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.”

James took her hand. “Olivia, James is a… business associate

mine.”

holding Olivia’s hand a moment longer than necessary. “Though Alexander

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Chapter 145

nice to meet you,” Olivia

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remained fixed on her. “The pleasure is entirely mine. I must say, the photos don’t do you justice. You’re even more beautiful

replied, her tone

a lucky man,” James continued. “Though

do,” I said firmly, my

I won’t keep you. Just wanted to say hello and remind

Olivia glanced

catching up,” I explained. “Old friends and

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

“Perhaps,” she replied noncommittally.

turned and disappeared back into the

asked, her eyes following his

took a sip of champagne, considering how to explain the complicated history

doesn’t seem very

“Competed for everything: grades, internships, women. After graduation, he joined Westbrook

“And now you’re competitors.”

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

guess, you

I smiled. “Of course.”

paid seven hundred thousand dollars for a sketch? To

Especially when he knows

moment. “There seems to be more to it than just business

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Chapter 143

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the messier aspects of our past

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