The CEO's Contractual Wife (Olivia and Alex) novel Chapter 212

Olivia

The private jet's engines hummed as we descended through the clouds. Milan spread out beneath us, with all its terracotta roofs and medieval towers giving way to modern skyscrapers on the outskirts.

"There," Alexander pointed out the window. "The Duomo. You can see the spires from here."

I pressed my face closer to the glass, excitement bubbling up. "It's gorgeous even from up here."

"Wait until you see it up close. The detail work is incredible."

The landing was smooth, and within twenty minutes we were in another sleek black car, this time with an Italian driver named Marco who spoke rapid-fire English with a thick accent.

"Benvenuti a Milano," Marco said enthusiastically. "First time?"

"For me, yes," I replied. "He's been here a million times but never actually seen anything."

Marco laughed, shooting Alexander a knowing look in the rearview mirror. "Ah, businessman. Always work, never play. This is no good."

"My wife is determined to change that," Alexander said dryly.

"Smart woman," Marco approved. "Milano is beautiful. You must see everything. Duomo, Galleria, La Scala. And the food! Signora, you will never want to leave."

"That's what I keep hearing."

The drive into the city center was fascinating. Unlike London's gray stone or Paris's pale limestone, Milan was warm terracotta and ornate ironwork. Modern fashion boutiques sat next to Renaissance churches. Sleek sports cars shared the streets with tiny Fiats.

"Where are we staying?" I asked as we turned onto a grand boulevard.

"The Four Seasons. It's in a converted monastery from the 15th century."

"Of course it is. Why stay somewhere normal when you can sleep in a former monastery?"

Alexander grinned. "You're learning."

The hotel was stunning, with all frescoed ceilings and marble columns blending seamlessly into modern luxury. Our suite overlooked a peaceful courtyard garden.

"This is incredible," I breathed, exploring the enormous space. "Is every hotel you stay at like this?"

"Pretty much. I find comfort enhances productivity."

"Everything comes back to work with you."

"Speaking of which, I have meetings starting in an hour."

"Already? We just landed."

"Welcome to my life." He was already pulling out his laptop. "But I should be done by six. We can have dinner at this place I know. Best risotto in Milan."

"You and your food recommendations."

"Haven't steered you wrong yet, have I?"

"Fair point." I flopped onto the plush sofa. "Go do your business things. I'll find ways to entertain myself."

After Alexander left, I spent the afternoon exploring the area around the hotel. The Duomo was only a short walk away, its Gothic spires even more breathtaking up close. I wandered through the Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, gaping at the luxury shops and the stunning glass-vaulted arcade.

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