Page 56 of Enzo

Rio and Dex are still sending me links to the videos. One is still going viral, but I don't waste too much energy on that.

I have other things on my mind.

Chapter 14

ENZO

I get back to my hotel room after my swim.

It was exactly what I needed after the long day. A day in which I not only met Luca Valizar, but also received a proposal I don’t quite know what to make of

I take a shower then quickly check my laptop. My email inbox is full again. Lesley, my personal assistant, keeps an eye on it for me, and only forwards me the most important ones.

I find myself staring at a long list of important emails that need my immediate attention. As I scan the subject headers and senders, one email jumps out at me.

I quickly open it.

From: Penelope Grech

Mr. Knight,

My name is Penelope Grech, Director of Strategic Operations for Mr. Valizar.

I’ll be your main point of contact for the project going forward.

Following your discussions with Mr. Valizar today, a meeting has been arranged for you at 9a.m. tomorrow. The address and directions are attached.

I will meet you there.

Regards,

Penelope Grech

I open the attachment. An address, a map and nothing else. The more important details—such as the agenda or what we're supposed to discuss, are not there.

I don't like Luca’s way of working. I have nothing against mystery, but it doesn't have a place in business dealings. I quickly look at the map. It’s the place I went to today. The neglected land that he wants developed.

Great. Another meeting in the great outdoors, but this time with the Director of Strategic Operations. My cell phone rings. I quickly glance at it, see that it's Mama. I immediately answer it.

“Mama.”

“Enzo, tesoro, the world is still interested in you.”

I sigh. “I’m sorry, Mama.”

“Was that why you didn't come to see me?”

I didn’t tell her the reason why. I just told her that I had business to take care of. But Mama is smart. And there’s no hiding from the internet, especially if a video of you has gone viral.

“ Yes,” I say, slowly. I hate lying to Mama. I almost never do. “I'm sorry, Mama.”

“Who filmed that?” Mama’s voice is soft, not judging, no trace of irritation or disappointment.

“Someone I met at the ball in Venice.”

“She’s turned your life upside down, tesoro.”

I clench my jaw, as words elude me.