From Betrayal to Brilliance Her Rise to a New Life novel Chapter 404

**TITLE: Her Rise 404**
**Chapter 404 Out of Danger**

Every word that echoed in Zaden’s mind felt like a hammer striking his heart, reverberating through the very core of his being.

**Finished.**

He had never imagined that during those countless moments when Athena seemed locked in a solitary battle against her own demons, she was actually shrouded in a legacy of immense power.

Fabio was her father!

The Rices were not just any family; they were a formidable force in the business world. Zaden recalled how his mother had always looked down on Athena, dismissing her as someone unworthy of his affection. Yet now, Athena had unearthed her true lineage, validating her very existence. Who could dare to question her heritage now?

A thrilling wave of triumph surged within Zaden, filling his chest with an exhilarating sense of relief.

He took a deep breath, trying to swallow the lump that had lodged itself in his throat. Turning to Fabio, he met his gaze, the seriousness of the moment weighing heavily upon him. “Thank you,” he said, each word imbued with profound significance.

This expression of gratitude was not just for the life-saving blood that had turned the tide at a critical juncture, but also for the years of silent guardianship and care that had gone unnoticed.

Zaden felt an immense gratitude toward this man who had provided Athena with a protective shield, even when she had been blissfully unaware of it.

Fabio waved his hand dismissively, a flicker of relief crossing his features as he seemed to release the burdens of the past. It wasn’t that he had been indifferent; rather, he had chosen to prioritize the more important future that lay ahead.

His gaze returned to Zaden, still assessing him, but now that scrutiny was softened by a newfound warmth. It was the kind of approval that came after careful consideration, a father’s assessment of a potential son-in-law.

“Zaden, everything that transpired between you and Maya is behind you now.”

His voice was steady and authoritative, echoing the decisiveness of a leader. Then, with a weighty pause, he added, “Since you’ve made the choice to be with Athena, you need to commit to her for the long haul. Forget the past, and do not even entertain the thought of pursuing anyone else!”

These words carried the dual weight of a warning and a father’s earnest wish for his daughter’s happiness.

Zaden stood resolute, no hint of hesitation or dissent in his demeanor. He locked eyes with Fabio, his gaze sincere and unwavering, as if he were making the most solemn vow of his life. “I’ve chosen Athena. For the rest of my days, it will be Athena. There will be no one else!”

His declaration resonated through the air, clear and resolute.

This was not merely a promise; it was a truth that had been etched into his very being, as immutable as the stars that adorned the night sky.

Just then, the doors to the operating room swung open once again. The oppressive red light that had filled the corridor finally dimmed, signaling a shift in fate.

The lead surgeon emerged, his steps heavy with exhaustion, as he removed his mask, revealing a face that bore the marks of a fierce battle.

“The surgery was a complete success. We’ve managed to stop all the bleeding points, and her vital signs have stabilized. What incredible luck! Thank goodness the blood supply arrived just in time. We’ll monitor her for a while longer, and if all goes well, she can be moved back to her ward.”

“Success…” Zaden whispered, the word crashing through the walls of strength he had desperately built around himself.

He leaned back against the cold wall, his solid frame sagging as if the weight of the world had suddenly been lifted. He needed the chill of the surface to ground him, to confirm that this was not just a fleeting dream.

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