The CEO's Contractual Wife (Olivia and Alexander) novel Chapter 231

Olivia

The question hung between us, heavy with implications neither of us seemed ready to explore.

“These photos,” he continued, his voice dropping lower, “they make it look like you’re leaking information to James. Like. you’re using your position at Carter Enterprises to help my competitor.”

“That’s insane. I would never-

“I know that.” He cut me off. “But the board doesn’t know you like I do. They see the CEO’s wife having secret meetings with James Westbrook, and they’re going to draw conclusions.”

“They weren’t secret! We were in public places!” I threw my hands up. “And since when do I need your permission to have coffee with people?”

“When those people are actively competing against everything I’ve built.”

“So what, I’m supposed to avoid him? Cross the street if I see him coming?” I laughed bitterly. “That’s not how this works.”

“That’s exactly how this works when my inheritance is on the line. His voice rose slightly. “When everything I’ve worked for depends on this arrangement looking legitimate.”

“Arrangement.” I latched onto the word. “Is that what you’re worried about? That these photos will expose what we really

are?”

“Part of it, yes.”

“And the other part?”

He didn’t answer, just stared at me with that intense gaze that usually made my knees weak. Right now, it just made me angry.

“Let me tell you what really happened,” I said, keeping my voice steady. “I ran into James at the cafe. We talked. He was nice. Professional. No flirting, no inappropriate comments, nothing that would suggest anything beyond casual conversation. At O’Malley’s, he intervened when Ryan got aggressive. And at Thompson, he was in the neighborhood, saw me, and said hello. That’s it. The entire story.”

“And you didn’t think any of this was worth mentioning?”

“Why would I? It wasn’t important.”

“My competitor showing up everywhere you go isn’t important?”

“Your competitor being a decent human being isn’t newsworthy, no.

Alexander picked up his whiskey again, draining it. “The timing bothers me.”

“What timing?

James appearing right when you need help. Right when you’re vulnerable. Right when you’re working alone.” He set the glass down. It’s calculated”

“Or it’s a coincidence.

“I don’t believe in coincidences. Not with James.”

17:43 Fri, Dec 19 O.

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I rubbed my temples, feeling a headache building “What do you want from me Ale coffee! For being polite to someone who’s been nothing but respectful?

You want me to apologize ka lab

I want you to understand that every action you take reflects on both of us. On this marriage, on the company on dry abili to inherit what’s rightfully mine

“Your life depends on this marriage,” I said quietly, the weight of his earlier words sinking in. “That’s what you said. One wrong step and you lose everything

“Yes,”

“And these photos, they’re that wrong step?”

“They could be. If Grandfather sees them, if the board starts asking questions…” He trailed off, but the implication was clear

I felt something cold settle in my chest. “So you’re questioning me over some random photos because you’re worried about your inheritance?”

“I’m questioning you because everyone else is doubting us. Victoria’s been spreading rumors, Penelope’s making trouble, and now someone’s following you and taking pictures.” He moved closer. “I need to know you’re being careful. That you understand what’s at stake.”

“I understand perfectly.” My voice came out flat. “Your money, your company, your legacy. That’s what matters.”

“That’s not fair.”

“Isn’t it?” I met his gaze. “You drag me home, show me photos that make me look suspicious, question my judgment, and then tell me your whole life depends on me playing my part correctly. What part of that is unfair?”

“Olivia-”

“I put my life into this, too.” The words burst out, sharp and angry. “My reputation, my career, my family’s opinions. Everyone thinks I married you for money, for status, for whatever gold–digging reasons they can come up with. I deal with that every single day.”

“I know-”

“Do you?” I cut him off again. “Do you really know what it’s like to have people whispering behind your back? To have ex- boyfriends call you a plaything? To have your own friends question your motives?”

“That’s not what it is.”

“That’s exactly what it is.” I stepped back, needing space. “And now you’re doing the same thing. Questioning me, doubting me, because of some stupid photos that show absolutely nothing.”

“I’m not doubting you. I’m trying to protect us.”

“By accusing me of what? Leaking secrets? Having an affair? What exactly am I guilty of, Alex?”

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