The Billionaire's Dangerous Redemption (by Claire Winters) novel Chapter 79

79 A New Ally and a Forgotten Birthday

The words died on Vera’s lips as a young woman stepped through the doors of Engra her entrance nothing like the dramatic silhouette F’d been expecting. She stood about my height dressed in an impeccably tailored blazer and slim-cu-trousers her dark han falling in a sleek bob around her heart-shaped face. Her eyes, bright and alert scanned the room before landing on Vera with recognition

Cora!” Vera waved enthusiastically

froze, my eves widening. That face-I knew that face

You made it Vera pulled the woman into a quick hug before turning to me. “Hazel this is Cara Cadwell, the investor I was telling you about.”

The woman–Cora-extended her hand with a playful smile. “Nice to officially meet you Hazel Properly this time:

My mouth fell open: “You’re the Porsche driver. The fake rideshare.

She laughed, a bright, unabashed sound. “Guilty as charged.”

Vera looked between us, confusion clear on her face. “Wait, you two know each other”

I crossed my arms, still processing this bizarre coincidence “She drove me home from the hospital after the wedding incident. Claimed to be a rideshare driver in a hundred-thousand-dollar car

Vera’s eyebrows shot up. “Seriously, Cora?

Cora shrugged, not looking the least bit embarrassed. “What can I say? I was bored that day?

We made our way back to the VIP section. Cora greeting several people by name as we passed. She clearly moved in the same social circles as everyone here

“So, I said once we were seated are you going to explain why you pretended to be a driver that day?”

Cora leaned back crossing her legs casually I was actually at the hospital visiting a trend when spotted you. You looked like you needed a ride and I was headed downtown anyway

I didn’ believe her for a second And you just happened to know who I was

“Let’s just say your wedding drama wasn’t exactly low profile Cord replied smoothly But I promise I’m not some creepy stalker. Em genuinely interested in fashion

especially your work

Vera jumped in, noticing my skepticism. “Cora’s the one who helped me take down all those viral posts about your wedding. She knows people at the platform

This caught my attention. I’d been so immersed in work that I hadn’t checked social media in days. “Those posts are gone

“Completely, scrubbed. Vera confirmed. “Like they never existed

I turned to Cora with newfound appreciation: “How did you manage that?”

Let’s just say I know which strings to pull.” she winked. “The internet isn’t as permanent as people think when you have the right connections

The server approached with a tray of drinks. Cora declined the champagne, opting for sparkling water instead

“Not drinking tonight?” I asked.

“My brother would cut off my monthly allowance if he found out I was drinking on a weeknight, she said lightly, though something in her tone suggested she wasn’t entirely joking.

“Your brother sounds strict,” I remarked.

Cora’s smile turned wry. “He’s… protective. Thinks someone needs to be the responsible one in the family, and it’s certainly not going to be me

Over the next hour I found myself warming to Cora. Despite her obvious wealth and connections, there was something refreshingly straightforward about her. She talked about fastuon with genuine passion and knowledge, not the superficial interest Loften encountered at industry events

“So” I asked finally, “why did you really pick me up that day? The truth this time

Cora’s playful expression softened. Honestly You looked utterly devastated i recognized that look dve worn it myself. And sometimes the kindness of a stranger is Easier to accept thas pity from friends

The simple honesty of her answer caught me off guard. Before I could respond, vera vinked her glass foudly calling for everyone’s attention

Everyone! an I have your attention, please?”

The chatter around our section gradually died down. I glanced at Vera, confused. Why was she making an announcement?

I want to thank everyone for coming tonight. Vera continued, her gaze landing squarely on me. Especially our guest of honor

I blinked. Guest of honor?

As you all know” Vera’s voice softened with affection. “my best friend has had a hell of a month. She’s been betrayed, she’s been tested, and she’s risen to every challenge with more grace than anyone could expect.

My chest tightened as I realized what was happening. The gathering, the celebration- it wasn’t just about my business.

“Tomorrow” Vera continued, her eyes glistening, this incredible woman turns twenty-six. And I know for a fact she completely forgot about it?

Gasps and laughter rippled through the group. I felt heat rise to my cheeks as realization washed over me. My birthday. Tomorrow was my birthday, and hadn’t given it a single thought

“So, Vera raised her glass. “I wanted to surprise her tonight, surrounded by people who genuinely care about her. Not because of who she might be connected to, or what she can do for them-but because she’s Hazel Shaw, the most talented, resilient, and loyal friend anyone could ask for.

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