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

says he’s recovering well.” I leaned against the counter, watching Alexander crack

up at me. “I’m

moment struck me. Standing in his kitchen, discussing

few weeks passed in a blur of work, family visits,

spotted having dinner. The photos showed Alexander

into a strange new pattern. Weekdays were filled with intense work. We often spent evenings at Alexander’s penthouse, reviewing our “relationship timeline” and

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8:07 pm

Chapter 82

No more waking up tangled together. No more sitting

23

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,

of my back as we walked up the

I muttered. “Just remember, my dad’s still

raised an eyebrow. “I’m

what I’m afraid

open before we could knock, revealing my mother in her favorite

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

of flowers and a

beautiful!” Mom exclaimed, examining the expensive wine with wide

replied

we followed Mom inside. Dad was sitting in his recliner, looking much better than he

girl,” Dad said, his face crinkling into a smile as

you

he replied, patting his chest. “Dr. Weaver says I’m