SURRENDER

life's fragility. The fluorescent lights above cast an eerie glow on the pale walls.Alessia

Even in repose, her beauty shone through – high cheekbones, delicate nose, and full lips.The only sign of life w

Thompson entered, his expression somber. "Alessia, I'm afraid we have a critical situation." Alessia's gaze locked onto h

. Thompson's expression turned grave."The tumor is aggressive. Without surgery, the prognosis is... grim. W

evere cognitive or physical impairments," Dr. Thompson replied. "But without surgery, the out

be... expensive." Alessia's grip on her mother's hand tightened. "How expensive?"Dr. Thompson hesitated. "The estimated c

g into her voice. Dr. Thompson's expression softened. "I'll speak with t

ive you some time to think. We'll discuss options later." He exited the room, leaving Alessia alone with her

her phone buzzed. A text from her father: "Come home. Now. " Alessia's heart sank. What did h

e bright hospital lights blurred together as she navigated the corridors. S

nto the backseat. "Where to?" the driver asked."Take me to Olimpia hill ," Alessia rep

" What did her father want? How would she pay for her mother's treatm

ore her. Sleek skyscrapers, their facades shimmering with holographic advertisements, seemed to st

stating earthquake known as "The Big One." The disaster had reshaped the North Ame

t and country, free from the oversight of the United States. Today, New Nova stood as a beacon of innovation and progress,

extraordinary abilities. As the US and other world powers countered with their own Gen X variants, a new generation of En

elite teams like the Guardian Corps. Others used their gifts for personal gain or simply blended into society she herself ha

d the city's bustling streets, passing by iconic landmarks like the Nova Spire and the Aurora Center .As the cab tur

llas, each one a testament to New Nova's wealth and excess. Lush gardens and precision-

amborghinis – seemed to vie for attention. Alessia recognized a customized Aston Martin Vanquish, its sl

arble and crystal glass facets danced in the fading light, casting a warm glow.Alessia's heart sank as she gazed

oundings before settling on her."Alessia Rizzo," one guard confirmed, his deep voice firm.Alessia nodded, accustomed to the rigorous

nate fountain. The air was thick with the scent of blooming flowers and the distant hum of security drones .At t

nt foyer unfolded: crystal chandelier, marble floors, and a sweeping staircase. Desmond, her father's butler, awaited her wearing a crisp butlers uniform ."We

rainbow hues across marble floors. Flemish tapestries adorned walls, while priceless artwork hung alongside them.Maids moved silently, their

ign. Her eyes lingered on the Rizzo family crest, emblazoned above the staircase.The irony wasn't lost on her. She bore the Rizzo name, but h

existence. By day, she worked alongside these maids, cleaning an

on the plush carpet. Portraits of Rizzo ancestors

ntricate wooden crest, stood ajar. Her father's bodyguard Jenkins, waiting outside, nodded. "Yo

tly behind her. The room exuded power, with dark wood paneling

desk, his tailored suit impeccable. His piercing amber eyes

n skin, raven hair, and sapphire eyes that sparkled like diamonds. Her slender figure was showcased in a de

e was radiant, but her eyes held a calculating glint. "Darling, you

d, a hint of warmth creeping into his eyes. He walked around the desk, his movements f

e wet bar, pouring a glass of fine scotch. "Drink?" he offered, extending the glass. Alessia's instincts screamed caution. The only times her

leather chair, his eyes never leaving Alessia's. "Very well, let's dispense with the

bly need from her?. "What is it?" she asked, her voice cautious. Dominic leaned forward, his eyes glinting with determination. "A powerfu

she whispered. Soon Dominic's nex

to marry Leo