~ALEXANDRO’S POV~

The shrill buzz of my phone dragged me from a rare moment of peace. I glanced at the screen: “Mario.” Of course. 

I set down my glass of whiskey and answered. "Yes?" 

"You're trending," Mario said, his tone far too amused for my liking. 

I frowned. "Trending?" 

"Don't play dumb, Alexandro," he chided. "The internet's practically on fire. 'Trillionaire Playboy Spotted with Mystery Woman.' Does that ring a bell?" 

I sighed, already regretting my decision to indulge Lauren's lie. "What's the angle?" 

"Multiple," Mario replied. "Some are speculating she's your secret girlfriend. Others think it's a PR stunt to distract from the merger." He chuckled. "A few even...