New beginning: Billionaire love story

"She's stunning," another voice agreed. "I didn't know she could model!"

clung to her curves-flowed around her like liquid silver, catching the light with every step.

Claire pretended not to hear, keeping her eyes focused straight ahead. She moved with as much grace as she could muster, trying to channel the calm elegance of the models who'd walked before her. The dress Talia had chosen for her a sleek, shimmering gown that As she reached the end of the runway, Claire turned gracefully, her movements precise and measured. She could feel the eyes of the audience on her, could hear the whispers, and see the cameras flashing wildly. It was surreal, almost like being in a dream. She made her way back up the runway, finally disappearing behind the curtains with a sigh of relief.

"See?" Talia was waiting for her, grinning from ear to ear. "What did I tell you? You were perfect!"

Claire let out a shaky laugh, her nerves finally beginning to settle. "I can't believe I just did that. I thought I was going to trip over my own feet!"

"You were flawless," Talia insisted, giving her a quick hug. "Thank you, Claire. You have no idea how much this means to me."

"Anything for you, Talia," Claire said, smiling. She meant it, too. Talia had been there for her through thick and thin, and Claire would do anything to support her best friend's dreams.

The models began to gather backstage, preparing for the final walk. Claire took her place among them, feeling a bit more at ease now that the hardest part was over. Together, they made their way back onto the runway, forming a line in the center of the stage as the lights dimmed.

The spotlight shifted, illuminating Talia as she stepped onto the stage. The audience erupted into applause, cheering and clapping as Talia made her way to the center, her cheeks flushed with pride and happiness. Claire clapped along, feeling a swell of pride for her friend. This was Talia's moment, and she deserved every bit of praise.

Talia scanned the crowd, her eyes shining as she waved. Then she spotted Claire and, without a second thought, grabbed her hand, pulling her into the spotlight.

"Come on, you!" Talia laughed, her eyes twinkling. "Take a bow with me."

Claire blinked, surprised, but she didn't resist. Together, they faced the audience, bowing as the applause grew even louder. Claire felt a wave of warmth spread through her-it felt good, being a part of something like this, seeing her best friend so happy.

As they straightened up, Claire was surprised to see Adrian making his way toward them, a bouquet in his hand. He reached Claire, a warm smile on his face, and held out the flowers.

"For you, Claire," he said, his voice soft. "You were incredible out there."

Claire took the bouquet, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Thank you, Adrian," she said, smiling. "But really, it was all Talia's doing."

"Nonsense," Talia interjected, grinning. "You were amazing, Claire. I couldn't have asked for a better model."

Before Claire could respond, Adrian leaned in, pressing a light kiss to her cheek. The cameras went crazy, flashes going off like fireworks around them. Claire laughed, feeling a bit flustered but also oddly pleased.

"Well, I guess that's a wrap," Talia said, clapping her hands as the lights began to dim. "Thank you, everyone, for being here tonight!"

The audience applauded once more as the fashion show officially came to an end. Claire and Talia stepped back, letting the models have their moment as they made their final exit from the stage.

Backstage, the atmosphere was

electric, full of laughter and

congratulations. Claire found herself surrounded by people-designers, models, guests-all wanting to compliment her, to tell her how stunning she'd looked, how well

she'd done. It was overwhelming but

in the best way possible.

Models and crew members were mingling, exchanging hugs, and high-fives. In the midst of it all, Christian strode confidently with a bouquet of flowers in hand, his eyes scanning the crowd for a particular someone. He spotted Talia engaged in a lively conversation with Claire. With a grin on his face, he called out, "Talia!"

Talia's eyes lit up as she turned to

see Christian approaching. Her face broke into a delighted smile as he walked up to her and handed her the bouquet. "Congratulations!"

Christian said warmly. "You werenovelbin

fantastic tonight!"

Talia blushed, her cheeks turning a soft pink as she accepted the flowers. "Oh, Christian! I didn't think you'd make it. I'm so glad you're here!"

Christian chuckled and gave her a friendly pat on the shoulder. "Wouldn't miss it for the world. You were incredible. I had to be here to see it."

Claire, who had been watching the exchange with interest, decided it was time to join in. "Hey, Christian," she greeted with a smile. "I didn't expect to see you here either." Christian turned to Claire with a playful smirk. "Well, it's not every day I get to see a CEO strut her stuff on the runway. You looked pretty fabulous yourself, Claire." Claire rolled her eyes but couldn't hide the smile tugging at her lips. "Thanks. I guess it's good to know that my walk didn't make you cringe." Christian laughed. "Not at all. It was a great debut."

Claire's smile faltered slightly as she thought about the other person she had hoped not to run into tonight. "So, if you're here, that must mean Alex is too."

As if reading her thoughts, Christian shook his head. "Nope, Alex isn't here. He's holed up at his penthouse doing, well, God knows what."

Claire let out a sigh of relief. "Good. I can actually enjoy the rest of the night without worrying about running into him."

Christian's eyes sparkled with amusement. "Lucky you."

After the fashion show, the

festivities shifted to Adrian's

mansion, though in a different part of the house. Claire had changed

into her normal clothes, her makeup and hair freshly redone to give her a more relaxed look. She was chatting with Talia, who was still glowing from her success, when Mrs.

Armetta approached them with a

beaming smile.

"Ladies!" Mrs. Armetta called out, her Italian accent adding an extra touch of warmth to her words. "I just wanted to thank you both for making this fashion show happen, especially after everything that happened weeks ago." Talia and Claire exchanged pleased glances as Mrs. Armetta continued. "Talia, my dear, you were absolutely brilliant tonight. I have a feeling you might be a fantastic creative director in the future."

Talia's eyes widened in surprise, and she stammered, "Oh, Mrs. Armetta, really? I-well, thank you! That means so much to me."

Mrs. Armetta's gaze shifted to Claire, her eyes twinkling. "And Claire, your walk was absolutely amazing! I didn't expect you to be so graceful and professional. You surprised me!"

Claire laughed, a bit embarrassed but clearly pleased. "Well, I've been practicing, but I think I'll stick to being a CEO rather than a model."

The three of them laughed and Claire could say this fashion show is a success.