No Divorce? The Billionaire's Love Chase! novel Chapter 540

For her own birthday party, she had simply picked a dress from her closet—an elegant V-neck with mesh paneling. The black, fitted top contrasted with the dark gray mesh skirt, a blend of sensuality, romance, and grace.

Her makeup was light today, and her long hair was left down in natural, loose waves without any particular styling.

Her entire look, from her outfit to her aura, was understated.

Rock Sayer, dressed stylishly and looking sharp, was particularly eye-catching standing next to her.

He glanced at Claudia's outfit and said with a droop of his eyelids, "Claudia, isn't this look a bit too low-key?"

Claudia gave Rock Sayer a look, clearly not in the mood.

"I probably haven't been sleeping well these past few days," she explained. "I'm feeling a bit low on energy, just lazy."

Hugh, standing nearby, leaned in and comforted her in a low voice, "'That incident' is over. There won't be any surprises. Don't overthink it."

Claudia lowered her head and gave a slight nod.

"You go on and mingle. I'm taking the little one to the restroom."

Hugh had arrived with his son a full hour early and had been keeping Claudia company.

Seeing guests start to stream in, Hugh used his son as an excuse to give Claudia some space.

As friends and family arrived to celebrate her birthday, Claudia shook her head, trying her best to rally her spirits.

But she hadn't expected Marcia to come.

Marcia, as sharp and professional as ever, handed a gift to Claudia. "Miss Watkins, I hope you won't kick me out for showing up uninvited."

Claudia accepted the gift with a thank you. "I'm pleasantly surprised."

The two women shared a smile.

Marcia couldn't help but praise her, "Dr. Watkins, you are the most special and outstanding woman I've ever met."

Claudia, however, felt she still had much to learn from Marcia. This woman was smooth, shrewd, and clear-headed.

Even more surprising were the number of guests Claudia didn't recognize at all.

Claudia pulled Rock Sayer aside. "Did you invite these people?"

Rock Sayer shook his head. "They probably see you have powerful backers and are shamelessly trying to get on your good side."

Claudia didn't argue.

The people in this circle understood how to curry favor better than anyone. Friendships were always weighed by status.

They came to her birthday party to be seen by people like Cyrus and Hugh, hoping to latch onto a connection.

If she had no ties to these powerful men, she would be ruthlessly trampled into the mud.

As it approached eight o'clock, her parents reminded Claudia that almost everyone had arrived and it was time to cut the cake.

Claudia stared at the revolving glass door, her eyes hesitant. "Mom, let's wait a little longer."