The CEO's Contractual Wife (Olivia and Alexander) novel Chapter 216

“This is where you’ll stay if the party runs late,” Stefano said, winking at Alexander. “I know how you two newlyweds can be,”

Back on the main deck, more guests had arrived. A woman in a white bikini and sheer coverup laughed at something at silver–haired man said. Two younger men argued good naturedly over drinks at the bar. The crew moved efficiently between groups, keeping glasses full and plates replenished with elegant hors d’oeuvres.

“Champagne?” A server appeared beside me with a tray of crystal flutes.

“Thank you.” I accepted a glass, the bubbles tickling my nose as I took a sip. “This is incredible”

“Cristal,” the server said with a slight bow before moving on.

“Of course it is.” I muttered to Alexander, who grinned.

“Only the best for Stefano’s guests.”

We mingled through the party, Alexander introducing me to various people whose names I immediately forgot. A businessman from Dubai who kept staring at my breasts. A French fashion designer who kissed both my checks and complimented my dress. An American tech entrepreneur who wouldn’t stop talking about his latest startup.

“Having fun?” Alexander murmured in my ear during a rare quiet moment.

“Define fun.”

“Fair point.”

A woman approached then, tall and blonde in a red dress that left little to the imagination. Her eyes locked on Alexander with predatory focus.

“Alexander Carter,” she purred in a thick Russian accent. “I thought I saw you come aboard.”

“Natalia.” Alexander’s tone was polite but noticeably cooler. “It’s been a while.”

“Too long.” Her gaze flicked to me briefly, dismissively, before returning to Alexander. “You look well. Success suits you.”

“Thank you. This is my wife, Olivia.”

Natalia’s smile never reached her eyes. “Wife? How domestic of you. I never thought I’d see the day Alexander Carter settled down.”

“Full of surprises,” I said pleasantly, though my hand found Alexander’s arm in a clear territorial claim.

“Clearly.” Natalia moved closer to Alexander, her hand touching his chest. “We should catch up properly. I have so many questions about what you’ve been doing since… well, since last time.”

Her emphasis on “last time” made her meaning clear. Alexander removed her hand firmly.

“I’m here with my wife, Natalia. I’m sure you understand.”

“Of course.” She laughed, a tinkling sound that grated. “But surely you can spare a few minutes for an old friend? For old times‘ sake?”

“I don’t think so.”

I watched Natalia’s face shift through several emotions before settling on forced congeniality. “Your loss. Enjoy your… domesticity.”

She sauntered away, her hips swaying exaggeratedly.

“Another old friend?” I asked.

“Unfortunately.”

“You have a lot of those.”

“Comes with the territory of being a bachelor in certain circles for too long.” Alexander pulled me closer. “But I’m done with that life now.”

Before I could respond, a hand landed on my shoulder.

“There you are!” Stefano appeared with another couple in tow. “I want you to meet Antonio and Isabella. They’re in real estate development in Rome.”

The conversation shifted to properties and market trends. I tried to follow along, but my attention kept drifting to where Natalia stood across the deck, her eyes still occasionally cutting toward Alexander with unmistakable longing.

Another woman joined her, equally stunning in a green dress. They spoke in low tones, both glancing our direction. When Natalia’s friend caught my eye, she smiled coldly before whispering something that made Natalia laugh.

“Excuse me,” I said to the group, extracting myself. “I need to find the restroom.”

Below deck, the yacht’s opulence continued. I found a bathroom that rivaled luxury hotel suites, all marble and gold fixtures. I locked the door and leaned against it, taking a breath.

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