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."

slightly. "Well, you seem to

spending time with

the bustling room seemed to fade into the background.

smile. "And I'm glad you're here. It wouldn't

glanced at 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

"Already? I was hoping to steal

"Rain check? You'll have plenty of time to dance with

"Thank you

said with a

and kissed her cheek, lingering for a moment.

making her way outside to the car 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.

frowned, looking up.

Claire's unease grew, and she glanced at the rearview mirror. That was when she saw

masked man turned and locked eyes with her through

immediately tried to cover her nose and mouth, but the fumes were overwhelming. "What

unconsciousness, her fingers fumbling for the door handle, but the child safety locks had been engaged. Panic surged through her as she clawed at the window, but her strength was fading rapidly. "Who sent you? And why are you in my car?" Claire coughed as she tried

thing she saw before darkness overtook her was the masked man's

find out soon

his screens. He leaned forward, his lips curling into a wicked grin as Claire slumped against the seat,

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

had

to relax. The evening been a whirlwind of handshakes,

'n

even with