New beginning: Billionaire love story

The next morning, Claire arrived at the new Harris Hotel, her sharp eyes scanning every corner of the grand lobby. Sandra followed closely behind, tablet in hand, ready to take notes on any final changes that needed to be addressed.

Today was important-Claire needed to ensure that everything was in order for the grand opening. The smallest flaw could lead to unnecessary complaints, and she wasn't about to let that happen.

She made her way toward the service area where the hotel's Al-powered robots were undergoing final testing. One of the staff members was inputting last-minute commands into the system, but Claire needed to see for herself that the technology was working smoothly. Just as she was about to run another test, Alexander appeared beside her, watching her closely before speaking.

"How was your sleep?" he asked casually, his tone laced with curiosity.

Claire didn't glance at him, keeping her focus on the robot. "Good," she answered simply.

Alexander raised an eyebrow at her vague response. "Good as in bad? Or good as in amazing? I need specifics, Claire. You did spend the night at the hotel, after all. If I'm going to use your experience for testimonials, you have to be honest."

Claire sighed, finally turning to face him. "The bed was comfortable. The lighting was just right-didn't hurt my eyes. The water pressure was good, and all the bathroom necessities were in place. The couch? Didn't spend much time on it, but it was fine. The small working table was a nice addition."

Alexander nodded and turned to his secretary, who was already typing the notes onto her tablet. "Got that?" he asked.

The secretary nodded. "Yes, sir."

Satisfied, Alexander turned back to Claire with a smirk. "See? That wasn't so hard, was it?"

Claire ignored his teasing and returned to inspecting the robot, making sure its movements were fluid. She wasn't going to waste any more time entertaining his amusement.

"Alright, what about the food?" Alexander pressed. "I need feedback on that too."

Claire thought for a moment. She had been so exhausted last night that she barely ate, but she did remember the pasta she had ordered. "The pasta was okay," she admitted. "But it was slightly overcooked, and the sauce was a bit too dry."

Alexander's expression didn't change, but he gave a short nod to his secretary, who promptly noted it down. "That can be fixed before the grand opening," he remarked. "Thanks for the feedback."

Claire folded her arms, hesitating for a moment before speaking again. "I noticed you changed your wine supplier."

Alexander looked at her, slightly surprised by the sudden shift in topic. "Yeah. The previous one I worked with for years is no longer my partner. Had to find a replacement.'

Claire raised her brows. "You mean Claudia Wright? The one who is crazy and obsessed with you?" Alexander rolled his eyes at the mention of Claudia Wright. "First, I agree she is quite crazy and second, she is not obsessed with me. She just wanted what is right on her behalf."noveldrama

"Right...I mean that women suddenly show up in front of me out of the blue." Claire says in a sarcastic way.

"Well, what's important is that I found a new supplier even though it was tough at first as in the man is quite stubborn with the profit and how much he will get. But I have settled the matters and we have agreed on the number. So, I can say that everything is going according to plan for now."

Claire nodded relief the decision that Alex made. Alexander had a way of handling business that didn't always align with her methods, but he got results.

Before shifting her focus back to the Al system, Claire turned back to Alexander. "Have you decided on a name for the hotel?"

Alexander chuckled, shaking his head. "You know, I've been going back and forth on it. It's a different theme from the Harris Hotels in London and other countries. The focus isn't just on elegance this time- it's technology and modern."

Claire tilted her head slightly. "Then why not something that reflects that?"

Alexander considered it for a moment before nodding slowly. "I've had a few ideas, but I want it to be perfect. Maybe something that combines tradition and innovation."

Claire gave a small smirk. "Sounds like you're stalling."

Alexander smirked back. "Maybe. But naming something like this isn't easy. Once it's out there, it sticks." Claire rolled her eyes slightly before glancing back at the robots. "Well, don't take too long. You don't want the press referring to it as 'the nameless hotel' on opening night."

Alexander chuckled. "Point taken." He then motioned toward the robot she was testing. "How's it looking?" Claire turned her attention back to the machine. "Smooth so far, but I want to run a few more tests. If even one of these things malfunctions during an important moment, it'll ruin the hotel's reputation before it even starts."

Alexander nodded. "Good. Keep at it."

Before Claire could focus on her work, she turned to Alex again. He feels her eyes on him as he glances at Claire and stares at her eyes with his eyebrows raised.

"What? Why are you looking at me? Is there something on my face?"

Claire shook her head. "No, I was just about to ask you regarding the guest list. Who are you inviting?" She couldn't help to maintain her curiosity.

"Why are you asking?"

Claire looked down at her Ipad and scrolled down the screen pretending to be busy. "Nothing. I just want to make sure that you have all the guest lists and that there will be no surprise guests or unwanted guests that will ruin the opening night. As you said," her eyes gaze back to Alex with seriousness. "everything needs to be perfect."

He couldn't help but notice the hint of seriousness in Claire's eyes. As if there is something she is scared

of or someone? He doesn't like to make assumptions but from her cold tone and serious gaze, Alex

couldn't help but feel there is something more to it.

But he can't ask her even if he wants

to cause the woman is still disliking him despite them having a civil conversation a few minutes ago however, Alexander doesn't want to go that far and be all curious since his focus is building his relationship back with Claire.

"Don't worry, I have asked my secretary to double-check the names and also the faces of the guests who

will be attending the opening night. I will make sure everything goes smoothly."

There's a slight tug on her chest. A weird feeling despite Alex's optimism everything will run well, Claire has the opposite feeling that it won't go well.

As Claire resumed her work, Sandra

approached, holding her tablet

close. "Everything on the upper floors has been checked. The last inspection team confirmed that all the VIP suites are set up. We just need final clearance from you on the tech and security systems."

Claire gave her an approving nod. "I'll handle it."

Alexander watched as Claire seamlessly shifted back into her work mode. He had always admired her efficiency, her ability to see every detail. But he also knew she carried more weight on her shoulders than she let on.

"Don't push yourself too hard," he said after a beat.

Claire paused for a moment before glancing at him. "I won't."

Alexander knew better than to press further, so he let it go, watching as she moved with purpose. The grand opening was just around the corner, and everything had to be perfect. And knowing Claire, she would make sure of it.