The CEO's Contractual Wife

Olivia

“Married?” Dad repeated, setting down his fork. “That’s quite sudden, isn’t it?”

“When you know, you know,” Alexander said, bringing my hand to his lips and pressing a kiss to my knuckles. “I’ve never been more certain of anything.”

Nick leaned forward, curiosity etched on his face. “What about your work, Liv? Have you thought about whether you’ll continue at Carter Enterprises once you’re married?”

“Absolutely,” I said, my voice steady but my heart racing. “My career at Carter Enterprises means a lot to me, and Alexander has always been incredibly supportive of that. We’ve talked about it at length, and he’s fully on board with me continuing my work there even after we’re married.”

“Completely,” Alexander agreed. “Olivia’s talent is undeniable. I’d be a fool to lose her from the company.”

Dad cleared his throat. “While I appreciate your enthusiasm, I have to say this feels rushed. Marriage is a big step.”

“Dad-“I started, but Alexander cut me off.

“You’re absolutely right, sir,” he said, surprising me. “Under normal circumstances, I’d agree. But the truth is, I’ve been in love with Olivia for longer than she knows.”

He turned to me, his expression so sincere I almost believed him myself. “From the moment I met her, I knew she was special. Letting her go the first time was the biggest mistake of my life. When fate gave me a second chance, I promised myself I wouldn’t waste it.”

Mom’s expression softened visibly. “That’s very romantic.”

“It’s the truth,” Alexander said, his eyes never leaving mine. “I love your daughter. I want to spend my life making her happy.”

Dad studied Alexander for a long moment, then turned to me. “And you, Olivia? Do you feel the same way?”

All eyes turned to me. I swallowed hard, aware that my answer needed to be convincing. “I do, Dad. I know it seems fast, but when it’s right, it’s right.”

Dad sighed, then nodded slowly. “Well, I can’t say I’m not concerned about the timeline, but you’re an adult. If you’re sure this is what you want…”

is,” I said firmly,

I guess we have a wedding to plan,” Mom said, her

I added quickly. “We want

close friends,” Alexander

suppose a toast is in order. To Olivia and Alexander.

over the rim of mine. He winked, and I felt a flutter in my

passed in a blur of wedding talk and family

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Chapter 83

already calling him “son” by dessert. Dad remained more reserved, watching Alexander with a

him on the back porch. I watched nervously through the window as they talked, Dad doing most

said, appearing beside me with a

replied, not taking my

you?” Nick

my brother, surprised by the question. “What makes you

seen you light

and Dad

okay?” I asked Alexander

small of my

down naturally after that. Ethan finally arrived just as we were

order,” he said, hugging me tightly. “My big sister, marrying

I warned, but

be best man,” Ethan told

“Embarrassing speeches,” I corrected.

the best kind,”