Don’t Fall for the Billionaire Lover novel Chapter 805

The grand hall was buzzing with guests, laughter, and chatter filling the air. Claire was there, mingling effortlessly with the crowd. By her side was Barrett, her younger lover—everyone knew about their relationship, but no one dared to speak about it openly. He was always just a step behind Claire, like a shadow.

It wasn't long before Barrett made his way over to Connor, a glass of red wine in hand. "Don't you think you're being a bit too heartless towards your sister, Chloe?" he asked, his tone casual yet pointed.

Connor barely glanced at him, "Are you defending her now?"

Barrett smirked, a hint of self-mockery in his expression. "Defend her? I don't even have the right to stand up for Ms. Claire. But seeing her, a woman at the peak of her life, being cornered by her own brother... it stirs something in me."

Connor chuckled, a low, mocking sound. "She's not at rock bottom yet. You're jumping the gun on the sympathy."

"Connor, do you really want to push Ms. Claire to the edge? Is that what it takes for you to back off?"

Connor leaned in, curiosity piqued. "Didn't peg you for someone who'd care so deeply for my sister. You're just her kept toy, aren't you? Or is there more to it?"

Barrett's eyes were steady. "Ms. Claire has been a beacon in my life. I'd never turn my back on her."

Connor laughed again, but it was laced with scorn. "Don't kid yourself. You're just a replacement in her eyes, aren't you?"

Barrett knew it all too well. His resemblance to Claire’s first love when he was on stage was the reason she kept him close. When he first started in the industry, he was at the mercy of cruel investors. Claire had been the one to pull him out of that nightmare.

Over the years, she had treated him with kindness and even negotiated with Connor to secure his safety, trading assets as a bargaining chip. He owed her everything. Growing up in an orphanage, he had been bullied and overlooked. It was only with Claire that he felt seen and valued. She wasn't just a lover or sponsor; she was a mentor, almost a mother figure like Chloe.