Alessia Thompson stood at the window gazing out at the rain-soaked streets of Ashwood City. The droplets on the glass blurred the world outside, much like her own life. Seven years ago, a traumatic event shattered her childhood, leaving her own life. Seven years ago, a traumatic event shattered her childhood, leaving emotional scars and a persistent sense of vulnerability. Lexi, you're going to be late!" her foster mom, Rachel, called from downstairs, breaking the spell. Alessia took a deep breath, pasting a bright smile on her face. She had perfected the art of deception, hiding behind a mask of normalcy.
The Thompson Household, 7: 45 AM
Alessia hurried downstairs, her backpack slung over her shoulder. Rachel handed her a bowl of oatmeal with a warm smile. Have a great day, sweetie." Thanks, Rachel." Alessia forced a cheerful tone. As she walked to school, the rain-socked streets mirrored her mood. Gray, uncertain, and shrouded in secrets. The rhythmic pattern of raindrops on her umbrella provided a sense of comfort.
Ashwood High School, 8:30 AM
Alessia navigated the crowded hallways, exchanging pleasantries with classmates. lockers cracked open and shut, and friends chatted enthusiastically. The sounds were familiar, yet distant. Her best friend, Sarah Patel intercepted her. Hey Lexi! What's up?" Sarah asked concern etched on her face. Just trying to survive," Alessia replied, rolling her eyes. Sarah's expression turned serious. "You okay? You seem...off." Alessia's mask slipped for a moment before she recovered. I'm fine, Sar. just stressed." But she wasn't fine. The Marco family's interest in her was growing, and Alessia sensed danger lurking in the shadows.
The Bells Rings
Alessia took her seat in class, her mind wandering to the mysterious De Marco family. What did they want from her? As the teacher droned on, Alessias thoughts drifted to the past, to the events that had changed her life forever....
The Memory
Alessias 10-year old self cowered in the corner, her eyes fixed on the chaos. gunshots, screams, and shattering glass. her parent, gone. The scent of smoke and blood lingered. She remembers hiding under the bed, trembling. Classmate Emily Wilson's concerned voice broke the spell." Lexi, you okay? Alessia nodded forcing a weak smile."Yeah, just spaced out." But she wasn't okay. the memories still haunted her. After class, Alessia sought refuge in the school library. She immersed herself in research on the De Marco family, searching for answers. Julian De Marcos's piercing gaze stared back at her from the screen. His biography revealed a complex, ruthless leader.
Alessias phone buzzed, displaying a cryptic message: "YOU CANT HIDE FOREVER." Her heart sank. The Marco family knew her secrets. Alessias hands trembled as she gathered her belomgings. The libary silence felt oppresive. Suddenly, a book fell of the shelfbeside her. Alessia picked it up, noticing the title: "The Art of Deception." A shiver ran down her spine. Was this a sign?
As she walked home, Alessia felt like she was being watched. She quickened her pace, glancing over her shoulder. No one. Just her imagination. Or was it? Upon arriving home, Alessia found Rachel in the kitchen. "Hey, sweetie! How was your day?" Rachel asked. Alessia hesitated, unsure how much to reveal. "It was fine," she said finally. Rachel's eyes narrowed. "You're not hiding something from me, are you? Alessia forced a laugh. "Of course not." But Rchels concern lingeered. That evening, Alessia retreated to her room, her mind racing. Who was Julian De Marco? Why did he want her? And what secret did he know?
The question swirled, like the rain outside. As she drifted off to sleep, Alessia felt the mask slipping. For the first time in years, she let herself feel. Fear. Uncertainty. Vulnerability. the shadow closed in. And Alessia knew she couldn't hide forever.