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

politely. “The foundation does

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quite taken with you. I’m trying to understand the

refused to take the bait. “The

so comfortable in these settings already. It can take years to learn the social dynamics of this

“I’m a quick study.”

exactly does a junior marketing executive bring to a relationship with one of

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

executives‘ strategies,” she said with a dismissive wave of

I replied, keeping my voice level.

“How… convenient. Right after

you married my cousin.”

said. “The campaign exceeded revenue projections. But I’m sure you read the

impeccable as always. He slid into the seat beside me,

that,” he said, pressing a kiss to

catching up with your lovely wife,” Victoria

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

flush of gratitude toward Alexander for

15:48 Wed, Sep 10

Chapter 143

:

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course,” Victoria replied, taking a delicate sip of champagne. “I’m

fight my own battles,” I murmured, just

you,

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

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

I released a

said, his voice warm

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

chuckled, reaching for his champagne. “She’s like a

the water,”

my ear. “Did you know you bite your lower lip when you’re angry?

my cheeks warm. “I

absolutely do. You’re

embarrassed to be caught in the