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

professional basket. Or personal basket, for that matter.” Her eyes flicked between us meaningfully. “Some things simply weren’t built

appreciate your concern,” I said coolly, “but I’m quite

account means anything in the grand scheme. I’ll be watching your work very closely. And your marriage.” She leaned in slightly. “Alexander has… patterns, you know. I’d hate for you

his voice low and dangerous. “That’s enough,

eyes narrowed. “Your father was so disappointed when you called off our engagement, Alexander. He

replied coolly. “And we can take care of ourselves

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

concern,” I replied, keeping my voice steady. “But we’re doing just

the novelty wears off.” She ran a manicured finger along Alexander’s sleeve. “I’ll try my hardest to make your married life

threat beneath her

will your father react to losing the Thompson account? I understand he personally arranged that dinner with Horizon Media. Such a shame

understands that business has its ups and

about failures.” Alexander’s voice carried

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

unable

Especially rushed ones based on

reassuring. “I suggest you focus on

she said, her voice low and dangerous. “I’ll prove I’m the woman

on her heel and stalked away,

with that,” Alexander called after her, his