New beginning: Billionaire love story novel Chapter 443

As she descended the stairs to the kitchen, the sound of rustling in the fridge caught her attention. She stopped in her tracks, raising a curious brow.

“Matthew?” she called, her tone already carrying a hint of exasperation.

Matthew turned around, cheesecake stuffed in his mouth, a sheepish expression on his face. “I can’t help it,” he mumbled, crumbs falling as he spoke. “It was just sitting there, begging to be eaten.”

Claire crossed her arms, shaking her head in disbelief. “That’s not even yours! I bought it yesterday for when I get back. Seriously, Matthew, you’re like a kid in a candy store when it comes to my fridge.”

“Hey, you’re the one who stocked it with irresistible goodies,” he countered with a grin, finishing off the cheesecake slice and licking his fingers. “Anyway, you look nice. All dressed up for lover boy’s big day?”

“Yes, and if you so much as smudge this dress, you’re walking to Adrian’s mansion,” Claire teased, holding up a finger in warning.

Matthew raised his hands defensively. “Relax. I’ll be on my best behavior. No cheesecake fingerprints on your designer gown, I promise.”

Claire rolled her eyes, setting the memory box and brooch down briefly to adjust her earrings in the reflection of the glass cabinet. “Are you ready?” Matthew asked after a moment, leaning against the counter.

“Almost. Just grabbing the gifts,” Claire replied, picking up the beautifully wrapped box and the brooch’s sleek black case. She turned to Matthew and added, “And you’d better behave tonight. Adrian invited half of the business elite, and I can’t have you embarrassing me.”

Matthew feigned mock offense. “Me? Embarrass you? I’m a delight at parties.”

“More like a walking PR disaster,” Claire shot back, unable to suppress a smirk. “But seriously, I was surprised to see Adrian invited Alexander Harris.”

Matthew’s playful demeanor shifted slightly as he tilted his head. “Yeah, that’s… unexpected. Doesn’t he know you and Alexander don’t exactly see eye to eye?”

“Oh, I’m sure he knows,” Claire said with a sigh, tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. “But it’s his birthday. If he wants to invite Alexander, that’s his choice. I’ll just have to deal with it.”

“Or we can accidentally spill a drink on Alexander,” Matthew suggested, his grin returning. “I’d do it for you.”

Claire laughed, shaking her head. “Tempting, but no. Let’s try to keep things civil. For Adrian’s sake.”

A sleek Rolls-Royce was already waiting for them outside the penthouse. As they stepped into the luxurious car, Matthew whistled appreciatively. “You know, I could get used to this. Being chauffeured around in style.”

“Don’t get too comfortable,” Claire said, settling into the seat. “You’re still not touching the snacks in the car.”

The drive to the Saint Laurent mansion was smooth and uneventful, though Claire found herself fidgeting slightly with the ribbon on the memory box. The thought of seeing Alexander—and having to navigate the awkwardness of being in the same room—gnawed at her. But when the car pulled up to the sprawling estate, her apprehension was replaced with awe. Adrian’s home was nothing short of breathtaking, with its grand architecture and meticulously landscaped gardens.

As they stepped inside, the party was already in full swing. The grand ballroom was a vision of opulence, with crystal chandeliers casting a warm glow over the crowd of impeccably dressed guests. Servers weaved through the throng, offering glasses of champagne and trays of hors d'oeuvres.

Matthew leaned closer to Claire as they walked in. “Wow. And I thought your penthouse was fancy. This place is on another level.”

Claire gave him a side-eye. “Behave.”

He grinned. “Always.”

They were quickly greeted by Adrian himself, who looked every bit the part of a host in his tailored suit. His face lit up when he saw Claire, and he closed the distance between them in a few strides.

“You look stunning,” he said, his voice warm as he kissed her cheek.

“And you look dashing, as always,” Claire replied with a smile, handing him the box and the small case. “Happy birthday, Adrian.”

Adrian took the gifts, his expression curious. “Should I open them now or later?”