The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 145

Chapter 14.5

Alexander

51

65 Vouchers

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. “Olivia, James is a…

mine.”

James corrected with a smile, holding Olivia’s hand a moment longer than necessary. “Though Alexander prefers euphemisms when discussing

Thu, Sep

Chapter 145

nice to meet you,” Olivia said politely, withdrawing

51

55 vouchers

I must say, the photos don’t do you justice. You’re even more beautiful

replied, her tone perfectly balanced

continued. “Though I’m sure

I said firmly, my arm tightening

a knowing look in his eyes. “Well, I won’t keep you. Just wanted to say

glanced at

explained. “Old friends

forget.” He nodded to Olivia. “It was lovely to

“Perhaps,” she replied noncommittally.

turned and disappeared back into the

asked, her eyes following his

sip of champagne, considering how to explain the complicated history between us. “An old

very friendly,”

close once,” I admitted, placing my hand on the small of her back. “Competed for everything: grades, internships, women. After graduation, he joined Westbrook Financial, while I joined

“And now you’re competitors.”

areas. His firm manages investments for half of Hollywood. We occasionally target the same acquisitions.” I

guess,

I smiled. “Of course.”

hundred thousand

competitive. Especially when he knows I want

to be more to it than

Sep

Chapter 143

55 vouchnis

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

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255