New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 485 Jewellery Exhibition The afternoon sun had long set, and the city shimmered under the soft glow of streetlights as Claire prepared for the jewelry exhibition. In her room, the soft hum of a blow dryer filled the space as her stylist worked on her hair, curling each strand meticulously.

Her makeup artist added the final touches to her look, enhancing her natural beauty with subtle, elegant shades that complemented her skin tone. The deep navy dress Claire had chosen hugged her figure perfectly, exuding sophistication and grace. It was a look that commanded attention without seeking it— classic Claire.

Claire's thoughts wandered briefly to Matthew. She had insisted he remain in the hospital to rest, despite his protests. Their last conversation replayed in her mind.

Flashback to the Hospital Scene

Matthew had sat up in his bed, stubborn as ever. "Claire, I'm fine. I can come with you to the exhibition. You shouldn't go alone."

Claire had crossed her arms, a mix of exasperation and concern etched on her face. "Matthew, you're still recovering. You need rest, not another evening of standing around in a room full of people."

Matthew had frowned, his determination evident. "And you need someone to watch your back. Eligos isn't going to just sit around and do nothing."

Claire had leaned in, her voice softer. "I know, but you're not at full strength yet. I need you to trust me on this. Just for one more day."

After a long pause, Matthew had sighed, relenting. "Alright, but you call me if anything happens, okay?" "Deal," Claire had said, smiling despite the tension.

End of Flashback

The buzz of her phone on the vanity brought Claire back to the present. Glancing at the screen, she saw Matthew's name. She shook her head, a knowing smile tugging at her lips as she answered.

"Matthew, I'm fine," she said, preemptively.

Matthew's voice came through, laced with both concern and frustration. "Are you ready?"

Claire leaned back in her chair, letting the stylist finish her hair. "Yes, I am. And you don't need to worry. It's just a jewelry exhibition."

There was a sigh on the other end. "Claire, you know Eligos is unpredictable. He could have something planned, even for an event like this."

tone calm. "Matthew, Eligos isn't going to crash a jewelry exhibition. It's not my event, and

"But-"

this. I'll have Talia with me, and I'll stay

then a resigned, "Alright. But you call

promise," Claire said,

the concern still evident in his voice. "Take

"You too."

and her makeup highlighted her sharp features. Claire stood in front of her full-length mirror, adjusting the elegant navy-blue gown that hugged her figure. The dress was simple yet striking, with a subtle shimmer that caught the light. She carefully fastened a pair of diamond earrings, a gift from Adrian, and applied the final

final glance in the mirror,

some of the most exquisite jewelry pieces Claire had ever seen. The air buzzed with the hum of conversation and the clinking

acquaintance, Sophia, a renowned jewelry designer whose

a brief

Claire replied, returning the

you.

Claire listened

Sophia turned to Claire with a playful smile. "So, how are

of her boyfriend. "Things

warmly. "You

Claire said, her smile softening. "He really does make

said warmly. "You two make such

her face. But before she could say more, Talia leaned in, her

whispered, her eyes wide as she took in the dazzling displays. "Everything

chuckled, amused by her friend's enthusiasm. "You can buy it once

it's out, I doubt I could afford any of it.

"Dreams have a way

their tour of

atmosphere light and enjoyable. For a moment, Claire allowed herself to relax, to enjoy the