New beginning: Billionaire love story (Claire and Alex) novel Chapter 486

The grand hall of the jewelry exhibition buzzed with excitement, the soft murmur of conversations interwoven with the clinking of glasses and the occasional laughter. In the center of the room, a pedestal draped in rich velvet held a stunning ring, its gemstone glittering under the carefully positioned lights.

Sophia, the host of the evening, stood beside it, a confident smile gracing her lips as she gathered the guests' attention.

"Ladies and gentlemen," Sophia's voice rang clear and poised, "thank you for joining us this evening. We are honored to present a truly remarkable piece, featuring a gemstone so rare, it has been coveted by collectors worldwide. This ring, adorned with the Orpheus Stone, is one of a kind."

Gasps and murmurs rippled through the crowd as they moved closer to get a better look at the ring. The gemstone, a mesmerizing deep blue with flecks of gold, seemed to hold the cosmos within it. Claire Peterson stood among the guests, her eyes fixed on the ring, captivated by its beauty.

Next to her, Talia leaned in and whispered, "Claire, that stone is to die for. Look at it. It’s like it holds the secrets of the universe."

Claire smiled, nodding in agreement. "It is stunning," she admitted, her gaze never wavering from the ring.

"You should buy it," Talia suggested, her voice playful but sincere. "It would suit you perfectly, and you do love collecting unique pieces."

Claire chuckled, her interest piqued. She did have a penchant for acquiring rare and valuable jewelry, pieces that made her feel powerful and unique. Owning the Orpheus Stone would certainly add to her already impressive collection. She was about to inquire further when Sophia's voice broke through her thoughts.

"And now," Sophia continued, her smile broadening, "I am pleased to announce that this magnificent piece already has an owner."

Claire’s brow furrowed slightly in surprise. She hadn’t anticipated the ring being spoken for so quickly. Her curiosity deepened as she leaned closer to Talia. "I wonder who it is," she mused aloud.

Sophia gestured towards a figure at the edge of the crowd. "Please, join me in welcoming the owner of this extraordinary ring, Mr. Alexander Harris."

Claire's expression shifted from curiosity to shock, her brows shooting up and then knitting into a frown. Alexander Harris. The name echoed in her mind, stirring a mixture of emotions. She had not expected him to be involved, let alone to have secured such a rare piece.

Questions swirled in her mind—how had Alexander acquired the ring so quickly? Did he have a prior connection with Sophia?

Her musings were interrupted by the sudden warmth of a hand at her waist, making her startle slightly. She turned quickly, prepared to confront whoever it was, but her expression softened into a smile when she saw Adrian.

He grinned, raising his hands in mock surrender. "Easy there," he chuckled. "I didn’t mean to scare you."

Claire playfully slapped his arm. "Don’t sneak up on me like that," she admonished, though her tone was light.

Adrian leaned down, pressing a kiss to her temple. "Sorry," he murmured. "You seemed lost in thought."

Before Claire could respond, Talia chimed in, her voice teasing. "You two are adorable. You make me miss Christian even more."

Claire rolled her eyes, but a smile tugged at her lips. "Well, maybe you should bring him along next time," she suggested.

Adrian, meanwhile, glanced at the ring and the gathering crowd. "What did I miss?" he asked, his brow furrowing slightly.

Claire sighed, tilting her head towards the pedestal. "That ring, with the rare gemstone, the Orpheus Stone. It’s already been claimed."

Adrian raised an eyebrow, clearly surprised. "By who?"

Claire took a sip of her champagne before answering, "Alexander Harris."

Adrian’s frown mirrored Claire’s. "Alexander? How did that happen?"

"That’s what I’d like to know," Claire muttered, her eyes narrowing as she watched Alexander near the pedestal, receiving applause from the crowd.

Adrian followed her gaze. "Think he’s buying their enthusiasm?"

Claire shrugged. "Wouldn’t put it past him."