New beginning: Billionaire love story

Chapter 14, He will be mine

Alex woke up to an empty side of the bed. He headed downstairs and found Lisa in the kitchen, cooking breakfast. He wrapped his arms around her from behind, greeting her. "Good morning, babe." He planted a soft kiss on her cheek.

However, Lisa's response was muted, her mind preoccupied with the lingering scent of alcohol on Alex's clothes. Instead of

reciprocating his greeting, she hummed softly.

Sensing something amiss, Alex pulled away slightly and leaned against the counter, studying her expression.

"Is everything okay, Lisa? Are you feeling alright, or is it your stitches bothering you?"

Lisa sighed, turning off the stove and facing him with crossed arms. "I'm fine," she replied curtly, her tone chilly. Noticing the change in her demeanor, Alex pressed further. "Why the cold tone, then?"

Lisa hesitated before speaking up. "Where did you really go last night?"

Alex hesitated for a moment, then replied, "I told you last night, that I was bust at the office."

Lisa shook her head, her expression firm. "You're lying, Alex. Your clothes reek of alcohol"

Alex's heart sank as he realized he had been caught. He paused, searching for the right words.

Finally, he admitted, "I did go to a club and had a few drinks, but that's all. I didn't do anything wrong.

Lisa looked at him sadly, her disappointment evident. "Why lie to me, Alex? You could have just told me the truth."

Alex ran a hand through his hair, feeling guilty. "I know, and I'm sorry. I just didn't want to disappoint you. I made a promise, and I couldn't keep it"

Lisa stepped closer, wrapping her arms around him in a comforting embrace. "You can tell me anything, Alex. I'll try to understand."

Alex returned the bug gratefully, feeling a mix of relief and remorse.

"I'm going to continue cooking breakfast. You go freshen up."

"Yeah"

Lisa can't help but glanced at Claire and Alex wedding portrait

She stood in front of the wedding portrait of Alex and Claire, a determined look in her eyes. The portrait hasn't been taken down

"I will make Alex mine," she whispered to herself, her determination fueling her ambition. She promised herself that she would make Alex marry her, no matter what it took.

A week had passed since Claire had given her team the task of brainstorming innovative ideas for Cortex 2.0. She sat in her office, a sense of excitement bubbling within her as she prepared for the upcoming meeting. Claire had high hopes for her team; she knew they were capable of coming up with groundbreaking concepts.

As she gathered her thoughts, her secretary Sandra entered the room. "Good morning, Claire. Are you ready for the meeting?"

Claire nodded with a smile. "Absolutely, Sandra. Let's head to the meeting room

Together, they walked to the meeting room where the team had already assembled. Claire greeted everyone warmly, her eyes gleaming with anticipation.

Good morning, everyone. I hope you've had a productive week brainstorming ideas for Cortex 2.0," Claire began as she took her seat at the head of the table-

"I'm excited to see what each team has come up with

Once everyone was settled, Claire made an announcement. "I'll be randomly calling out team names, so be prepared to present your ideas. No excuses."

The meeting stretched on for over two hours as each team presented their innovative concepts. It was a serious and focused atmosphere, with everyone paying close attention.

After the last presentation, Claire applauded the teams. "Fantastic work, everyone. Your Ideas are truly inspiring and creative. I'm proud to have such talented and hardworking employees "

She informed them that the winner would be announced in a few days" time and then dismissed the meeting Claire was the first to leave the room, heading back to her office. Once inside, she opened the team presentations once more, reviewing each idea carefully. She wanted to make an informed decision when choosing the winning concept.

Claire instructed her secretary to call jack. The only person she currently trust in the company.

She also called Matthew since technology is also his thing and his opinion matters to Claire.

Shortly after, Jack arrived, followed by Matthew fifteen minutes later..

Jack took a seat and asked, "Claire, why did you call me here?"

Claire motioned for Matthew to sit as well. "I wanted to discuss the presentations with both of you. I value your insights and opinions and since you Jack, are the only person I trust in this company."

The atmosphere in Claire's office was tense as she, Jack, and Matthew discussed the earlier presentation from the team to choose the winner. They were deep in conversation when Robert burst in, his irritation palpable "What's going on here?" Robert demanded, his eyes darting between the three of them.

Claire raised her eyebrows at Robert's sudden entrance. "I'm sure you know the basics of knocking, Robert? What brings you here?""

"I heard that earlier who held a meeting for the new software."

"Yes, and?"

"And you didn't consult with me first when you decided to announce it?"

"It has started a week ago, Robert and today I will choose the winner who will be leading this project." "Don't you remember who I am, Claire? I am still a part of the Metacortex corporation, and you left me out. Claire sighed. "You are but what role do you play in this company huh?"

"Then what is Jack doing here?"

"He is the vice president; his opinion matters the most in this company. Aren't you forgetting that?" Robert's eyes then shifted to Matthew, a man he didn't recognize. "And who is he? He's not even an employee." Claire smiled faintly. "Matthew is my advisor. He helps me make decisions and he is good with technology." Robert's frustration grew, but he tried to keep his anger in check. "I still need to be included in these discussions."

Claire sighed, feeling exasperated. "Fine, Robert. You can join us. But keep up because this project is going to be significant, unlike the past three years with no development."

Robert bristled at Claire's mocking tone, reminded that he used to be the CEO before Claire replaced him.

He clenched his jaw, hiding his true intentions.

"I'll keep up." Robert replied curtly, taking a seat at the couch.

As the meeting progressed, Claire outlined the plans for the upcoming project, emphasizing the need for innovation and progress. Jack and Matthew chimed in with their insights and opinions Robert listened attentively, but his mind was elsewhere. He couldn't shake off the feeling of being sidelined.

Once the meeting concluded, Robert lingered behind, waiting for a chance to speak with Claire alone.

Matthew noticed Robert staying behind. He made eye contact with Claire asking her if he should stay in case something bad happened.

Claire shook his head.

She can deal with Robert.

"Robert, why are you still here?"

"I just wanted to say that I appreciate you letting me join the meeting," Robert began, trying to sound diplomatic.

Claire mentally rolled her eyes.

What an actor!

"And I'm sorry for barging in earlier. I will try to be professional next time."

"Of course, Robert."

If only Claire knew what he was plotting behind the scenes.

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