New beginning: Billionaire love story novel Chapter 286

Alexander was not in the mood for games. His fingers punched in the private investigator’s number like they had a score to settle, and the moment the line connected, he didn't waste a second. No pleasantries, no chitchat, just straight to business.

“Find Lisa Thompson. Now.”

The PI didn’t argue and didn’t ask questions. He recognized the tone in Alex's voice, the kind that told him he’d better move fast if he didn’t want to end up on the wrong side of his boss’s temper. The PI got to work, and Alex sank into his chair, leaning back, staring at the ceiling, trying to make sense of his swirling thoughts.

“That bitch! I really have enough of her.”

What could Lisa possibly be thinking? After everything that had gone down between them—everything she’d done to him and to Claire—why was she pushing her luck?

Ten minutes passed—though it felt like an eternity—before Alex’s phone finally buzzed. His PI had the goods.

“She is at a restaurant on West 22nd. I’m texting you the location now,” the PI said, his voice trembling slightly as if he were afraid Alex might reach through the phone and throttle him if the information wasn’t delivered fast enough.

“Good. Keep me updated with her location.” Alexander replied curtly and hung up without another word.

In one fluid motion, Alex pushed back his chair, jumped to his feet, and stormed toward the door. As he crossed the lobby, he dialed his head bodyguard.

“Meet me at the private docks. Now. Have the team ready.” he ordered, his tone sharp and unforgiving.

“Will do, sir.”

As soon as Alex hit the parking lot, he jumped into his car, slammed the door shut, and peeled out, heading straight for Lisa’s location. He didn’t care if he hit a few speed bumps—literal or metaphorical—on the way. The streets were mercifully empty, which gave him free rein to push the gas pedal to the floor, his mind racing faster than the car.

After what felt like an eternity of burning rubber, he finally pulled up to the restaurant. His car screeched to a halt as he parked, and he stepped out, scanning the place like a hawk looking for its prey. He walked in, the buzz of conversation and clinking silverware filling the air, but his eyes were locked on one thing—a familiar blonde head sitting at the back of the room.

There she was. Lisa Thompson, looking as calm and collected as ever. Like she hadn’t caused him endless grief.

Without hesitating, Alex strode toward her, his gaze fixed on her like a laser. His eyes were cold, and as if sensing his presence, Lisa suddenly turned in his direction. Her eyes widened in surprise when she saw him approaching, and for a split second, it looked like she didn’t know whether to smile or run.

“Alex!” Lisa exclaimed, standing up from her chair with a forced cheerfulness. She walked toward him, trying to place her hands on his chest, but Alex didn’t have any of it. “What are you doing here?”

He grabbed her wrist before she could even touch him, his grip firm, his voice icy.

“Lisa,” he said, his voice icy, the sound of her name cutting through the air like a blade. Her eyes widened even further, a flicker of confusion passing over her face.

“What—what's wrong? Is there something you want to tell me?” she asked, trying to keep her voice light, but Alex could see right through her. The fake innocence wasn’t going to work this time.

He didn’t answer her. He wasn’t about to fall for whatever act she had rehearsed this time. Instead, he leaned in just a bit, still holding her wrist, and said, “You're coming with me.”

Lisa blinked; a look of confusion etched on her face. “Let me grab my purse.” Lisa grabbed her bag quickly and the next thing she knew, Alex grabbed her wrist and dragged her out of the restaurant.

“Are you in a hurry?”