New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 443 Adrian Birthday Bash

As she descended the stairs to the kitchen, the sound of rustling in the fridge caught her attention. She stopped in her tracks, raising a curious brow. "Matthew?" she called, her tone already carrying a hint of exasperation.

Matthew turned around, cheesecake stuffed in his mouth, a sheepish expression on his face. "I can't help it," he mumbled, crumbs falling as he spoke. "It was just sitting there, begging to be eaten." Claire crossed her arms, shaking her head in disbelief. "That's not even yours! I bought it yesterday for when I get back. Seriously, Matthew, you're like a kid in a candy store when it comes to my fridge." "Hey, you're the one who stocked it with irresistible goodies," he countered with a grin, finishing off the cheesecake slice and licking his fingers. "Anyway, you look nice. All dressed up for lover boy's big day?" "Yes, and if you so much as smudge this dress, you're walking to Adrian's mansion," Claire teased, holding up a finger in warning.

Matthew raised his hands defensively. "Relax. I'll be on my best behavior. No cheesecake fingerprints on your designer gown, I promise."

Claire rolled her eyes, setting the memory box and brooch down briefly to adjust her earrings in the reflection of the glass cabinet. "Are you ready?" Matthew asked after a moment, leaning against the counter.

"Almost. Just grabbing the gifts," Claire replied, picking up the beautifully wrapped box and the brooch's sleek black case. She turned to Matthew and added, "And you'd better behave tonight. Adrian invited half of the business elite, and I can't have you embarrassing me." Matthew feigned mock offense. "Me? Embarrass you? I'm a delight at parties."

"More like a walking PR disaster," Claire shot back, unable to suppress a smirk. "But seriously, I was surprised to see Adrian invited Alexander Harris."

Matthew's playful demeanor shifted slightly as he tilted his head. "Yeah, that's... unexpected. Doesn't he know you and Alexander don't exactly see eye to eye?"

"Oh, I'm sure he knows," Claire said with a sigh, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. "But it's his birthday. If he wants to invite Alexander, that's his choice. I'll just have to deal with it."

"Or we can accidentally spill a drink on Alexander," Matthew suggested, his grin returning. "I'd do it for you."

Claire laughed, shaking her head. "Tempting, but no. Let's try to keep things civil. For Adrian's sake."

A sleek Rolls-Royce was already waiting for them outside the penthouse. As they stepped into the luxurious car, Matthew whistled appreciatively. "You know, I could get used to this. Being chauffeured around in style." "Don't get too comfortable," Claire said, settling into the seat. "You're still not touching the snacks in the car."

The drive to the Saint Laurent mansion was smooth and uneventful, though Claire found herself fidgeting slightly with the ribbon on the memory box. The thought of seeing Alexander-and having to navigate the awkwardness of being in the same room-gnawed at her. But when the car pulled up to the sprawling estate, her apprehension was replaced with awe. Adrian's home was nothing short of breathtaking, with its grand architecture and meticulously landscaped gardens.

ballroom was a vision of opulence, with crystal chandeliers casting a warm glow over the crowd of impeccably dressed guests.

they walked in. "Wow. And I

gave him a

He grinned. "Always."

the part of a host in his tailored suit. His face lit up

stunning," he said, his voice warm as

look dashing, as always," Claire replied with a smile,

took the gifts, his expression curious. "Should I

around. "You've got a lot of guests to

I'll definitely make time

guests, Claire took a glass of champagne from a passing

small group of sycophantic admirers. Their eyes met briefly, and he raised his glass in a mock

muttered under

the devil?" Matthew quipped, appearing at her

the snake," Claire replied, taking a sip of her drink. "I'm avoiding

move," Matthew said. "But if he does try to corner you, just give me

Claire said, grateful for Matthew's

on, Claire couldn't help but admire how seamlessly Adrian navigated the crowd. He was charming and gracious, making every guest

Claire, his smile softer now that the formalities of hosting were winding down. "How are you

Adrian could say more,

was part of being a Saint Laurent-the grandson of one of the most influential

back to your admirers," Claire whispered

kissed her cheek. "Don't stray