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…”

said firmly, squeezing Alexander’s

wedding to plan,” Mom said, her eyes already lighting up with

too elaborate,” I added quickly.

close friends,”

said, raising his water glass, “I suppose a toast is in

I caught Alexander’s eye over the rim of mine. He winked, and I felt a flutter in my

rest of dinner passed in a blur of wedding talk and family stories. Alexander charmed

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Chapter 83

Dad remained more reserved, watching Alexander

Dad gestured for Alexander to join him on the back porch. I watched nervously through the window as they talked, Dad

Nick said, appearing beside me

can see that,” I replied, not taking my

don’t you?” Nick asked,

by the question. “What makes

you light up like

I could respond, the back door opened, and Dad and Alexander came back inside,

I asked Alexander when he

he replied, his hand finding the small of my

finally arrived just as we were preparing to leave,

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

warned, but I

best man,” Ethan told

“Embarrassing speeches,” I corrected.

best kind,”