The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 57

Olivia

We slipped away from the main party and headed toward the yacht’s stern. Alexander nodded to a crew member, who opened a door for us, revealing a private staircase.

“Should we be going this way?” I asked nervously.

“I arranged it earlier,” Alexander assured me. “Trust me.”

The staircase led to a secluded deck at the very back of the yacht. It was empty except for a comfortable–looking lounge area with cushions and blankets. The space was lit only by strings of fairy lights and the moon above, reflecting off the dark

water.

“What is this place?” I asked, gazing around in wonder.

The owner’s private retreat,” Alexander explained. “I asked if we could borrow it for a while.”

“And they just said yes? Because you’re Alexander Carter?”

“Because I donated a significant amount to their foundation. And yes, because I’m Alexander Carter.”

I laughed. moving to the railing to look out at the twinkling lights of Los Angeles in the distance. The yacht had moved away from the harbor while we were dancing, and now we floated in calm waters, the city a glittering backdrop.

“It’s beautiful.” I breathed.

“Yes, it is,” Alexander agreed.

Thank you for bringing me here tonight. It’s been unexpected.”

“In a good way. I hope.” He moved to stand beside me at the railing.

“Definitely. I’ve never been to anything like this before.”

“Get used to it,” he said, his shoulder brushing mine. “As Mrs. Carter, you’ll attend dozens of these events each year.”

The remainder of our arrangement brought me back to reality. “Right. For appearances‘ sake.”

Alexander turned to face me, his expression serious in the dim light. “Olivia, I want you to make the most of this arrangement. Not just for appearances, but for yourself.”

“What do you mean?”

that ballroom have the

his words. “You want me to network?

who can help you advance. It would be a waste not to take advantage

I know how,” I

you. Consider it

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Chapter 57

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his face, trying to understand his motives. “Why would you do

well on me,” he said pragmatically.

my sleeveless gown. Alexander immediately shrugged out of his jacket and draped

he asked, his hands lingering on my

inhaling the subtle scent of his cologne that clung

said dryly. “I’m not the one wearing a

dress,” I reminded

choice. You look stunning

the water. The sounds of the party drifted faintly from below, but up here, it felt

ask you something?” I said

“Of course.”

did you really bring me

question. “I told you, to

why? Our arrangement doesn’t require you to be

wanted to spend time with you outside of our usual contexts.

if it’s just

quietly. “We have limited time together, Olivia.

flutter through my chest that I tried desperately to ignore. This was business for him, I reminded myself. A

team–building exercise?” I joked, trying to

quirked. “If that’s how you want to see it. Though I’ve never wanted to kiss anyone at a

My breath caught. “Alexander-”

he interrupted smoothly. “I remember

slightly, creating space between us. “We should head back soon.

back toward the staircase. Just before we reached the door, he