Billionaire's Rebirth: From Riches To Rags

New Beginnings

Unknown P.O.V

The last thing she remembered was the sound of glass shattering before everything went blank.

Beep. Beep. Beep.

The deep scent of antiseptic, accompanied by distant voices and footsteps was the only thing she could perceive as she struggled to regain consciousness.

".....stable for now, quickly inform the doctor the patient is waking up".

She could feel a gentle hand wrap around her wrist, followed by a soft voice which kept whispering to her. "Miss....can you hear me".

Suddenly her eyes flew open, like one who had just been bought back to life from the dead. She held on tightly to see her chest trying to catch her breath.

"Easy Miss, breathe slowly. You're safe now".

"W_where..." She tried to speak but the words felt like she'd swallowed broken glass.

"You're in the hospital, so you've got nothing to worry about". The nurse gently cut in, as she helped her sit up, carefully sliding a pillow behind her.

"But, I-"

"Don't try to speak yet". The nurse poured a glass of water from the flask on the bed side table. "Drink this first and then you can ask all the questions you want when the doctor arrives".

With shaky hands, she quickly accepted the water and drank it as fast as she possibly could, almost choking herself in the process. The nurse couldn't help but let out a small chuckle as she handed her another glass.

"Thank you". She said, feeling more relaxed.

The door opened and a tall middle aged man, wearing a white coat with a stethoscope around his neck walked in accompanied by two nurses.

"W-who are you". She asked, eyeing them suspiciously.

"Hello, I am Doctor Harrison Ford, your attending physician and these are my colleagues, Nurse Daisy and Claire." He said with a warm smile.

"Doc..Doctor Harrison". She repeated, wincing in pain as she slowly leaned forward. "Can you please tell me what exactly happened to me and how I ended up here?".

"Do you have any memory of what happened to you before you fell into a coma?". He asked politely.

"My mind feels like it's covered in some kind of fog." She shook her head slowly. "No matter how hard I try, I can't seem to remember anything or anyone."

"When you first arrived at the hospital, you were badly hurt from an accident. Our medical team worked through the night just to stabilize your condition. But after the surgery, you fell into a coma and the chance of you ever waking up was very low". He revealed

"For how long was I in a coma?". She asked

The Doctor hesitated for a moment. "Six months".

"Six months?". She repeated, tears falling down her cheeks "Oh God, what happened to me".

" I understand that this is a lot to take in. That's why I am here, to help you understand everything." He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "But to do that you have to promise me that you'll stay calm no matter what". He said firmly but gently.

She nodded her head slowly, taking a deep breath to calm herself down.

"Although the surgery was successful, the accident caused significant trauma to your brains, leading to post traumatic amnesia and memory loss. That is why you can't remember anything or anyone anymore".

"But...but you're gonna help me remember everything right? I'll be able to recover soon right?". She asked, her teary eyes searching for a bit of hope.

Doctor Harrison remained quiet for a while, the big smile on his face suddenly turned sour.

"Right?". She asked again.

"The truth is, it's too early to say for sure if or when you'll recover. But for now, we'll need to run more tests to reassess your condition and determine the best course of treatment for you". He assured her.

"But what if it doesn't work? What if I never get my memory back or worse...". She grasps the doctor's arm, her eyes wide with fear. "What if I am stuck like this forever?".

"We'll cross that bridge when we get there." The doctor smiled, carefully releasing his arm from her strong grip. "For now, let's focus on taking things one step at a time, Okay?".

She took a deep sigh, before reluctantly shaking her head "Okay..."

Doctor Harrison nodded in satisfaction. "I also need you to understand that your body is going through a process called deconditioning, where your muscles and nerves have adapted to the reduced activity during the coma, almost like your nerves are still waking up from a long sleep." He explained "We'll work on some physical therapy exercises to help stimulate your muscles and nerves, but you have to keep in mind that some parts might take longer than the others to make a full recovery".

"Doctor... what exactly do you mean by "some parts"?" She asked, her brow furrowed.

