The CEO's Contractual Wife

Applause filled the room as James accepted congratulations from those around him. He caught my eye briefly and nodded in acknowledgment before turning his attention back to his table companions.

“Ladies and gentlemen, our final item of the evening: a luxury ski weekend at the exclusive Montage Deer Valley. This package includes private jet transportation, a three–bedroom mountainside villa, lift tickets, and private ski instruction. Bidding starts at twenty thousand

dollars.”

“Twenty–five,” called a woman from a table near ours.

The bidding escalated quickly, with several interested parties driving the price up. Victoria entered the fray at forty thousand, clearly keen on winning this particular prize.

“Fifty thousand,” she called, giving Alexander a smug look.

“Sixty,” countered a man near the back.

Victoria frowned but quickly raised her paddle again. “Seventy thousand.”

The other bidders dropped out one by one until only Victoria remained. The auctioneer was about to close the bidding when James Westbrook’s voice rang out.

“One hundred thousand.”

Victoria’s head whipped around, her expression incredulous. She seemed to waver, then reluctantly lowered her paddle in defeat.

“Sold to Mr. Westbrook for one hundred thousand dollars!”

Alexander chuckled quietly. “He’s showing off now.”

“Isn’t that what all of you are doing?” I whispered back.

He raised an eyebrow. “Touché,”

The auction concluded with an announcement of the total funds raised, over three million dollars for the Children’s Hospital Foundation. Dr. Porter returned to the stage to thank everyone for their generosity and received a standing ovation.

As guests began to mingle again, Alexander excused himself to speak with some board members. I found myself alone at the table with Victoria, an awkward situation I would have

15:48 Wed, Sep 10

Chapter 143

preferred to avoid.

:

she said, her voice dripping with false warmth.

politely. “The

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“Alexander seems quite taken with you. I’m trying to understand

refused to take the bait. “The feeling is

you’re so comfortable in these

“I’m a quick study.”

a junior marketing executive bring to a relationship with one of the city’s

composure. “I’d be happy to discuss my professional qualifications if you’re

not interested in junior marketing executives‘ strategies,” she said with a dismissive wave

keeping my voice level. “I

“How… convenient. Right after

you married my cousin.”

campaign exceeded revenue projections. But I’m sure you read the quarterly reports, so you already knew

as always. He slid into the

kiss to my temple. “What did

Victoria said sweetly. “Congratulating her on her…

eyes narrowed slightly. “Olivia’s promotion was well–deserved

gratitude

15:48 Wed, Sep 10

Chapter 143

:

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replied, taking a delicate sip of champagne. “I’m sure

can fight my own battles,” I murmured, just loud enough for

you,

“I know you can. That’s one of the many things

this has been fascinating, but I see Senator waving me over.” She stood, smoothing her emerald gown.

she sauntered away, I released a breath I

her well,” Alexander said, his voice warm with

against Victoria is to not

reaching for his champagne. “She’s like a shark; she

blood in the water,”

his breath warm against my ear. “Did you know

my cheeks

You’re doing it

released my lip, embarrassed