The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 52

Olivia

After Dr. Weaver left, Nick turned to me. “Your boyfriend has some serious pull.”

“He’s just trying to help,” I said defensively.

“I’m not criticizing,” Nick clarified. “Just observing. It’s good he’s using his influence for something worthwhile.”

The rest of the afternoon passed in a blur of nurse visits and quiet conversations. Mom returned around six, looking marginally better after a few hours of real sleep. Ethan came back after his classes, bringing a deck of cards and a renewed determination to beat Nicholas at poker.

I was half–dozing in my chair when Alexander arrived, bearing a cardboard tray of coffees from an expensive shop downtown.

“Coffee delivery,” he announced quietly, mindful of Dad’s sleeping form.

Everyone looked up in surprise. Alexander had changed from his work clothes into dark jeans and a casual button–down shirt that somehow still looked expensive. He looked more approachable in this guise, less like the intimidating CEO and more like a regular guy visiting his girlfriend’s father in the hospital.

“Alexander,” Mom smiled warmly. “How thoughtful of you.”

He handed out the coffees. “How’s your father doing?” he asked, taking the empty chair beside me.

“Better,” I said, sipping my latte gratefully. “They’re moving him out of ICU tomorrow if all goes well.”

“That’s excellent news,” Alexander said, his eyes meeting mine. “Dr. Weaver is the best.”

“Thanks to you,” Mom interjected. “We can’t thank you enough for arranging that, Alexander.”

He waved away her gratitude. “It was nothing, really. Just a phone call.”

“Still,” Mom insisted, “it means a lot to us.”

Alexander nodded, accepting her thanks with a grace that surprised me. “How are you holding up, Eleanor? You must be exhausted.”

Just relieved that David is doing well,” Mom said, her voice soft but tinged with the weight of

He seemed different here, less commanding and more attentive. He listened to Ethan’s college stories with genuine interest, asked insightful questions, and even engaged Nick in a detailed discussion about the latest trends and innovations

He

confusion.

asked,

side immediately. “David, this is Alexander Carter. Olivia’s

blinked slowly. “The

stepped forward, extending his hand. “It’s good to meet you, Mr.

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Chapter 52

under better circumstances.”

shook his hand weakly. “So you’re dating

am,” Alexander confirmed, his

him for a moment, then nodded. “Good. She deserves the

more,” Alexander said, his hand finding

Dad’s vitals. We all

cheerfully. “Dr. Weaver will be by in the morning to evaluate moving you to a

Dad muttered. “These beds are

much better, but at least you’ll have

looked exhausted from even that brief

some dinner,” she said firmly. “I’ll stay with your

the hallway, Nick turned to the group. “There’s a decent Italian place a few blocks from here. Anyone

in,” Ethan said

feeling the weight of the day. “I need a

drive you,” Alexander offered. “And bring you back in the

interaction

garage with his hand on the small of my

family is nice,” Alexander commented as we reached his