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.

everything,” she demanded. “I need to

a meeting now, but we’re going to dinner at some fancy place

that black dress with the low back,” Emilia suggested. “The one that makes your boobs look

so focused on how my breasts look in

and you should use all your assets,”

hanging up now,” I

have your European adventure. But I want details when you

the jet lag.

called back, sitting up and running

the doorway, looking unfairly handsome

stretching. “How was

above projections.” He loosened his tie and sat on the

“Starving,” I admitted.

are at eight. We have time for a walk along the

perfect. Just let

light jacket for the evening chill. Alexander changed into more casual attire as well, and soon we were strolling along the Thames

I said, watching a tour boat glide past, its windows glowing

as you,” Alexander replied, his

“That was cheesy, even

smile. “You like it

it,” I corrected, bumping my hip against

whispered, pressing a

plaques. It felt surprisingly normal, like any couple

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

the sommelier approached with a bottle Alexander

times,” he admitted. “Their tasting