The CEO's Contractual Wife

Chapter 171

Chapter 171

Olivia

I pulled into O’Malley’s parking lot, scanning for a spot amid the usual Friday night crowd. The neon sign buzzed overhead, casting a red glow across the cars.

My phone buzzed with a text from Emilia: “Got us seats at the bar. Hurry before someone steals them!”

I smiled, already feeling lighter at the prospect of drinks with my best friend. After the drama with Penelope and that horrible gossip article, I needed this night out.

I found a spot near the back and pulled in, grabbing my purse from the passenger seat.

The cool evening air hit my face as I stepped out. I locked the Porsche with a beep, still not quite used to driving such a luxury vehicle, and headed toward the entrance.

“Liv?”

I froze at the familiar voice behind me. Ryan. Perfect timing, as always.

Turning, I found him standing a few feet away, hands shoved in his pockets. He looked exactly like he had the last time I’d seen him, slightly disheveled in that calculated way he thought made him look artistic.

“What do you want, Ryan?” I asked, not bothering to hide my impatience.

He moved closer, that half–smile playing on his lips. “Just saying hi. Fancy running into you here.”

“Yeah, what a coincidence.” I crossed my arms. “At the bar I’ve been coming to for years.”

traveling over my body in a way that made my skin crawl.

need to go inside. Emilia’s

my path. “Come on,

great, remember?” I moved to

ride.” He nodded toward my Porsche. “Carter must

his voice made

to his ex without it

when that guy cheated on me with

months ago. I’ve

I’m meeting someone inside.” I

path, less casual now. “I don’t get it. What’s he got that I

and respect for boundaries? I’m not having this conversation in

Ryan pressed, his tone sharpening. “Because that’s what everyone’s saying. Gold–digger Olivia, sleeping her

flaring hot in my chest. “What did you just

Carter.” His face contorted with bitterness. “What, did you have

harsh even to my own ears. “You’re the one who stuck your

words but recovered quickly. “Moving on is one thing. Marrying the richest guy three months later? Come

I don’t care what you believe.” I

the rush? Afraid your

arm away. “Don’t

asked, his voice rising. “You used to be real. Now you’re just another plastic trophy wife with a

I upgraded.” The words

“So you admit it? Is it about the

who respects me.” I stepped back, putting distance between us. “Something you clearly never

know it.” Ryan moved closer, invading my space again. “I respected you. I

funny way of showing it.

face flushed red.

making,” I interrupted. “Who knows how many others

me. “We were together for years,

bar entrance,

that’s it? You’re just going to walk

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