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.

:

dripping with false warmth. “Enjoying

replied politely. “The foundation

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champagne delicately. “Alexander seems quite taken with you.

the bait. “The

diplomatic. However, I must say, I’m surprised you’re so comfortable in these settings already. It can take years

“I’m a quick study.”

“Tell me, what exactly does a junior marketing executive bring to a relationship with one of the city’s most eligible bachelors?

qualifications if you’re interested in Carter Enterprises‘ marketing strategies. Otherwise, I think my

junior marketing executives‘ strategies,” she said

anymore,” I replied, keeping my voice level. “I was promoted to Senior Marketing

“How… convenient. Right after

you married my cousin.”

was based on my work,” I said. “The campaign exceeded revenue projections.

always. He slid into the seat beside me, his hand

a kiss to my temple.

lovely wife,” Victoria said

promotion was well–deserved and

a flush of gratitude toward

15:48 Wed, Sep 10

Chapter 143

:

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taking a delicate sip of champagne.

fight my own battles,” I murmured, just loud

you,

amusement. “I know you can. That’s one

Senator waving me over.” She stood, smoothing her emerald gown. “Do try to enjoy the rest of the evening. The

a breath I hadn’t realized I was

well,” Alexander said, his voice

against Victoria is to not let her see she’s gotten to

“She’s like

blood in the water,” I

warm against my ear. “Did you

my cheeks warm. “I do

do. You’re doing

my lip, embarrassed to be caught in the