Palma W
Six years ago, when the Berlandi family accused Nico Valenti of leaking their financial records, I found the evidence that proved him innocent.
When they still refused to take him back, I mortgaged my mother's restaurant and put everything I owned on the line for him.
With my backing, Nico eventually became the person in charge of Saint Vito Port. He promised that at this year's council meeting, he would openly introduce me as his wife.
But that night, I was stranded at Blackwater Docks. I called Nico for help twelve times.
He never came.
Instead, he was at the council giving my pin to my best friend, Bianca Rossi, and letting her take my seat as his wife.
When Bianca finally answered my call, she smiled and turned the camera toward the crowded hall.
"Alessia, you're good at handling things. I'm sure you'll figure it out."
Then Nico accused me of being petty.
"It's her first time at the council. Do you have to embarrass her in front of everyone?"
I looked at the seven fresh stitches in my palm and laughed.
Nico had built his career with my help. Bianca was enjoying a status she'd gotten through me.
Yet somehow, I was still the one expected to step aside just because I could "handle it."
I didn't argue. I called the registrar. "Strip them of everything tied to my name. Effective immediately."
If Nico and Bianca truly believed they had gotten this far without me, it was time for me to take back everything I'd given them.