Don’t Fall for the Billionaire Lover

The grand hall was buzzing with guests, laughter, and chatter filling the air. Claire was there, mingling effortlessly with the crowd. By her side was Barrett, her younger lover-everyone knew about their relationship, but no one dared to speak about it openly. He was always just a step behind Claire, like a shadow. It wasn't long before Barrett made his way over to Connor, a glass of red wine in hand. "Don't you think you're being a bit too heartless towards your sister, Chloe?" he asked, his tone casual yet pointed.

Connor barely glanced at him, "Are you defending her now?"

Barrett smirked, a hint of self-mockery in his expression. "Defend her? I don't even have the right to stand up for Ms. Claire. But seeing her, a woman at the peak of her life, being cornered by her own brother... it stirs something in me."

Connor chuckled, a low, mocking sound. "She's not at rock bottom yet. You're jumping the gun on the sympathy."

"Connor, do you really want to push Ms. Claire to the edge? Is that what it takes for you to back off?"

Connor leaned in, curiosity piqued. "Didn't peg you for someone who'd care so deeply for my sister. You're just her kept toy, aren't you? Or is there more to it?"

Barrett's eyes were steady. "Ms. Claire has been a beacon in my life. I'd never turn my back on her."

Connor laughed again, but it was laced with scorn. "Don't kid yourself. You're just a replacement in her eyes, aren't you?"

Barrett knew it all too well. His resemblance to Claire's first love when he was on stage was the reason she kept him close. When he first started in the industry, he was at the mercy of cruel investors. Claire had been the one to pull him out of that nightmare.

Over the years, she had treated him with kindness and even negotiated with Connor to secure his safety, trading assets as a bargaining chip. He owed her everything. Growing up in an orphanage, he had been bullied and overlooked. It was only with Claire that he felt seen and valued. She wasn't just a lover or sponsor; she was a mentor, almost a mother figure like Chloe.

"Being Ms. Claire's stand-in love is a blessing beyond words," Barrett confessed. Connor's laughter was sharp as a knife. "So, you've come to say all this?"

Barrett's voice was firm. "I'm here to let you know that even as Claire's

so-called 'dog', I'll protect her

sw noveline

fiercely. I'd lay down my life for her."

Connor nodded thoughtfully. "My sister's got blood on her hands, but having a loyal dog like you is quite the stroke of luck."

Barrett added, "Oh, and Claire

wanted me to let you know she left a

gift in your room. Might want to check it out before someone else

gets their hands on it."

Connor caught the undercurrent of the message. Barrett's visit was no mere social call. It was a warning wrapped in pleasantries.

He made his way upstairs, leaving the vibrant hum of the party behind.

Half an hour later, the house was in full swing. The garden and hall echoed with the clink of glasses and lively chatter. It was just an engagement party, but the anticipation was palpable. Yet, as the ceremony was about to kick off, the bride and groom-to-be were nowhere in sight.

The emcee called out their names, but the stage remained empty. The crowd's curiosity turned into a buzz of speculation.

"Has anyone seen Pax and Eve? It's their day, after all. Where could they have disappeared to?"

"Probably not too thrilled about this arranged marriage. Maybe they've taken off together."