New beginning: Billionaire love story novel Chapter 293

Claire clapped her hand, and forced a smile as she watched Alexander Harris descend the stage. He’d just won the final bid—a jaw-dropping $200 million for a piece of jewelry, the famed Saint Laurent necklace. The amount was absurd, even to someone as wealthy as Claire.

Sure, she had plenty of money, but even she wasn’t foolish enough to spend that much on a piece of jewelry.

Claire's mood had sunk like a stone, but her face stayed calm and collected. She was good at that—hiding what she really felt behind a mask of ease. The other guests rushed to congratulate Alexander as he passed by their tables, and when he reached hers, Claire stood, her fake smile perfectly in place.

“Congratulations, Alexander,” she said, extending her hand.

Alexander shook it, his grip firm but relaxed. “Thank you, Claire.”

Behind him, Adrian approached his smile more business than pleasure. “Congrats, Alexander,” he said smoothly. “I believe you will take care of it. It's been a while since someone held it.”

Alexander gave a polite nod, though his face was still tense every time he talked to Adrian. “I’ll take care of it.”

Claire barely paid attention. Her phone buzzed in her hand, a text from Matthew: I'll be there soon.

She pocketed her phone, and Adrian excused himself. “I’m off to speak with my grandfather. I’ll catch up with you two later.” He gave Claire a nod before heading toward the far end of the room, leaving her alone with Alexander.

Great, just what she needed.

Claire crossed her arms, glancing at Alexander. “What are you going to do with it?”

Alexander, hands stuffed into his pockets, shrugged. “I haven’t really thought about it.”

Claire’s brow furrowed. “You spent $200 million on a necklace, and you don’t know what you’re going to do with it?”

He smirked, raising his brows as if amused by her irritation. “Are you jealous you didn’t win?”

Claire scoffed. “Please. I’m not stupid enough to blow that kind of money on a necklace.”

Her tone was sharp, but Alexander just chuckled. He didn’t seem to take anything seriously, and that only annoyed her more.

“Enjoy your night,” she said, voice dripping with sarcasm. She turned sharply on her heel and headed for the bar. She needed a drink, something strong to take the edge off her frustration.

As she made her way through the crowd, someone bumped into her, hard. The next thing she knew, cold liquid splashed down her front, soaking her dress.

Claire gasped, her eyes wide as she looked down at the red wine now staining her pale blue gown. She snapped her gaze up to see who the culprit was, and of course, it was none other than Gretta Robertson, queen of fake smiles and petty drama.

“Oh, I’m so sorry, Claire!” Gretta exclaimed, her tone high-pitched and insincere. Her expression was the picture of fake surprise, eyes wide as if she hadn’t just deliberately spilled wine all over Claire’s dress.

Claire narrowed her eyes, seething beneath her calm exterior. “Use your eyes next time, Gretta.”

Gretta’s lips twitched into a mocking smile. “Accidents happen,” she said with a shrug. Then, as if she couldn’t resist twisting the knife, she added, “By the way, congratulations for not winning the bid. Seems like the great Claire Peterson doesn't always get what she wants. Tough luck.”