The CEO's Contractual Wife

After a decadent breakfast delivered by room service, we headed out into the light London drizzle. Alexander insisted on stopping at the concierge desk, where he obtained a large black umbrella emblazoned with the hotel’s logo.

“Can’t have my wife getting wet,” he said, opening it as we stepped outside.

“Your wife could have packed an umbrella if someone had mentioned London weather,” I replied.

“But then I wouldn’t get to play the gallant husband,” he countered, offering his arm.

Covent Garden was charming, a cobblestoned plaza filled with boutiques, cafés, and street performers. We wandered through the Apple Market, admiring handcrafted jewelry and artwork. Alexander kept steering me toward luxury boutiques, but I was more interested in the quirky independent shops.

“You don’t need to buy me anything,” I protested when he suggested we look at a jewelry store.

“I know I don’t need to,” he replied. “But I want to. A memento of your first trip to London.”

“Fine, but nothing extravagant,” I conceded. “Something small I can wear every day to remember this.”

We settled on a delicate silver bracelet with a tiny charm shaped like the London Eye. Alexander insisted on having it wrapped even though I wanted to wear it immediately.

“Patience,” he teased. “Good things come to those who wait.”

We continued exploring until it was time for Alexander to head to his meeting. He escorted me back to the hotel, where I decided to indulge in a bath in the enormous marble tub while he was gone.

Soaking in fragrant bubbles, I called Emilia.

“Oh my god, you’re in London!” she squealed when she answered. “How is it? Is it raining? Have you seen the Queen? Wait, she’s dead. Have you seen the King?”

I laughed, stretching out in the massive tub. “It’s amazing. Yes, it’s raining. No royal sightings yet, but I’ve only been here a few hours.”

“And how’s the suite? I bet it’s ridiculous.”

“Beyond ridiculous,” I confirmed.

she demanded. “I need to live vicariously

we’re going

back,” Emilia suggested.

focused on how my breasts

should use all your assets,” Emilia replied without missing

hanging up now,”

your European adventure. But I want details when

the jet lag. I woke to the sound of

bedroom,” I called back, sitting up and running a hand through my tousled

appeared in the doorway, looking unfairly handsome in his business suit. “Had

nodded, stretching. “How

The London office is performing above projections.” He loosened his tie and sat on the

“Starving,” I admitted.

at eight. We have time for a walk

let

for jeans and a sweater, with a light jacket for the evening chill. Alexander changed into more casual attire as well, and soon we were strolling along the Thames as the city lights began to twinkle in the

watching a tour boat glide past, its windows glowing

as beautiful as you,” Alexander replied, his arm around

eyes. “That

smile.

it,” I corrected,

whispered, pressing a kiss

the view or read the historical plaques. It felt surprisingly normal, like any couple enjoying an evening stroll, not a CEO

Michelin–starred restaurant where the staff greeted Alexander by name. We were shown to a secluded corner table with an excellent view

here before,” I observed as the sommelier approached with a

admitted. “Their tasting menu is