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.”

pulling ingredients from the refrigerator. “How

well.” I leaned against the counter, watching Alexander

glanced up at me. “I’m glad to

the moment struck me. Standing in his kitchen, discussing my father’s health while he made

of work, family

The photos showed Alexander

spent evenings at Alexander’s penthouse, reviewing

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8:07 pm

Chapter 82

together. No more sitting on his lap. Just the occasional touch for the benefit

23

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

asked, his hand finding the small of my

I’ll ever be.” I muttered. “Just remember, my dad’s still recovering. No stressing him

an eyebrow.

I’m afraid

revealing my mother in her favorite apron. Her face lit up at the sight

into a hug before turning to Alexander. “So good to

a bouquet of flowers and a bottle

are beautiful!” Mom exclaimed, examining the expensive wine with wide eyes. “You didn’t need to bring

Alexander replied smoothly. “My

resisted the urge to roll my eyes as we followed Mom inside. Dad was sitting in his recliner, looking much better than

face crinkling into a smile as I leaned down

are you

his chest.