New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 445 The Kidnapping

The atmosphere remained lively and sophisticated. Guests laughed over glasses of champagne, discussing business deals, art, and everything in between. Adrian moved effortlessly through the crowd, his natural charisma keeping everyone captivated. Claire was engaged in a conversation about Metacortex's latest innovations when Matthew approached, his expression bored.

"I'm heading out," he said, interrupting her mid-sentence.

Claire raised an eyebrow. "You're leaving already? The party isn't even over."

Matthew shrugged dramatically. "What can I say? Champagne fountains and overpriced canapés aren't really my thing."

Claire rolled her eyes, suppressing a smile. "You could at least pretend to enjoy yourself. You're at the Saint Laurent estate, Matthew. This is networking gold."

Matthew smirked. "Networking? Please. Half the people here don't even know who I am. Besides, I'm doing you a favor by leaving. Now you can shine without my dazzling presence overshadowing you."

Claire laughed despite herself. "You're impossible. I don't need to shine, Matt. Fine, go. But make sure the driver comes back to pick me up."

He nodded, grinning. "You got it, boss. Try not to let Adrian monopolize you for the rest of the night."

As Matthew walked off, Claire shook her head, returning her attention to her conversation.

A little while later, Adrian approached her, slipping his arm around her waist as she spoke with a group of investors.

"You're hard to keep track of tonight," he said teasingly, his tone low enough for only her to hear.

Claire glanced up at him, smiling. "I could say the same about you, Mr. Social Butterfly. You've been everywhere."

Adrian chuckled. "Occupational hazard. I don't have much of a choice when half the city's power players are here."

you seem to be handling

I'd rather be spending time with you,"

seemed to fade into the background. "I'm glad I came," she

a warm smile. "And I'm glad you're here. It wouldn't be the same

the time and realized how late it had gotten. When Adrian returned a few minutes later, Claire touched his arm. "I think I'm going to head home. It's been a wonderful night, but I'm starting

fell slightly. "Already? I was hoping to steal

chuckled softly. "Rain check? You'll have plenty of time to dance

brushing against hers. "Thank you for coming. It

Adrian," she said with a warm

and kissed her cheek, lingering for a moment. "Get home

waiting for her. The evening air was crisp, and she took a deep breath as she stepped into the sleek black Rolls Royce. Once inside, she leaned back against the seat, letting out a small

The car remained still.

looking up. "Did

and she glanced at the rearview mirror. That was when she saw him a man in a black mask sitting in the

masked man turned and locked eyes with her through the mirror. Before she could react, he reached back

but the fumes were overwhelming. "What are you"

through her as she clawed at the window, but her strength was fading rapidly. "Who sent you? And why are you in

saw before darkness overtook her was

out

curling into a wicked grin as Claire slumped against the seat, unconscious. "Perfect," he murmured, grabbing his

the party fading as he sipped from his glass of champagne. For the

had

evening been a whirlwind

'n

even