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."

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

"But-"

your concern, but I've got this. I'll have Talia with me, and I'll stay alert. You just

"Alright. But you call me if anything

said, smiling softly.

concern still evident in

"You too."

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 touches to her makeup-a soft smoky eye

a final glance in the mirror, satisfied

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

greeted by Claire's acquaintance, Sophia, a

pulling Claire into a brief hug. "I'm so glad

miss it for the world," Claire replied, returning the hug. "This

hand modestly. "Thank you. Come, let me show you

sharing stories behind their creation. Claire listened

Sophia turned to

but smile at the mention of her boyfriend. "Things are good.

said warmly. "You deserve someone who

smile softening. "He really

wonderful to hear," her acquaintance said warmly. "You two

before she could say more,

amazing," Talia whispered, her eyes wide as she took in the dazzling displays. "Everything is so beautiful. I wish I could buy

friend's enthusiasm. "You can buy it once it's

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

a reassuring hand on Talia's arm. "Dreams have a way of becoming reality if you believe in them

continued their tour

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