New beginning: Billionaire love story (Claire and Alex) novel Chapter 351

The car wound its way through the Paris streets, the famous landmarks of the city passing by as they headed toward the iconic Eiffel Tower. Claire stared out the window, feeling a little conflicted. She knew she needed to get back to London and bury herself in work, but there was something refreshing about Adrian’s carefree attitude. For once, maybe he was right—maybe she did need a break.

“Adrian,” she said after a moment, “you know this doesn’t mean I’m going to start slacking off, right?”

He laughed, turning to her with a teasing grin. “Oh, I wouldn’t dare think that. But even the toughest, most hardworking people need a little fun now and then. You’re allowed to enjoy yourself.”

Claire gave him a sideways glance. “You’ve got a point. But just so you know, I’m already mentally preparing to dive back into work the second we’re back in London.”

Adrian shook his head in mock disbelief. “I wouldn’t expect anything less. But for now, just enjoy Paris. You deserve it.”

Soon, the car pulled up near the Eiffel Tower, the iron giant looming overhead, glittering against the twilight sky. Claire gazed up at it, a small smile tugging at the corner of her lips. She’d been to Paris plenty of times, but there was something about seeing the Eiffel Tower like this, with its golden lights twinkling, that never got old.

Adrian jumped out of the car first and extended a hand to help Claire out, his grin wide and goofy. “M’lady,” he said, putting on an exaggerated posh accent.

Claire rolled her eyes, but couldn’t help the laugh that escaped her. “You’re ridiculous,” she said, taking his hand and stepping out of the car.

They walked over to a quieter spot where they could get a perfect view of the tower. Adrian stood beside her, hands in his pockets, as they both looked up at the iconic structure.

“Pretty nice, huh?” Adrian said, nudging her gently.

“Yeah,” Claire admitted, her voice soft. “It is.”

They stood in silence for a moment, just taking in the view. The lights of Paris stretched out beneath them, and for the first time in a long time, Claire allowed herself to feel at ease. Adrian glanced over at her and saw the tension in her shoulders start to melt away. He smiled to himself, glad his plan to cheer her up was working.

“Thanks, Adrian,” Claire said quietly, not looking at him. “I didn’t realize how much I needed this.”

Adrian’s grin widened. “See? I told you. You just needed to stop and take a breath.”

Claire chuckled. “Yeah, yeah. Don’t get too smug about it.”

They spent a little more time at the Eiffel Tower, the conversation light and easy. For a little while, Claire forgot about the chaos back in London, about Alexander, Claudia, and all the drama. Here, it was just her and Adrian, enjoying a peaceful moment in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

The sun was just about to dip below the horizon, casting a soft orange glow over Paris. Claire and Adrian were strolling leisurely near the Eiffel Tower, the iconic structure bathed in golden light. The atmosphere was calm, almost dreamlike, and it seemed like nothing could disturb their peace.

Adrian glanced at Claire and smiled. “Since we’re already in Paris,” he started, casually but with a hint of mischief in his voice, “why don’t we have dinner here? You know, make the most of it?”

Claire raised an eyebrow, amused. She tilted her head, studying him for a moment. “Oh, so you planned this, didn’t you? You wanted to make sure we didn’t go back?” She teased, her tone playful, making Adrian chuckle.

The food arrived, and it was as delicious as expected. They took their time, savoring every bite, but it was during dessert that things began to shift. Adrian’s mood, while still warm, grew a little more serious. Claire didn’t notice at first—she was too busy marveling at her chocolate mousse—but then she felt it. Adrian’s hand gently touched hers across the table.

She blinked and looked up, slightly startled. “Need something?” she asked with a half-smile, her eyes questioning but still relaxed.

Adrian smiled softly, but this time there was something different in his expression—something more vulnerable. “Actually, yeah. There’s something I’ve been wanting to tell you for a while.”

Claire set her fork down and turned to face him fully, curiosity piqued. “Oh?” she said, her voice light but her eyes searching his face. “What is it?”

For a moment, Adrian seemed to hesitate, as if gathering his thoughts. Then he took a breath, his eyes never leaving hers. “Claire, I know we only know each other for a short time. And I’ve always admired you—your strength, your intelligence, the way you handle things. But recently…” He paused, smiling again, this time more nervously. “Recently, I’ve realized that it’s more than just admiration.”

Claire’s brow furrowed slightly, not sure where he was going with this. “Adrian, what are you saying?”

He held her gaze, his tone sincere and steady. “I’m saying I have feelings for you. More than just friendship. I’ve been trying to figure out the right time to tell you, and now just felt… right.”

For a split second, Claire felt like her brain had short-circuited. Adrian? Adrian had feelings for her?

This was not what she had expected when they set out for dinner.