"What I mean is, your leg was also severely damaged in the accident, and it will need a much longer time to heal. But rest assured we'll make sure that you're back on your feet in no time." He assured her.

"For my sake, doctor". She murmured, desperation written on her face. "I hope you're not wrong about this".

"You don't have to worry about anything else,

we will do everything we can to ensure the best possible outcome". He glanced at his watch "And speaking of help, I think it's time for us to leave, so you can get some rest."

"But I still have a lot of questions that need answers". She tried to protest.

"I know, and we'll answer them all in due time. But for now you need to rest and let your body heal first. In the meantime, the nurses will be keeping a close eye on you and I'll come by regularly to check on your progress.

She nodded, forcing a weak smile. "Thanks a lot Doctor, for everything".

"You really don't have to thank me, I am just doing my job".

As the door closed behind them, the room suddenly became quiet. The only thing she could hear was the soft beeps of the hospital machine and her unsteady heartbeat.

"Who am I? Where did I come from? and more importantly, how did this happen to me in the first place". She thought aloud but the answer seemed to be far from her reach.

She felt like she was drowning in a sea of darkness with no way out. If only she could find something, anything at all that would give her a glimmer of hope. She would hold onto it and never let it go. But there was nothing, just a dark and empty space that seemed to swallow her whole.

She was so lost in her own thoughts that she didn't realize that someone had entered her room.

It wasn't until the strangers' eyes met her, that she snapped back to reality. Her hands began to tremble in fear as she quickly reached out for the bed side table to stop herself from falling.

"Who...who are you?"

Rodriguez Empire

Six Months Earlier

Valentina P.O.V

Five Days To The Wedding

Valentina stood in front of her one-of-a-kind antique mirror, carefully tucking the last strand of her long ash brown hair into the stylish silver beret which was a perfect match for her flowy, knee length chiffon gown and crystal ankle strap heels. After she was done, she took a step back to admire her handiwork, a satisfied smile spreading across her lips.

"I mean seriously, how does one manage to look so stunning every single day". She smirked, blowing a prideful kiss to herself.

A loud knock on her door interrupted her moment of self admiration.

"Come in". She called out with a hint of irritation in her voice.

Ava, her personal maid, carefully stepped into the room. "Good morning ma'am"

"Have the driver prepare the car, I'll be leaving soon". Valentina ordered, her eyes fully focused on her collection of designer bags, carefully arranged on her shelf.

"Which one to choose?". She mumbled, her eyes moving from the Vivianne Royale collection to the Aurora vita and back again.

Ava stood quietly, her hands folded in front of her as she tried to find the right words to speak to her arrogant boss without upsetting her more.

"Don't just stand there, get out". Valentina scolded.

"I-I'm afraid that won't be possible ma'am". She stammered.

"Excuse me". Valentina paused, her harsh gaze falling on Ava who could only bow her head in fear.

"Forgive me ma'am, but the master of the house ordered us not to let you leave without joining the family for breakfast. And the madam also...."

"Madam?". Valentina fumed, taking a step closer "How dare you call that gold digger the lady of my house?".

"Am so sorry Miss Valentina, I-I really didn't mean to offend you". Ava pleaded desperately.

"Oh, you're not sorry yet". She sneered, a cold smile spreading across her face "But you will be after I am done with you".

Ava was caught off guard as Valentina forcefully shoved her aside, almost sending her off balance before storming out of the room, her heels loudly clicking on the polished marble floor. The household staff knew better than to get in her way whenever she was in a temper.

At the dining room, Thiago Rodriguez, the kingpin of the Rodriguez empire and mastermind behind their vast fortune, sat at the head, reading the morning news headlines. He was dressed to impress in a well tailored Italian suit adorned with a gold, Rolex watch. Everyone who knew him could testify that even in his late fifties, he still had a way of showing off for the day's work.

Olivia, his wife, was seated next to him gracefully sipping her favorite black ivory coffee. Her bouncy black hair slightly touched her shoulder, and her eyes focused on her schedule for the day.

