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?”

beside me. “What exactly are you

elegantly. “Nothing at all. I don’t want poor Olivia to put all her eggs in one professional basket. Or personal basket, for that matter.” Her eyes flicked between us meaningfully. “Some things simply weren’t built to

coolly, “but I’m quite confident in both my professional capabilities

I’ll be watching your work very closely. And your

voice low and dangerous. “That’s

Alexander. He had such high hopes

my choice of wife,” Alexander replied coolly. “And we can take care of ourselves without your

smile remained fixed, but her eyes narrowed slightly. “Of course he is. Your father has always had such interesting taste.” She tilted her head, examining me like I was a curiosity in a museum. “I do hope your marriage proves successful,

keeping my voice steady. “But we’re

said sweetly. “It’s early days yet. The real test comes when the novelty wears off.” She ran a manicured finger along Alexander’s sleeve.

beneath her sugary tone

himself and Penelope’s touch. “How will your father react to losing the Thompson account? I understand he personally arranged that dinner with Horizon Media. Such a shame his

understands that

rather unforgiving about failures.” Alexander’s voice carried

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

unable to

every day. Especially rushed

firm and reassuring. “I suggest you

“I’ll prove I’m the woman who

parting shot, she turned on her heel and stalked

with that,” Alexander called after