New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 34 Unexpected package

The next day, as the clock struck noon, a knock echoed through Alex's penthouse. Annalise's painting, the one he had bid on during the charity event, had arrived. Two burly men maneuvered the large artwork through the doorway, their careful steps ensuring no harm befell the valuable piece.

Lisa, descending the stairs elegantly, arched an eyebrow as she took in the scene. The arrival of such a grand painting was an unusual occurrence in their home "What is all this?" she inquired; her curiosity piqued.

Alex, standing nearby with a sense of anticipation, turned to face Lisa. "It's the painting I bid on last night at the charity event. Annalise painting, remember?" he explained, with a hint of excitement in his voice

Lisa nodded, not particularly invested in the world of art. "Ah, that painting. Looks nice," she remarked before continuing on her way to the kitchen, her attention shifting to other matters.

Meanwhile, Alex directed the two men to carefully hang the painting in the designated spot he had prepared. With practiced hands, they secured it in place, ensuring it was perfectly aligned and showcased in all its glory. Thank you, gentlemen," Alex said appreciatively as the men completed their task and prepared to depart.

Once alone, Alex approached the covered painting, his anticipation growing. With a swift motion, he pulled down the cover, revealing the captivating artwork beneath. The vibrant colors and intricate details of Annalise's creation came to life, filling the room with a sense of artistic brilliance.

"It is even more stunning up close," Alex mused to himself, his gaze lingering on the painting's captivating beauty.

Alex couldn't help but feel a surge of satisfaction as he gazed at the painting. The memory of the intense bidding war between himself and Claire flashed through his mind.

*£50,000."

"£75,000,"

"£80,000."

"£100,000.

"Going once,

eding twice sold to bidder number 78 for £100,000,"

If only Alex could see her reaction as it can be a sight to see.

It had been a moment of competition and excitement, each bid fueling his determination to win.

Weirdly enough, a slight smirk tugged at Alex's lips as he admired the painting. It wasn't just about the artwork itself; it was about the victory, the feeling of accomplishment that came with winning the bidding at £100,000. As Lisa returned to the living room, sipping on her juice, her curiosity piqued once again.

why

is the painting here? I thought you mentioned last night that you'd place it in one of your hotels," she remarked, her tone casual yet curious.

Without turning to face her, Alex replied calmly, "I changed my mind. I decided I want this painting for myself, here in the penthouse."

Lisa shrugged in response, her interest fleeting as she glanced at the artwork briefly.

"Okay, suit yourself," she commented before settling onto the nearby couch, her attention already drifting to other thoughts.

Alex smiled to himself, content with his decision to keep the painting in his penthouse. It was not just a piece of art but a symbol of his victory in the bidding war with Claire.

In Claire's penthouse, the soft hum, of her phone call was interrupted by a sudden knock at the door. Setting aside her conversation, she rose to answer it. Two men stood outside, holding a large, carefully wrapped painting. "Are you Claire Peterson?" one of the men asked, his tone polite.

Claire nodded, curiosity piqued. "Yes, that is me. What is it?"

"We have a package for you from Liz," the other man explained, gesturing to the painting they held.

Claire's eyebrows lifted in surprise. She wasn't expecting anything especially since she didn't bid any painting last night other than Annalise, but she lost the bid to Alex

"Please, come in," she invited them, opening the door wider.

her bid her goodbye

The men entered and carefully placed the painting near the couch as instructed by Claire. Once they were done, they bid and left, leaving Claire alone with the unexpected gift.

With a sense of curiosity and anticipation, Claire removed the wrapping covering the painting. Her expression transformed from curiosity to astonishment as she took in the artwork before her.

It was her mum's painting that Liz showcase last night.

Did package is clearly unexpected to Claire.

Stunned by the unexpected gesture, Claire crouched down to get a closer look. As she admired the details of the painting, her eyes fell upon a small envelope tucked discreetly at the bottom corner.

Picking up the envelope, Claire carefully opened it and retrieved the letter inside. It was from Liz, expressing her gratitude for Claire's help and mentioning how happy the children were Claire's heart warmed at the kind words.

The letter continued, explaining that the children wanted Claire to have the painting as a token of their appreciation, assuring her that they didn't mind parting with it.

A soft smile graced Claire's features as she read the heartfelt letter. She felt touched by the thoughtfulness of Liz and the children. Making a mental note to give Liz a heartfelt phone call later, Claire sat down on the floor and gazed at the painting for what seemed like hours.

Matthew arrived at Claire's penthouse, intending to deliver some news about her parents' grave site. However, his steps faltered as he entered, finding Claire seated on the floor, seemingly lost in thought

"Hey, Claire, what are you doing down there?" Matthew inquired; his voice filled with concern as he noticed Claire's introspective gaze. Claire turned to him, a hint of melancholy in her eyes. "Oh, hey, Matt Liz sent me my mother's last painting," she explained, gesturing towards the artwork beside her.

Matthew joined her on the floor, studying the painting with genuine interest. "Is this the exact painting Liz showcase last night?"

Claire nodded.

"Wow, it is more beautiful up-close." he commented, admiring the intricate details of the artwork

A soft smile touching her lips. "Yeah, it does."

"Why did Liz send you this?"

"She said it is a token of gratitude and it is the least she can do for me considering it is my mother's last painting."

After a moment of shared appreciation for the painting, Claire turned her attention back to Matthew.

"Anyway, what did you want to tell me?"

Matthew's expression turned serious as he recalled the purpose of his visit. "Right, I wanted to let you know that your parents' gravesite has been relocated to Highgate Cemetery." Claire's gaze softened with gratitude. "Thank you for letting me know, Matt. I appreciate it."Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDrâ/ma.O(r)g!

"It's no problem at all," Matthew replied, offering her a reassuring smile. "Whenever you are ready, I can accompany you to visit their resting place."

Claire nodded, her voice tinged with determination. "I will definitely go soon."

"Shame that you didn't get Annalise painting."

Claire sighed. "I didn't expect the bidder to bid so high."

"£100,000, it is all money. I wonder who the person is."

A slight smirked etched on her lips. "You will be surprised."

"You Imow the person is." Matthew stated that leaved no argument. "Apparently, I do."

Chapter 34 Unexpected package

"Who is it?"

A mischievous glint spark in Claire's eyes. She decided otherwise to not tell Matthew. "Secret.