Dumped My Cheating Ex. Now I'm Sleeping Next to a Billionaire CEO novel Chapter 1271

Mercedes’s smile faltered for just the briefest moment, but she pulled herself together fast. All around, camera shutters clicked and flashed, and the whole room seemed to be watching their every move. She’d built her reputation on poise, and it showed—she recovered almost instantly, slipping right back into her polished, star-quality grin.

“It’s nothing, really,” she said, her tone light, like this was the most casual thing in the world. “I just wanted to ask Nico what time things kick off.”

Emmy was still smiling, perfectly unbothered, and she glanced toward the man at her side. James was leaning over, deep in conversation with Andrew, who had just arrived and taken his seat. As Janus Sphere Technologies’ top research collaborator, Andrew’s spot was front and center too. The two of them seemed completely wrapped up in their own discussion. James didn’t even glance this way.

Emmy pulled her attention back and gave Mercedes a small, apologetic smile. “Bad timing. As you can see, he’s talking business with Mr. Aldridge. I can check the time for you, though.”

She turned her head to Penny behind her. Penny wore sleek black, looking every bit the bodyguard, and answered in a cool, even voice. “Ma’am, it’s now nine fifty.”

Emmy turned back, warm as ever. “Still ten minutes to go. No need to be anxious.”

Mercedes clenched her teeth, trying not to show it, and managed another smooth nod. “So soon—thank you, Emmy.”

Then Emmy seemed to remember something and reached for a bottle of mineral water resting in a nest of ice nearby. She handed it to Mercedes, her gesture casual and practiced. “It’s hot here on the island. Have some water to keep your throat happy, Mercedes.”

To anyone watching, Emmy looked like the perfect host—thoughtful, gentle, and attentive to her guest. Cameras flashed nonstop, capturing the moment from every angle.

The bottle hovered in front of her, and with all the attention on them, Mercedes couldn’t exactly refuse. She took it with a flawless, grateful smile. “Thank you. You should have some too.”

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