The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 145

Chapter 14.5

Alexander

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I spotted James approaching through the crowd, his usual confident smirk firmly in place. No doubt coming to gloat about winning the Basquiat sketch.

“Alexander,” he greeted with practiced ease, champagne glass in hand. “Quite the evening. Though I must say, it’s rare to see you lose a bidding war.”

I extended my hand, forcing a pleasant smile. “James. Congratulations on the sketch. You certainly wanted it badly.”

“Not as badly as you did, apparently.” His eyes gleamed with satisfaction. “Seven hundred thousand seemed to be your breaking point.”

“The difference between us, James, is that I know when something isn’t worth the cost.” I kept my tone light, as if we were discussing the weather rather than his attempt to publicly one–up me.

“Always the businessman. Though I wonder if your grandfather would agree with your assessment of worth.”

“My grandfather understands value better than most.” I placed my hand on Olivia’s back, drawing her slightly closer. “Besides, we can’t win every battle. You should enjoy this small victory while you can.”

James’s smile tightened almost imperceptibly. “Small victory? Perhaps. But I do seem to be on a winning streak lately. First, the Meridian acquisition-”

“Which ultimately went to Carter Enterprises,” I interrupted smoothly.

“Details,” he waved dismissively. “The real competition is just beginning, Alexander. We’re going to keep crossing paths, you and I.”

“Looking forward to it,” I replied, matching his false warmth. “Business would be boring without worthy opponents.”

James’s attention shifted to Olivia, his gaze lingering a moment too long. “Your wife is absolutely stunning tonight.”

Olivia remained silent beside me, though I felt her posture stiffen slightly.

“She is,” I agreed, feeling an unexpected surge of possessiveness. “Every day, in fact.”

James extended his hand toward Olivia. “I don’t believe we’ve been properly introduced. James Westbrook.”

wife, Olivia,” I said, watching as James took her hand.

mine.”

James corrected with a smile, holding Olivia’s hand a moment longer than necessary.

Sep

Chapter 145

you,” Olivia said politely, withdrawing

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is entirely mine. I must say, the photos don’t

her tone perfectly balanced between politeness and

lucky man,” James continued. “Though I’m sure he

said firmly, my arm tightening around

Just wanted

glanced at

up,” I explained. “Old friends and

laughed. “But dinner should be interesting. Don’t forget.” He nodded to Olivia. “It was lovely

“Perhaps,” she replied noncommittally.

James turned

Westbrook?” Olivia asked, her

complicated history

seem very friendly,”

of her back. “Competed for everything: grades, internships, women. After

“And now you’re competitors.”

the same acquisitions.” I shrugged.

guess,

I smiled. “Of course.”

paid seven hundred thousand dollars for

been competitive. Especially when he

a moment. “There seems to

Thu Sep 11

Chapter 143

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wanting to delve into the messier aspects of our past friendship. “Nothing

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