The quiet atmosphere around them, along with the delicious scent of freshly baked mouth watering pastries, made the usual peaceful mornings at the Rodriguez Mason until trouble in the form of Valentina came barging in.

"Ah, Valentina dear, I'm glad you're joining us for breakfast today". Thiago smiled, setting his newspaper aside.

"Good Morning to you papà". Valentina leaned in for a kiss, before sliding into the chair opposite Olivia.

"Valentina darling, we didn't expect you to join us for breakfast today so, you'd have to forgive us for not setting a place for you at the table". Olivia said, a half smile on her face.

"It's alright Olivia, I didn't come here to have small talks and pretend to like you." Valentina fired back "I'm just here to make something clear to my father and then I'll be on my way".

"What is this about, Valentina". Thiago asked, raising a brow.

"Father, I understand that you care deeply and only want what's best for me", Valentina said firmly but respectfully "But with my wedding just a few days away, you can't keep holding me back like this. I'm an adult now, I make my own decisions".

"Mi corazón, you'd have to forgive your old man". He said with a sigh. "It's hard for me to accept that you're getting married soon and might not be around as much".

"Don't be so dramatic papà, I am only getting married, not moving to another state." Valentina teased "And even if I was, it still wouldn't change the fact I am the only daughter of the most powerful business tycoon in the entire country and no one would be able to get rid of me so easily".

Thiago chuckled, shaking his head in amusement. "I'm telling you my dear, I'm afraid that even selling our entire fortune wouldn't be enough to compensate for losing you".

"Of course".Valentina tossed her head back in pride, a smug smile spreading across her face. "All the wealth in the world couldn't possibly match up to me. I'm a Rodriguez, after all".

Olivia snorted loudly, rolling her eyes and muttering a few words. "Let's just eat and leave the chit chat for later. The food's already getting cold."

Olivia gave a slight nod to the servants standing by the table and they immediately began to serve the dishes.

"You know what Olivia". Valentina leaned forward, her brow snapped together "It's just no fun seeing people try to fit in where they clearly don't belong. Don't you think so too?"

Olivia shifted uncomfortably, but still managed to maintain her composure. "You're the only daughter of this family Valentina, you really shouldn't be worried about anyone trying to compete with you?"

"For your own sake Olivia". Valentina glared "I hope you're right".

"Alright... alright ladies, I think we've said more than enough now. Let's eat already". Thiago interrupted, breaking the tension.

Valentina glanced at her watch. "I really should get going now".

Thiago raised a brow. "Are you really not gonna stay for breakfast?

"Am sorry papà, but I already planned to have breakfast with William today, I can't cancel it now".

"In a few days time, you and William will be married and starting a new life together." Thiago said "Is it too much to ask for one last meal together as a family?"

"Papá, we'll always have time to make new memories together". She said softly "But for now l really need to get going". She wrapped her arms around him in a warm hug, holding him close before reluctantly letting go.

"Te amo, mi corazon". He whispered gently

"Love you too". Valentina replied, quickly rushing out of the house.

"That child". Thiago chuckled, shaking his head "She always knew how to sweet talk her way out of things".

Outdoor, Valentina settled into the back seat of her plush Mercedes-Benz S-class. Once they'd left the Mason behind, she quietly rolled down the windows, letting the cool breeze tousle her hair.

"We're arriving soon miss Valentina". James her personal driver said, as soon as the tall, modern building, housing The Thompson Realty was in sight.

She nodded, turning her attention back to the outside view. She couldn't help but smile inwardly as she thought of William Thompson, her Fiancé and the CEO who had managed to capture her cold heart.

Valentina glanced at her watch as soon as the car stopped right in front of the sleek building, noting she had arrived on time as always.

James carefully opened the car door, and Valentina stepped onto the sidewalk. Her dark glass sparkled as she stylishly made her way into the building.

"..... Oh my goodness, Miss Valentina looks so gorgeous today".

"... I love the glasses".

".....I wish I could pull off a look like that".

