworking people need a little fun now and then. You're allowed to enjoy yourself."

Claire gave him a sideways glance. "You've got a point. But just so you know, I'm already mentally preparing to dive back into work the second we're back in London."

Adrian shook his head in mock disbelief. "I wouldn't expect anything less. But for now, just enjoy Paris. You deserve it."

Soon, the car pulled up near the Eiffel Tower, the iron giant looming overhead, glittering against the twilight sky. Claire gazed up at it, a small smile tugging at the corner of her lips. She'd been to Paris plenty of times, but there was something about seeing the Eiffel Tower like this, with its golden lights twinkling, that never got old.

Adrian jumped out of the car first and extended a hand to help Claire out, his grin wide and goofy. "M'lady," he said, putting on an exaggerated posh accent.

Claire rolled her eyes, but couldn't help the laugh that escaped her. "You're ridiculous," she said, taking his hand and stepping out of the car.

They walked over to a quieter spot where they could get a perfect view of the tower. Adrian stood beside her, hands in his pockets, as they both looked up at the iconic structure.

"Pretty nice, huh?" Adrian said, nudging her gently.

"Yeah," Claire admitted, her voice soft. "It is."

for the first time in a long time, Claire allowed herself to feel at ease. Adrian glanced over at her and saw the tension in her shoulders start to melt away. He smiled to himself,

said quietly, not looking at him. "I didn't realize how much I

"See? I told you. You just needed

Don't get too smug about

little more time at the Eiffel Tower, the conversation light and easy. For a little while, Claire forgot about the chaos back in London, about Alexander, Claudia, and all the drama. Here, it was just her and Adrian, enjoying a peaceful moment in one of

below the horizon, casting a soft orange glow over Paris. Claire and Adrian were strolling leisurely near the Eiffel Tower, the iconic structure bathed in golden light. The atmosphere was calm, almost dreamlike, and

Paris," he started, casually but with a hint of mischief in his voice, "why don't we have dinner

this, didn't you? You wanted to make sure we didn't go back?" She teased, her tone playful,

the grin on his face widening. "But come on, how often do

lips. "Fine," she said, pretending to be reluctant, though she was clearly enjoying the idea. She nodded, and they made

leaned forward and gave the driver the address of a restaurant. Claire

like to

playful. They exchanged jokes and stories, laughing easily as the city passed by outside. When they arrived at the restaurant, the golden hour was fading

ambiance, the soft glow of candles on every table adding a warm touch. The decor was luxurious without being intimidating, and despite its fancy vibe, the restaurant felt comfortable. Adrian spoke to the hostess, and soon enough, they were being led to a table near the window. Claire slid into

nice" Claire admitted, feeling surprisingly relaxed. The tension of the past few days seemed to melt

like it. Paris at sunset, a nice dinner-what's not to

observations about the tourists they'd seen earlier. Claire found herself laughing more than she had in days, feeling

and it was as delicious as expected. They took their time, savoring every bite, but it was during dessert that things began to shift. Adrian's mood, white still warm, grew a little more serious. Claire didn't notice

hand gently touched hers across

"Need something?" she