The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 162

Olivia

“I’ll be honest, Mrs. Carter. I only entertained Ms. Langford’s offer because of the impressive marketing budget. But after seeing your team’s thorough understanding of our brand heritage, the decision became clear. Andrew stated, his tone shifting to one of sincerity.

“We’re honored to have earned your trust,” I replied, gathering my materials. “We’ll make sure the Thompson brand shines in this new chapter.”

“I have no doubt,” Andrew smiled, standing to shake my hand. “Alexander Carter, always a pleasure. Your wife is quite the find.”

Alexander’s hand found the small of my back as he replied, “Believe me, I’m well aware.”

As Andrew excused himself to take a call. Alexander leaned close to me. “Well done. I knew you’d nail this.”

Before I could respond, Penelope appeared at our table, her smile tight and her eyes cold.

“Congratulations on securing the Thompson account,” she said, her voice syrupy sweet. “Quite the accomplishment for someone so…. new to senior leadership.”

“Thank you,” I replied simply, refusing to take the bait.

Penelope turned to Alexander, resting a manicured hand on his arm. “You must be so proud of your bride. Though I wouldn’t get too comfortable celebrating this small victory, Olivia.” Her emphasis on my name dripped with condescension.

“Small?” I echoed, one eyebrow raised.

“Oh, darling,” she laughed lightly. “Thompson Hotels is a stepping stone. I wouldn’t waste too much energy on making this your defining project. After all, who knows how long you’ll be around to see it through?”

“What exactly are you implying,

want poor Olivia to put all her eggs in one professional basket.

concern,” I said coolly, “but I’m quite confident in both my

in the grand scheme. I’ll be watching your work very closely. And your marriage.” She leaned in slightly. “Alexander

his voice low and dangerous.

disappointed when you called off our engagement, Alexander. He had such high hopes for the Langford–Carter alliance. I wonder what he thinks of this…

with my choice of wife,” Alexander replied coolly. “And we can take care

always had such interesting taste.” She tilted her head, examining me like I was a

replied, keeping my voice steady. “But we’re

off.” She ran a manicured finger along

beneath her

space between himself and Penelope’s touch. “How will your father react to losing the Thompson account? I

smile faltered. “A temporary setback. Daddy understands that business has

recall him being rather unforgiving about failures.” Alexander’s voice carried just enough bite to make Penelope flinch. “Especially such

of civility. “I was going to be the perfect wife for you, Alexander. I still can

married,” I interjected, unable to keep quiet any

Penelope scoffed. “Marriages end every day. Especially rushed ones based on

hand, his grip firm and reassuring. “I suggest you focus on salvaging your professional reputation

her voice low and dangerous. “I’ll prove I’m the woman who should be standing beside you. Not this marketing girl you’ve settled

her heel and stalked away, leaving a cloud

called after her, his