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.”

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

mine.”

be more accurate,” James corrected with a smile, holding Olivia’s hand a moment

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Chapter 145

to meet you,” Olivia said politely, withdrawing

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“The pleasure is entirely mine. I must say, the photos don’t do you justice.

Olivia replied, her tone perfectly balanced

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

said firmly, my arm tightening around

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

Olivia glanced at

catching up,” I explained. “Old friends and

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

“Perhaps,” she replied noncommittally.

nod, James turned

exactly is James Westbrook?” Olivia asked, her

the complicated history between us. “An old friend who

seem very friendly,”

close once,” I admitted, placing my hand on the small of her back. “Competed for everything: grades, internships, women.

“And now you’re competitors.”

manages investments for half of Hollywood. We occasionally target the same acquisitions.” I shrugged.

me guess,

I smiled. “Of course.”

hundred thousand dollars

been competitive. Especially when he knows

for a moment. “There seems to be more to it than just

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Chapter 143

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history, I assured her, not wanting to delve into the messier aspects of our past friendship. “Nothing worth

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