New beginning: Billionaire love story (Claire and Alex) novel Chapter 354

Adrian and Claire sat across from each other in the cozy, dimly lit restaurant. The warm glow of candles flickered on the table between them, casting soft shadows over their plates of delicious food.

The atmosphere was perfect—just quiet enough to make the space feel intimate but lively enough to make it fun. Claire was smiling more than she had in weeks and Adrian? Well, he was on cloud nine, soaking in every moment.

“This is easily the best meal I’ve had in a long time,” Claire said, taking another bite of her dessert. “And I’m not just talking about the food.”

Adrian grinned. “It’s the company, right? Gotta admit I wasn’t sure how this would go, but... I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself.”

Claire nodded, her eyes twinkling. “I am. This whole evening has been... really nice. And that joke earlier?” She let out a small laugh, remembering. “I can’t believe you actually told that one.”

Adrian chuckled. “Hey, it’s a classic! You’ve got to love a good dad joke.”

Claire shook her head, still laughing. “I didn’t see it coming, that’s for sure.”

The two of them continued talking and laughing, enjoying the relaxed vibe between them. The dinner felt easy, natural—like they’d known each other for years. And though there was a little tension, it wasn’t uncomfortable. It was more of the kind that made your heart race just a little faster, especially when you caught the other person looking at you a second too long.

When the meal came to an end, Adrian leaned back in his chair, looking completely content. “You ready to head out?”

Claire smiled, wiping her lips with her napkin. “Yeah, let’s go.”

They both stood and made their way out of the restaurant, the cool evening air hitting them as they stepped onto the street. Adrian stretched his arms and looked over at Claire. “You getting picked up, or...?”

Before he could finish his sentence, Claire grabbed his hand, stopping him in his tracks. Adrian blinked, clearly confused, and looked down at their joined hands before meeting her gaze.

“Claire? You okay? Do you need something?” His voice was soft but full of concern.

Claire hesitated for a second, then took a deep breath, her heart thumping loudly in her chest. This was it—the moment she’d been mulling over for days, the decision she’d lost sleep over. “Adrian, I’ve made my choice.”

Adrian tilted his head, his brow furrowed. “Your choice?” He sounded confused, which made sense—he’d told her to take her time, no pressure at all. “I told you, Claire, no rush. You don’t have to—”

But she cut him off, her voice more certain now. “I know, but... I’ve thought about it, and I don’t want to wait. I have feelings for you too, Adrian.”

Adrian’s eyes widened slightly, clearly not expecting this. “You do?”

Claire nodded, squeezing his hand a little tighter. “Yeah. And I’m not saying this because I feel bad that you told me how you felt, or because I feel pressured. I’m saying it because... I genuinely like you.”

The honesty in her voice was enough to make Adrian’s heart do a little flip. He stood there, kind of stunned, as Claire continued.