New beginning: Billionaire love story

Eligos leaned against a pillar, his dark eyes fixed on Claire as she stared at Andre, her expression unreadable. He was quite satisfied with how Andre had executed his role so far. From the very beginning, Eligos's plan had been simple yet effective-his goal was to embarrass Claire in front of her colleagues and important guests, making them question whether Claire Peterson was truly someone they should trust.

With a smirk, Eligos slipped a hand into his pocket and pulled out his phone. He typed a quick message and sent it to Andre, a subtle reminder of what was supposed to happen next.

Across the room, Andre felt his phone vibrate in his pocket. He hesitated for a moment before taking it out and reading the message. His eyes flickered with uncertainty. He had no idea Eligos was in the same room, watching his every move. Andre sighed quietly, realizing he had no choice but to proceed with the next phase of the plan.

From his position, Eligos observed Andre's reaction with amusement. He picked up a glass of champagne from a passing waiter and took a slow sip. "This," he muttered under his breath, "will be a good show to watch."

Alexander's parents approached him, their expressions a mixture of pride and curiosity.

"Congratulations, son," Michael Harris said, clasping Alexander's shoulder firmly. "I must say, we didn't expect you to take such a different approach with this hotel."

"Indeed," Joan Harris chimed in, giving her son a scrutinizing look. "The Harris Hotel brand has always been synonymous with elegance. That was the whole point of your grandfather's vision."

Alexander exhaled through his nose but kept his expression neutral. "I know what Grandfather wanted, but times are changing. Quantum Haven is meant to be different. A fusion of technology and luxury. If we don't evolve, we'll be left behind."

Michael studied his son for a moment before nodding approvingly. "Brave of you," he admitted.

Before Alexander could respond, Claire-who had been standing next to him, engaged in a separate conversation-felt someone's gaze on her. She turned her head slightly and found herself face-to-face with Michael Harris.

Michael offered her a polite nod before extending his hand. "Ms. Peterson," he greeted.

Claire maintained a composed demeanor, shaking his hand firmly. "Mr. Harris."

"Congratulations on the robot demonstrations. Quite the spectacle."

Claire smiled slightly. "Thank you. There's still a lot of work to be done, but I appreciate your words." Michael's lips curled into a subtle smirk. "I imagine Metacortex's reputation will soar even higher after this. I suppose I should also thank you for agreeing to work with Alexander."

Alexander rolled his eyes at his father's pointed remark, but before he could retort, Claire chuckled lightly. "I won't lie-it was tough at first," she admitted. "We have very different approaches to business. But somehow, we've managed to make it work.'

Joan, who had been silently observing, folded her arms. "A miracle," she muttered under her breath. Alexander ignored the comment and glanced at his watch. The fireworks were set to begin in just a few minutes.

With practiced ease, he made his way toward the stage and picked up the microphone. "Ladies and gentlemen," he addressed the crowd, "thank you for joining us tonight. In a few moments, we'll be heading outside for the fireworks display. But before that—" He gestured toward the large drapes covering the new hotel's name. "It's time for the grand reveal."

The crowd murmured in anticipation, some pulling out their phones to record the moment. Claire stood near Alexander, arms crossed as she watched him. He leaned slightly toward her and whispered, "Ready?"

She turned her gaze to him with an unimpressed look. "For what?"

"The fireworks, Claire. Try to act a little more excited."

Claire arched a brow. "It's just fireworks, Alexander. I'm not five years old."

Alexander smirked. "You sure about that?"

Claire sighed, shaking her head. "Just pull the drapes, Alexander."

Alexander chuckled before stepping forward and grabbing hold of the cord. With a swift motion, he pulled, unveiling the hotel's name. Bright lights illuminated the bold letters:

QUANTUM HAVEN

The crowd erupted into applause. Guests stood from their seats, clapping and murmuring about the choice of name. The modern, futuristic design of the signage reflected the hotel's innovation.

Claire took a step back, taking in the name. Quantum Haven. A departure from the traditional Harris branding.

The Master of Ceremonies stepped up beside Alexander and smiled. "And now, Mr. Harris, if you would do us the honor of launching the fireworks."noveldrama

Alexander grinned and stepped toward the ceremonial launch button. Just as he was about to press it, Andre-who had been weaving his way through the crowd-suddenly stumbled forward.

With calculated precision, he bumped into Alexander.

A collective gasp rippled through the audience as the sudden impact caused Alexander's hand to slam down on the button at an awkward angle.

A sharp whoosh filled the air as the firework misfired-

-straight into the hotel's signage.

The "H" in HAVEN exploded in a burst of sparks.

Screams and panicked shouts

erupted as small embers rained down. Security personnel immediately sprang into action, some rushing toward the stage while others moved to ensure guests were safe.

Alexander staggered slightly, his eyes widening in disbelief as he looked up at the damage. "What the "

Claire, who had been standing nearby, immediately turned toward Andre. Her sharp gaze narrowed, her instincts screaming that this was no accident.

Andre, looking appropriately panicked, held up his hands. "I-I didn't mean to! Someone pushed me!" Claire didn't buy it. Not for a second.

"Claire watch out!" she heard Alexander call her name. She turned to him and saw him lunged towards Claire and they both ended up on the floor.

Her heart beats faster, eyes wide clearly didn't expect something like would happened. The letter "H" fell down and Alexander look back to the crowd.

He stood up and called Christian. "I need you to take care of the guest. Makes sure no one gets hurt." Christian nodded and got to action.

Alex turned towards his secretary,

his voice firm despite the situation. "Check the electrical system-make sure nothing else catches fire. And get the emergency team ready, just in case."

"Will do sir." She hurriedly contact the hotel staff.

Claire who is still on the floor still couldn't comprehend what is happening.

It is a mess. The opening night is ruin. All because of one person.

Alexander help Claire up in which she accept his help. However she couldn't focus on what Alexander is saying as her mind is racing as well as her eyes scanning the crowd to find Andre.

"Andre." She whisper.

He frowned hearing it. "What?"

"Andre. He caused this." She turned back to Alex. "I need to find him."

Meanwhile, outside the commotion, Eligos stood in the shadows, swirling the champagne in his glass. A satisfied smirk played on his lips.

He had planned for a disaster. And now, he had the perfect opportunity to watch Claire scramble to maintain control.

Eligos chuckled softly to himself, raising his glass in a silent toast.

"Let's see how you handle this one, Claire."

The night was far from over.