The CEO's Contractual Wife (Olivia and Ryan) novel Chapter 144

Chapter 144

Olivia

Victoria stood behind him, her smile smug.

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“I led several campaigns that doubled their online engagement and increased conversion

rates.”

“Olivia is incredibly talented,” Alexander added, his hand finding the small of my back. “We’re lucky to have her at Carter Enterprises, regardless of our personal relationship.”

“How fortunate for everyone,” Victoria interjected. “Though I imagine it must be difficult to navigate the professional–personal boundary. Office romances can be so… complicated.”

“Not when you’re both adults,” I replied with a pointed look at Victoria. “Communication and mutual respect make everything simpler.”

Mr. Preston looked between us, clearly sensing the tension. “Well, this has been enlightening. If you’ll excuse me, I should find my wife before the auction closes.”

As he walked away, Victoria’s smile faded. “Really, Olivia? ‘Communication and mutual respect‘? How very Hallmark card of you.”

“I find sincerity works better than sarcasm in most situations,” I replied. “But we all have our preferred weapons.”

Victoria’s eyes narrowed. “You think you’ve won something, don’t you? The ring, the name, the man. You think you’ve secured your place.”

“I’m not playing whatever game you think this is,” I said quietly.

“Aren’t you?” Victoria stepped closer. “You played your cards perfectly. Junior marketing executive to Mrs. Carter in record time. Quite the career advancement strategy.”

I felt my temper rising, but kept my voice steady. “You know nothing about my relationship with Alexander.”

“I know my cousin,” she replied. “And I know his type.”

“Victoria,” Alexander’s voice cut through the tension, low and dangerous. “Enough.”

She straightened, her smile returning as quickly as it had vanished. “Just looking out for the family’s best interests, Alexander. Someone has to.”

“I think you’ve done enough ‘looking out‘ for one evening,” he replied coldly.

Chapter 144

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Victoria shrugged elegantly. “Have it your way. Enjoy the rest of the gala.” She turned to me, her eyes glittering with malice. “And Olivia, dear, do be careful with that necklace if Alexander wins it for you. Sapphires can be so… delicate. Much like marriages.”

With that parting shot, she glided away, leaving a chill in her wake.

“I’m sorry about that,” Alexander said once she was out of earshot.

“Not your fault,” I replied, trying to shake off the encounter. “Victoria will be Victoria.”

“Still, she shouldn’t have—”

“It’s fine,” I interrupted, forcing a smile. “Let’s not let her ruin the evening.”

Alexander studied my face for a moment, then nodded. “You’re right. Let’s get a drink.”

We made our way to the bar, where Alexander ordered two glasses of champagne. As we waited, I noticed several people glancing our way, whispering behind their hands.

“Everyone’s staring,” I murmured.

“Let them,” Alexander replied, handing me a flute of champagne. “They’re just jealous.”

“Of what?”

“Of me,” he said simply. “For having the most beautiful woman in the room on my arm.”

Despite everything, I felt a rush of warmth at his words. “Smooth talker.”

“Only when it’s true.” He clinked his glass against mine. “To my incredible wife, who handles Victoria more gracefully than anyone I’ve ever seen.”

I laughed, genuinely this time. “That’s a very specific toast.”

“But an important one.” His eyes held mine. “Seriously, Olivia. The way you stood up to her without losing your composure… it was impressive.”

“I’ve dealt with mean girls before,” I shrugged. “Victoria’s just a more expensive version.”

Alexander laughed. “That’s one way to put it.”

We were interrupted by the master of ceremonies announcing the close of the silent auction. “The winning bidders will be notified shortly, and items can be collected at the end of the evening.”

“Do

you think you won the necklace?” I asked Alexander as we made our way back to our table.

Chapter 144

“I hope so,” he replied. “It would look stunning on you.”

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Harold waved us over as we approached. “There you are. Victoria said you were bidding on something.”

“A sapphire necklace,” Alexander replied, helping me into my seat.

“For Olivia?” Harold asked, his eyes twinkling. “Good choice. Blue suits her.”

“That’s what I thought,” Alexander agreed, taking his own seat.

Julia leaned forward. “Olivia, dear, I wanted to tell you how lovely you look tonight.”

“Thank you,” I replied, pleasantly surprised by the compliment. “It was Alexander’s choice, actually.”

“He always did have good taste,” she said with a smile that seemed genuinely warm. “Well, until recently.”

I blinked, uncertain if I’d been insulted or not.

“Mother means I’ve outdone myself with you.” Alexander clarified. “It’s a compliment, albeit a

backhanded one.”

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