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.

was a vision of opulence, with crystal chandeliers casting a warm glow over the crowd of impeccably dressed guests. Servers weaved through the throng, offering glasses of champagne and trays

as they walked in. "Wow. And I thought

gave him a side-eye.

He grinned. "Always."

the part of a host in his tailored suit. His face lit up when he saw Claire, and he closed the distance between

look stunning," he said, his voice

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

the gifts, his expression curious. "Should I open them now

glancing around. "You've got a lot of

"True. But I'll definitely make time

champagne from a passing server and surveyed the room.

of sycophantic admirers. Their eyes met briefly, and he raised

muttered under her breath,

the devil?" Matthew quipped, appearing at her side with his own

like the snake," Claire replied, taking a sip of

Matthew said. "But if he does try to corner you,

Claire

on, Claire couldn't help but admire how seamlessly Adrian navigated the crowd. He was charming and gracious, making every guest feel welcome. It was one of the things she loved

to Claire, his smile softer now that the formalities of hosting were winding down. "How are you holding up?" he asked, slipping an arm around her waist. "Better now," she said, leaning into

Adrian could

engaging him in conversation. Claire smiled, understanding the necessity of entertaining guests even on his own birthday. That was part of being a Saint

Claire whispered

kissed her