Hired a Gigolo, Got a Billionaire

Chapter 92 Christian's P.O.V I tried to keep a neutral expression as I listened to the investor's endless monologue about export tariffs and customs regulations. Under normal circumstances, this kind of conversation would have my full attention after all, expansion into the Ascian market was one of the pillars of my plan for Kensington. But my eyes kept roaming the hall, searching for Zoey's burgundy dress. "So, Mr. Kensington, what do you think of our proposal about alternative ports?" asked Fletcher, the eldest of the investors. I forced my mind back to the conversation.

"It's an interesting suggestion. We can go over the details tomorrow in the formal meeting." I smiled politely, hoping the generic answer would suffice. Fortunately, Fletcher seemed satisfied, nodding solemnly before sipping his whisky. I took the pause to scan the room again. Finally, I spotted her near one of the windows. She wasn't alone. Anthony was gesturing animatedly as he spoke, his body leaning toward her in a way that looked suggestive even from a distance.

Zoey's body language was unmistakably defensive-tense shoulders, rigid posture, that slight furrow in her brow I had already learned to recognize as a sign of discomfort. A wave of irritation went through me. Anthony had always struggled with boundaries, especially when it came to attractive women. The fact that Zoey was my wife probably only made the situation more tempting for him. "Mr. Kensington, is everything all right?" asked Easton, the youngest of the investors, noticing my distraction.

"Perfectly." I adjusted my tie, which was a gesture I'd developed to buy myself time when I needed to gather my thoughts. "Just watching how the event is flowing. Zoey's first big reception as hostess." Fletcher smiled, turning to observe the room. "Your wife is charming. Young, but with remarkable presence." "Yes, she is," my response was automatic, but sincere. When I looked back toward Zoey, she was gone, leaving Anthony looking faintly irritated. "If you'll excuse me, gentlemen." I inclined my head apologetically.

now." He shrugged, pouring himself another whisky. "I think she wasn't feeling well. Maybe she stepped away." I frowned, concerned. Zoey wasn't the type to disappear from

silent toast. "Don't worry. Go check on her." I slipped out of the hall discreetly, avoiding the curious stares of lingering guests. I checked the library and a few adjacent rooms, but there was no sign of Zoey. Finally, I decided she must have retired to

with dark shadows beneath her eyes. I showered quickly and slipped

attractive. It was something deeper -an authenticity, a quiet strength disguised as vulnerability. She didn't fit into my world, and yet somehow, she made it better. More real. Our "marriage of convenience" was becoming less convenient and more... complicated. Dangerously complicated. I sighed softly, letting

The light filtering through the blinds showed it was already morning, later than I usually woke up. The bed beside me was empty, the sheets cold. Another sound-unmistakable this time. Someone was retching. I got up quickly, worry propelling me faster than I would normally move just after waking. I