New beginning: Billionaire love story (Claire and Alex) novel Chapter 402

A week later, Claire was gearing up for Venus AMD's press release and exhibition. She and Matthew were in the back seat of her car, her fingers drumming a light rhythm on the seat, eyes glinting with a mix of mischief and curiosity.

“So,” Matthew asked, raising an eyebrow, “what are you expecting from today's show?”

Claire's lips curled into a smirk. “Honestly? I’m curious to see what Frank has cooked up this time. He's been going on and on about how Venus AMD is better than Metacortex.”

Matthew chuckled, shaking his head. “You mean, he’s been talking at everyone who’ll listen. The guy’s got an ego the size of this city. Think he will live up to his own hype?”

Claire let out a light laugh, looking amused. “Knowing Frank, he’s either going to pull off something impressive… or crash and burn spectacularly.”

“Wouldn’t that be something?” Matthew grinned. “At least if he fails, his press release can join the list of disastrous PR events.”

“And I am not the only one who’s press release got ruin.”

The two shared a chuckle, already imagining the possible mishaps waiting to unfold.

Meanwhile, at the venue, Frank was pacing backstage, exuding confidence—or, at least, trying to. He inspected the scene, eyes darting around to make sure everything was in order. His pride and joy—a state-of-the-art robot designed to make everyone forget about Metacortex—stood tall at center stage, surrounded by the tech team making last-minute tweaks.

One of the techies nudged his colleague. "Think it’ll hold up?"

The other tech shrugged, keeping his voice low. "Who knows? We’ve done our best, but that thing’s about as stable as a deck of cards in a windstorm."

A third tech, overhearing, muttered under his breath, “Honestly, who cares? Frank’s the worst CEO I’ve ever worked for. If it flops, maybe he’ll take the hint.”

Before they could go further, their team leader walked up, catching sight of Frank’s intense gaze. With a forced smile, he approached Frank.

“Everything’s set, sir,” he said, with a hint of hesitation. “We’re just… you know, doing some final touch-ups. Making sure there won’t be any, uh… glitches.”

Frank nodded, patting the leader on the back with a firm, almost crushing grip. “Good. Because if this goes well, there’s a bonus in it for you,” he said, his tone cool. “But if it doesn’t? Kiss your career goodbye.”

The leader’s face paled slightly, but he forced a smile and nodded. “Yes, sir. We’ll make sure it goes perfectly.”

Frank finally released him, and as he walked away, the leader took a deep breath. “Perfectly, he says,” he whispered to himself, exchanging a look of mild dread with his team.

Outside the venue, a buzz of excitement filled the air as cameras flashed and journalists crowded around, eager for a glimpse of the guests arriving. The doors opened, and Claire stepped out of the car, dressed in a sharp black suit that radiated confidence, power, and authority. The cameras flashed furiously as she gave the crowd a brief but graceful smile, acknowledging them with a slight nod.

Matthew exited behind her, keeping a watchful eye, ready to handle any unwelcome surprises. As they moved toward the entrance, a journalist pushed forward, eager for a quick quote.

“Claire! What are your expectations for tonight’s press release?” the reporter called, managing to capture Claire’s attention.

Claire chuckled lightly. “Oh, I’m just here to see what Frank’s come up with. Wishing him the best, of course,” she said, her eyes glinting with amusement.

Another journalist shouted, “Do you think Venus AMD can actually compete with Metacortex?”