The employees of Thompson Realty exchanged hushed comments as they watched Valentina enter the elevator leading to the first floor.

"Those people really have nothing better than to gossip every single time I come here, like lives depend on it". She scoffed.

The door opened and she stepped onto the first floor, home to the company's top executives and various administrative departments.

"Good morning Ma'am". William's assistant,

Rose welcomed her with a warm smile on her face.

Valentina brushed past her, without so much as a word or glance.

"Miss Valentina". Rose said, quickly stepping in front of Valentina, blocking her path. "My boss is preparing for a meeting, I don't think he'll be able to see you now".

Valentina slipped her glasses to her nose, taking a good look at the secretary who dared to act so boldly in front of her.

"Rose? Is it?".

"Ye...yes ma'am".

"How long have you worked for my Fiancé?". Valentina asked, her icy tone made Rose shiver in fear.

"Uhmm, I've been working here for two..no.. three years now....ma'am". Rose stammered, her eyes dropped for a brief moment.

"Well Rose, let's make this simple". Valentina said, taking a step closer. "If you have plans on making it a third... oh, I mean a fourth year.. You'd do well to stay out of my way".

Rose nodded immediately, as if her life depended on it.

Valentina lips curled into a cruel smile.

"You look like a smart woman, I'd hate for this to be last time I'd get to see that pitiful face of yours".

"Of course ma'am". Rose murmured, stepping aside "This way please". She said, gesturing towards the office door.

Inside The office

"Is it just me, or do you keep getting more handsome every time I see you?". Valentina teased, settling into the chair opposite William.

"Why are you here so early?". William asked, his eyes focused on reviewing the stack of property deeds and contracts in front of him.

"Seriously Mr Cold?". She said with a playful smile "That's no way to greet your fiancée, after I've driven all the way here for breakfast with you".

William glanced up at Valentina, their eyes locked for a moment before returning to his files.

"Val, I've got a lot on my plate today." He said "I'll be meeting with some important clients to finalize The Harrison Acquisition, review the quarterly reports and meet up with the marketing team to discuss the new campaign strategy. Can we maybe raincheck breakfast?".

"Hey, I am not just a pretty face here". Valentina protested. "I've got responsibilities, deadlines and a business to run - just like you. But somehow, my schedule isn't as important as your client meetings".

"Alright then, Miss CEO". He said, leaning back in his chair "Tell me, why aren't you at the office right now?".

"Well, It's because I...."

"You left all the work for Diego again, didn't you?". William interrupted.

"Why do you always have to bring that Diego into every single thing I say or do?". Valentina asked, feeling a flash of irritation.

"For goodness sake Valentina". William said with a sigh. "Diego is your only brother and my best friend too. You can't keep letting him carry the weight of your company on his own."

"Well excuse me". Valentina scoffed "Diego is the one who begged to be CEO and now that I let him have it temporarily, he comes running to you to talk me out of it?".

"You know what Valentina?. William said, shaking his head in frustration "Sometimes I get so tired of trying to talk you out of these things. It's like you never listen".

"Classic William Thompson, always quick to judge me". She smirked, her lips trembling at the corner. "It's always 'Valentina's fault' or 'Valentina's Problem'. Just when are you going to start owning up to your own mistakes?".

"Me?" William asked in disbelief "What exactly did I do wrong this time?"

"We're getting married in five days." Valentina said, frustrated "But it looks like you're more concerned about setting up meetings and listening to my selfish brother complain about me all day, than about your own wedding".

"That isn't true Valentina". William protested "You know I care about the wedding just as much as you do".

"Oh really now?". Valentina asked, her voice filled with sarcasm "Then I guess you wouldn't mind telling me how many of your friends and family members you've bothered to check if they are even invited, assuming you've looked at the guest list at all?.

"Val, I..."

"Or maybe you've just been too busy searching for the perfect wedding suit and ring, you haven't been able to pick one out yet. Not that you haven't even thought of doing it at all, right?" She interrupted, letting out a cold and angry chuckle.

