New beginning: Billionaire love story (Claire and Alex) novel Chapter 412

Matthew followed the officer down a narrow hallway lit by the faint glow of flickering lights. As they approached the cell, he saw Claire pacing back and forth, her usual confident composure now tainted by a mix of frustration and confusion. The clinking of the officer's keys echoed as he unlocked the door, letting Matthew step closer.

“Claire!” Matthew called out, gripping the cold steel of the cell bars.

She looked up, rolling her eyes as if this were just another minor inconvenience in her day. “Matthew, finally. Do you know how boring it is in here?”

Matthew raised his hands, as if to defend himself. “Hey, I got here as fast as I could. What happened?” He scanned her face, clearly looking for some answers. "I saw the headline on the news, and I thought... well, I didn't think this was happening."

Claire sighed, brushing her fingers through her hair in exasperation. “Well, I was in the parking lot at Metacortex, about to leave when a bunch of police cars rolled up. Next thing I know, they’re claiming they got a tip that I have evidence related to the dead man in the trunk.” She crossed her arms, her expression growing darker. “And, behold, they searched my car and found a knife. Just like that. Neatly planted for them to find.”

Matthew’s eyes widened. “A knife? In your car? How did it even get there?”

She gave an exaggerated shrug. “That’s the question of the day, isn’t it? It doesn’t make sense. I wouldn’t be so sloppy to leave something like that. Someone’s trying to set me up. I can feel it.”

Matthew nodded, considering. “Alright, first things first, I’ll call your lawyer. We’re going to need an alibi too. We just have to show you couldn’t have been there to do whatever they’re accusing you of.”

“Right,” Claire agreed, nodding, her gaze hopeful. “You could tell them you were with me all night while we were tracking that anonymous hacker.” She tilted her head. “That would count, right?”

Matthew hesitated, scratching the back of his head. “There’s a problem with that, though. We were using Cryptonic that night, and Billy was in the office with us.” He leaned in, lowering his voice. “If we admit that, it’s gonna expose Cryptonic. We’d be dragging it into this mess, and we’re not supposed to let anyone know it even exists.”

Claire bit her lip, thinking it over. She glanced down, and then whispered, “No. Cryptonic have to stay hidden. We can’t risk that. Try to find another alibi.” Her face suddenly lit up with an idea. “Wait! Adrian. I was at the hospital with him that night. He was still unconscious, but his mother and grandfather were there. They could vouch for me.”

Matthew’s face brightened. “Perfect. I’ll reach out to them. They can confirm it.”

Claire sighed with relief, her shoulders relaxing for the first time since he’d seen her. “Thank you, Matthew. Really.”

He smiled, giving her a reassuring nod. “We’ll get you out of here. Don’t worry.”

Leaving the station, Matthew was greeted by a mob of reporters and flashing cameras. He grimaced, shielding his face as he squeezed through, the police doing their best to keep the crowd at bay. Once he was clear, he stepped a few blocks away and took out his phone, dialing Adrian’s number.

After a few rings, Adrian picked up, his voice tense. “Matthew, I saw the news about Claire. What’s going on? Is she alright?”

“She’s okay for now, but she really needs your help,” Matthew explained. “Here’s the deal. The night of your accident, Claire was with you at the hospital, even though you were unconscious. Your mom and grandfather were there too. If they could give a statement confirming she was with you, it would be a solid alibi.”

Adrian didn’t hesitate. “I’ll contact them now. We’ll head to the station as soon as possible.”

Matthew let out a breath, feeling a weight lift from his shoulders. “Thank you, Adrian. You’re a lifesaver.”

With a smug chuckle, she pointed at the TV screen, whispering to herself, “Enjoy your cell, Claire.”

Meanwhile, Adriana and Mr. Saint Laurent arrived at the station, looking a bit bewildered by the chaotic swarm of reporters. They were ushered in quickly, and Matthew greeted them with a relieved smile.

“Thank you both so much for coming,” he said, leading them towards the back where they’d give their statement. “This is a big help. Claire’s truly innocent, but it’s been a mess.”

Adriana placed a comforting hand on his shoulder. “We know, Matthew. We’re here for her. Let’s get her out.”

After what felt like an eternity, Claire was finally led out of her cell, and she practically flew into Adriana’s arms, her usually composed face softening as she thanked her profusely. “I’m so sorry for dragging you into this,” Claire murmured, her eyes filled with genuine gratitude.

Adriana smiled kindly. “Don’t apologize, dear. Now, let’s get you out of here and back to somewhere safe.”

Adriana put a reassuring arm around Claire, and they made their way to the car waiting outside. But, naturally, the press was in full force as they stepped outside, cameras flashing in their faces. Journalists shouted questions, asking if Claire was guilty, if she had a comment, and whether she was planning to go to court.

Ignoring the relentless barrage of questions, Claire simply followed Adriana and Mr. Saint Laurent’s lead, making a beeline for the car. Once inside, she let out a heavy sigh, her shoulders slumping as the stress finally started to hit her.

“This is crazy.”