New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 414 Taking Him Out

Eligos stared at the news broadcast in disbelief, watching Claire Peterson stride out of the police station like she owned the place. His plans hadn't just gone sideways-they'd crashed and burned. She'd been out of lockup in under five hours, smirking, no less, with her entourage in tow.

Eligos gripped his wine glass, his knuckles turning white. With a snarl, he flung it across the room, where it shattered against the wall, wine dripping down in dark, bloody streaks.

"Unbelievable. This wasn't supposed to happen," he muttered, his gaze fixed on the television. He hit replay, watching the scene again, seething as Claire stepped confidently out, flanked by an older man and a woman.

The man, he quickly realized, was none other than Mr. Saint Laurent, the kingpin of the global business world. His fury surged as he considered her connections. So, Claire had friends in high places. He'd always known she was well-connected, but seeing Saint Laurent by her side was a slap in the face.

"Of course, she knew him. Dammit!"

Slumping back into his chair, Eligos drummed his fingers against his desk.

This wouldn't do.

She wasn't just slippery; she was untouchable, shielded by a fortress of powerful allies.

"She knows all the right people."

Well, two could play that game. He would figure out everyone in her inner circle and unravel the web she'd so carefully spun. His mind worked overtime as he began digging.

though rumor had it that Claire didn't have a particularly high opinion of him. He smirked at that. Perhaps the weakness in her armor? Next, Jack

of intrigue. Not someone Claire could easily control, but possibly just as invested

deeper, but there wasn't much to be found. If there was a rift, it wasn't a public

on Claire's life. Eligos chuckled, amused at the notion. Maybe Lisa could be a useful

there's Adrian Saint Laurent,"

ally; he was in a relationship with Claire. That connection extended to his influential family, including the old man who'd just walked her out of

rattled her. But Adrian came with a family attached, namely the Saint

whiff of drama on. Frustrating. And lastly, Matthew Finnegan. Eligos couldn't find anything substantial about him

the list, feeling more focused but still simmering with frustration. Claire's network was stronger than he'd given her credit for. Taking her down would require time, patience, and a few willing players-like Lisa,

how to wriggle out of trouble. Noted. Matthew was next on his list of people to deal with. Maybe it's time

phone pressed to her ear, talking to Matthew about her next move. Her business partner Alexander Harris had informed her

an eyebrow as Claire filled him in, clearly amused.

funny, Matthew," she replied, rolling her eyes even though he couldn't see

you sure it's wise to leave right now? With all the chaos

have much of a choice, Matthew. I'm bound by contract, and Alexander is my business partner. Plus,

like annoying," Matthew muttered under his breath. "Harris just loves to

laugh. "He's like a stubborn flea you can't get rid of," she joked, and they

keep an eye on both Metacortex and Cryptonic. I'll help however I can from afar, but I trust you to handle things on the ground." Matthew hesitated. "Both companies at once? Claire, that's a lot. I mean, I don't know if I can juggle it

anyone can do it, it's you. That's why you're my advisor, remember? I believe