New beginning: Billionaire love story

Alexander walked alongside Claire as she turned her back on Andre. She kept her posture poised, but internally, she was seething. The audacity of Andre to introduce himself as her relative to the guests was beyond infuriating. It only reinforced her belief that his story was fabricated, but the question still lingered -who was this man, and why was he so persistent in haunting her life?

Alexander stole a glance at Claire, noticing the way her jaw tightened. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice low enough so only she could hear.

"Yes," Claire replied curtly, her tone clipped and cold. She didn't look at him, keeping her eyes fixed straight ahead.

Alexander knew that tone all too well. It meant Claire was anything but fine. Whoever this Andre was, his presence had clearly rattled her. But now was not the time to press her with questions. The opening ceremony was only minutes away, and they needed to focus on the event.

Trying to offer some form of reassurance, Alexander reached out and placed a hand on Claire's shoulder, causing her to stop in her tracks. She turned to him with a slight frown, clearly irritated by the interruption. "If you're not feeling well, I can handle the press and the speeches," he said, keeping his voice gentle but firm.

Claire shook her head. "I'm fine. There's nothing to worry about. Whatever is happening with Andre doesn't matter. I'll do my part in explaining the hotel's technology and the robotic systems as planned." Alexander studied her for a moment, debating whether to argue, but he knew it would be pointless. When Claire took that cold, professional tone, it meant she had already made up her mind. He nodded. "Whatever makes you comfortable.'

Claire resumed her walk, heading towards one of the tables, where she grabbed a glass of wine and downed it in one swift gulp. Alexander sighed and rubbed the back of his neck. Just as he was about to turn away, Christian approached him.

"What's up with Claire? She looks like she's ready to stab someone," Christian remarked, nodding towards her direction.

Before Christian could say anything further, Alexander placed a hand on his shoulder. "I need you to keep an eye on Andre.

Christian frowned. "Who the hell is Andre?"

Alexander's gaze flickered toward the man in question. Andre was standing amongst a small group of guests, effortlessly engaging them in conversation, as if he belonged there. "That guy."

Christian followed Alexander's gaze, narrowing his eyes as he observed Andre laughing and sipping his drink. "Him? What did he do?"

"That's what I'd like to know. But more importantly, I don't recall inviting anyone by that name," Alexander admitted. "I have a bad feeling about this guy."

Christian tilted his head, considering his friend's words before nodding. "Alright, I'll get security on him. Do you want him removed?"

Alexander hesitated. Claire had reacted strongly to Andre's presence, but she hadn't asked for him to be thrown out. Perhaps she wanted to handle it in her own way. "Not yet. Just keep him in your sights. If anything suspicious happens, I want to know immediately."

Christian gave a casual salute. "Got it."

With that, he turned and made his way towards the security personnel stationed around the venue.

As the clock ticked down to the ceremony, the atmosphere in the grand ballroom shifted. The murmur of excited conversations filled the air as guests took their seats. At the front, a sleek, modern stage was set up, illuminated by soft golden lights. The MC stepped forward, tapping the microphone.

"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the grand opening of the newest addition to the Harris Hotel legacy!" His enthusiastic voice carried across the room, prompting a round of applause. "Tonight, we celebrate not just luxury, but innovation. This hotel is unlike any other in the Harris chain, incorporating cutting-edge technology to enhance the guest experience. And now, it is my pleasure to introduce the visionary behind this project-Mr. Alexander Harris!"

The applause grew louder as Alexander ascended the stage,

buttoning his suit jacket. He gave a charismatic smile as he took the microphone. "Good evening,

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everyone. First, I'd like to thank all of you for joining us on this special night. The Harris brand has always been synonymous with elegance and comfort, but tonight, we take a step further. We are merging technology with luxury to create an experience like no other."

Claire clapped along with the rest of the guests, but her focus was divided. Her eyes kept scanning the room, searching for Andre. She spotted him at one of the side tables, watching the stage with a small, knowing smile. The sight of him made her stomach churn. Who was he, really? And what was he after? Meanwhile, Alexander continued his speech. "This hotel is equipped with Al-assisted concierge services, voice-activated room controls, and an advanced security system that ensures the safety of our guests. But instead of telling you, I'd rather show you."

He gestured towards Claire. "And for that, I'd like to introduce someone who has played an integral role in making this vision a reality-Ms. Claire Peterson.'

A fresh wave of applause followed as Claire rose from her seat and made her way to the stage. Her face remained composed as she took the microphone from Alexander.noveldrama

"Thank you, Alexander," she said smoothly. "As he mentioned, this hotel is built on the foundation of innovation. Every aspect, from the design to the service, has been carefully structured to provide efficiency without compromising luxury.'

She pressed a button on a small

remote, and a holographic projection

appeared behind her, displaying the

hotel's robotic assistant. "This

system ensures that every guest's needs are met with precision. Whether it's room service, security, or simple navigation, the Al is programmed to handle it all seamlessly."

The crowd murmured in amazement as the hologram demonstrated the various functions of the robotic concierge. Claire stole another glance at Andre. His expression hadn't changed-still that same amused smirk. It unnerved her.

After wrapping up her speech, Claire handed the microphone back to the MC. Alexander leaned in slightly, lowering his voice. "You okay?"

Claire nodded stiffly. "Yes and please stop asking otherwise people will notice."

Alexander didn't push her. Instead, he turned to the guests. "With that, let's officially open the doors to the future of hospitality! At the end of the night, there will be a fireworks show as well as introducing the hotel's name. But for now, please enjoy the rest of the evening."

The room erupted into cheers as waiters emerged, serving champagne and hors d'oeuvres. The formalities were over, and now it was time for celebration.

As the night went on, Alexander noticed Christian moving through the crowd, his eyes sharp and observant. He approached him quietly.

"Anything?" he asked.

Christian shook his head. "Nothing suspicious so far, but he's definitely watching Claire."

Alexander exhaled slowly. "I figured. Keep him in your sights."

Christian nodded and walked away, blending seamlessly into the crowd.

Claire turned, locking eyes with Andre from across the room. He lifted his glass in a silent toast, a smirk

tugging at his lips. Claire narrowed her eyes.

Who are you, and what do you want from me?