The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 82

Olivia

I padded to the bathroom, avoiding my reflection as I splashed cold water on my face. After using the toilet and brushing my teeth, I finally forced myself to look in the mirror.

“It was just a dream.” I told my reflection firmly. “It doesn’t mean anything.”

My reflection didn’t look convinced.

I ran my fingers through my tangled hair, trying to make myself somewhat presentable before facing Alexander. The silk pajamas had twisted around my body during the night, the top unbuttoned just enough to show a hint of cleavage. I quickly fixed it, buttoning it all the way up to my neck.

The smell of coffee lured me out of the bedroom. I followed it to the kitchen, where I found Alexander standing at the counter, already dressed in jeans and a casual button–up shirt, his hair still damp from a shower.

“Morning,” he said, glancing up from his phone. “Coffee?”

“Please,” I replied, my voice still rough with sleep.

He poured a mug and slid it across the counter to me. Our fingers brushed during the exchange, and I nearly jumped at the contact, my dream still too fresh in my mind.

“Sleep well?” he asked, a knowing smirk playing at his lips.

“Fine,” I lied, taking a large gulp of coffee to hide my face. “You?”

“Very well. His eyes traveled over me, lingering on the silk pajamas. “You look good in blue.”

1 shifted uncomfortably under his gaze. “Thanks.”

“Hungry?” Alexander asked, moving to the kitchen with casual confidence. “I can make eggs. Or we could order something.”

“Eggs are fine,” I replied, following him. “I should probably head home after breakfast. I need to check on my dad.”

from the refrigerator. “How is he

The doctor says he’s recovering well.” I leaned against the counter, watching Alexander crack eggs into a

at me. “I’m glad to

moment struck me. Standing in his kitchen,

weeks passed in a blur of work, family visits, and carefully orchestrated public appearances

front–page news after we were spotted having dinner. The photos showed Alexander whispering something

strange new pattern. Weekdays were filled with intense work. We often spent evenings at Alexander’s penthouse, reviewing our

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8:07 pm

Chapter 82

a careful physical distance. No more waking up tangled together. No more sitting on

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fence, well–tended garden, and the welcome mat Dad insisted on keeping despite Mom’s protests. Alexander parked his sleek Aston Martin at the curb, looking distinctly out of place in

finding the small of my back

“Just remember, my dad’s still recovering. No stressing him

raised an eyebrow. “I’m charming,

what I’m

my mother in her favorite apron. Her face lit up

in.” She pulled me into a hug before turning to Alexander. “So good to see you again. David’s in the living room, feeling much

flowers and a bottle of wine. “Thank you for

Mom exclaimed, examining the expensive wine with wide

course I did,” Alexander replied smoothly. “My mother

followed Mom inside. Dad was

his face crinkling into a smile as I leaned down to hug him

are you

he replied, patting his chest. “Dr. Weaver