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

eggs in one professional basket. Or personal basket, for

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

your work very closely. And your marriage.” She leaned in slightly. “Alexander has…

stepped forward, his voice low

eyes narrowed. “Your father was so disappointed when you called off our engagement, Alexander. He had such high hopes for the Langford–Carter alliance. I wonder

father is thrilled with my choice of wife,” Alexander replied coolly. “And we

taste.” She tilted her head, examining me like I was a curiosity in a museum. “I do hope your marriage proves successful, Olivia. I’ll be

keeping my voice steady. “But we’re doing

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. “I’ll try my hardest to

beneath her sugary tone

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

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

unforgiving about failures.” Alexander’s voice carried just enough bite to make Penelope flinch.

isn’t over,” Penelope hissed, dropping all pretense of civility. “I was going to be the perfect

married,” I interjected, unable to keep quiet any

day. Especially rushed ones based on

“I suggest you focus on salvaging your professional reputation

her voice low and dangerous. “I’ll prove I’m the woman who should

she turned on her heel and stalked away, leaving a

that,” Alexander called after