Page 44 of The Contract Marriage

Chapter Eighteen

Liam

Pride and triumph fizz in my veins like champagne. Olivia looked like a queen as she royally told those parasites off. I wanted to pick her up, spin her around and kiss her, but that would have undermined her moment. So we left, heads held high like true victors.

Everyone’s expressions were priceless. I wish we could’ve taken photos.

My phone starts buzzing almost as soon as Olivia and I climb into the limo. And then it keeps buzzing.

“You might want to answer that. Could be serious,” she says.

I scowl. Is the company on fire? Nothing short of that is worth the interruption.

I yank my phone out, then stop. Oh.

–Silas: You’re married?

–Finn: WTF? We didn’t even know!

–Gideon: I think it’s AI. No way it’s real.

–Roarke: Winston doesn’t lie.

–Me: Winston texted you?

–Roarke: Yes, and it’s all over social media. The bride invited a bunch of influencers and they shared.

I turn to Olivia, letting a slow smile spread over my face. “It appears that Brielle invited influencers.”

She laughs. “That’s so her. She loves to show off.”

“Bitch.”

She gasps. “Liam.”

“What?”

“I never thought you’d say such a word!”

“Bitch. Bitch. Brielle is a bitch. I hope she falls into a ditch full of diarrhea.”

Olivia bursts out laughing. “That’s so immature, but funny.”

I join her. “I’m glad I’m making you laugh.”

–Xavier: You better watch it. Czarina’s going to come for you.

Fuck. I really don’t want to deal with her right now.

–Rhys: Did you honestly go and get married and not tell us or invite us? We aren’t THAT embarrassing!

–Me: You’re on a honeymoon with Max.

–Rhys: I would’ve come back.

I have to smile. He would have, too, because he’s like the father I never had, even though we’re only seven years apart.

–Me: I wouldn’t want to do that to Max.