Chapter 144

Olivia

Victoria stood behind him, her smile smug.

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“I led several campaigns that doubled their online engagement and increased conversion

rates.”

“Olivia is incredibly talented,” Alexander added, his hand finding the small of my back. “We’re lucky to have her at Carter Enterprises, regardless of our personal relationship.”

“How fortunate for everyone,” Victoria interjected. “Though I imagine it must be difficult to navigate the professional–personal boundary. Office romances can be so… complicated.”

“Not when you’re both adults,” I replied with a pointed look at Victoria. “Communication and mutual respect make everything simpler.”

Mr. Preston looked between us, clearly sensing the tension. “Well, this has been enlightening. If you’ll excuse me, I should find my wife before the auction closes.”

As he walked away, Victoria’s smile faded. “Really, Olivia? ‘Communication and mutual respect‘? How very Hallmark card of you.”

“I find sincerity works better than sarcasm in most situations,” I replied. “But we all have our preferred weapons.”

Victoria’s eyes narrowed. “You think you’ve won something, don’t you? The ring, the name, the man. You think you’ve secured your place.”

“I’m not playing whatever game you think this is,” I said quietly.

“Aren’t you?” Victoria stepped closer. “You played your cards perfectly. Junior marketing executive to Mrs. Carter in record time. Quite the career advancement strategy.”

I felt my temper rising, but kept my voice steady. “You know nothing about my relationship with Alexander.”

“I know my cousin,” she replied. “And I know his type.”

“Victoria,” Alexander’s voice cut through the tension, low and dangerous. “Enough.”

vanished. “Just looking out for the family’s best interests, Alexander.

out‘

Chapter 144

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rest of the gala.” She turned to me, her eyes glittering with malice. “And Olivia, dear, do be careful with that necklace if Alexander wins it for you. Sapphires can be so… delicate.

shot, she glided away, leaving a chill

sorry about that,” Alexander said

to shake off

“Still, she shouldn’t have—”

I interrupted, forcing a smile. “Let’s not

studied my face for a moment, then

of champagne.

“Everyone’s staring,” I murmured.

handing me a flute of

“Of what?”

having the most beautiful woman in the room on

a rush of

my incredible wife, who handles Victoria more gracefully than anyone I’ve ever

laughed, genuinely this time. “That’s a very

one.” His eyes held mine. “Seriously, Olivia. The way you stood up to

girls before,” I shrugged. “Victoria’s just

one way to

of ceremonies announcing the close of the silent auction. “The winning bidders will be notified shortly, and items can

“Do

asked Alexander as we made

Chapter 144

he replied. “It would look stunning on

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approached. “There you are. Victoria said you were bidding on

necklace,” Alexander replied, helping

Harold asked, his eyes twinkling. “Good

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