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."

"Well, you seem to be

with you,"

smile grew, and for a moment, the bustling room seemed to fade into

smile. "And I'm glad you're here. It wouldn't be the same without

away again by another guest eager to chat. Claire 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

was hoping to steal you

chuckled softly. "Rain check? You'll have

hand brushing against hers. "Thank

Adrian," she said with

and kissed her cheek, lingering for a

nodded, 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.

The car remained still.

looking up. "Did you hear

was when she saw him a man in

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

but the fumes were overwhelming. "What

pull of 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

darkness overtook her

find out soon

lair, Eligos watched the scene unfold on one of his screens. He leaned forward, his lips curling into a wicked grin as Claire slumped against the seat, unconscious. "Perfect," he murmured, grabbing his phone to issue further instructions to his

leaned against the balcony of his mansion, the sounds of the party fading as he sipped from

had

The evening been a whirlwind

'n

even with all