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, squeezing

to plan,” Mom said, her eyes already lighting

I added quickly. “We

friends,” Alexander

water glass, “I suppose a toast is in order. To Olivia and Alexander.

Alexander’s eye over the rim of mine. He winked, and I felt a flutter in my stomach that had nothing to

of wedding talk and family

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Chapter 83

by dessert. Dad remained more reserved,

while Mom and Amelia cleared the table (refusing my help again), Dad gestured for Alexander to join him on the back porch. I watched

appearing beside

replied, not taking

you?” Nick asked, studying my

brother, surprised by the question. “What

you light up like

respond, the back door opened, and Dad and Alexander came

okay?” I asked Alexander when

the small of my back again. “Your father

just as we were preparing to leave, full of apologies

said, hugging me tightly. “My big sister,

warned, but

expect to be best man,” Ethan told Alexander seriously. “I give excellent

“Embarrassing speeches,” I corrected.

the best kind,” Ethan