"I... I haven't". He admitted, guilt written all over his face.

"That's the problem here". Valentina spat, angrily turning her face away. "You haven't even tried to do anything for our wedding. It feels like you don't even care at all".

William quietly reached out for her hands, but she snatched it away. Her fingers, still drumming angrily on the table.

"Val, am sorry okay?. He reached out for her hand again, this time holding onto it more tightly. "I realize now that I haven't been there for you like I should. But I promise that from now on, I am not gonna let anything get in-between us ever again".

"You're not gonna take it back. Are you?." Valentina asked, struggling to keep a stern look as if she knew she'd be forgiving him soon enough.

She couldn't fool herself into thinking she could be mad at him even for a second. And deep down, she blamed herself for being too soft, and letting her emotions get the better of her whenever he was around.

"Of course not". William said, a gentle firmness settled on his face. "I won't let you down ever again, that's a promise".

"Well alright then". Valentina's face brightened up "You can start by taking out for breakfast"

"You really got me there didn't you?". William chuckled.

"You bet I did". She said with a smirk.

"So, where would you like to go for breakfast?. William asked, setting his files aside.

"Well, I was thinking about that fancy restaurant, Creación. You know, the one that serves my favourite Tortilla Española".

"Sounds good. I'll make reservations".

"Perfectó".

Bride's Day Out

Six Months Earlier

Valentina's P.O.V

Four Days To The Wedding

"This has to be a nightmare". Valentina murmured, her eyes fixed on a delicate silver lace wedding dress fitted on the mannequin.

"Miss Valentina, I assure you, this is a one-of-a-kind dress that I designed specially for....".

"BE QUIET". Valentina rudely interrupted, making Sophia take a step back.

As one of the most in-demand designers in the industry. Sophia La Vie's creations were worn by A-list celebrities, fashionistas and stylish women in the business world. Her runway shows were always a highlight of the fashion calendar.

So, It wasn't much of a surprise when the corporate queenpin herself, Valentina Rodriguez had Sophia La Vie on speed dial for her show-stopping wedding dress.

"Four days Sophia." Valentina fumed, angrily pacing back and forth "I'll be getting married in four days, do you really expect me to walk down the aisle wearing this...thing?".

Sophia forced a smile, gesturing towards the door "My office is right next door. Perhaps we could continue this conversation in private?".

The Main floor of Casa Vida Boutique was abuzz with activities, models showcasing the latest designs on the catwalk while bride-to-be and their entourage walked around, trying to find their perfect gown. But all the activities seemed to come to a stop as all eyes focused on the unfolding drama.

"Why should I go anywhere with you, huh?. Valentina demanded, folding her arms "You're the one who designed this gown, not me. And you're ashamed of it? How can you expect me to wear this on my wedding day?"

Sophia looked away, her eyes avoiding the curious glances of her employee and the other clients.

"I specifically told you what I wanted". Valentina continued her frustration boiling over "You were supposed to follow my order, not do your own thing. Which by the way, turned out to be a total disaster".

"But Ma'am, I only created this design because I thought..."

"You thought?". Valentina interrupted again "I hired you to do a job, not think for yourself".

"I understand that clearly, but you have to trust me. This design is a work of art". Sophia urged. "If you'd only give it a chance, I am sure you'd love it".

"You're still talking, huh? Unbelievable." Valentina scoffed, her hands closed around her bag as she pulled her phone from her Givenchy Antigona Bag. "Let's see how you survive in this industry after I am done with you".

"Madam please, I beg you, don't do this". Sophia pleaded desperately, knowing full well that with just one call from Valentina Rodriguez, her career would be done and over with, in the blink of an eye.

Time seemed to freeze as Valentina's eyes remained glued to her screen. Sophia's employees watched in anxious breath. Their eyes moved quickly between their boss and Valentina. Everyone else felt like they were waiting for a verdict.

"What's going on here? I mean did someone finally realize that these clothes are so last session?"

All eyes shifted to stunning Helen Emberwood, a Glamour Gazette Fashion House Icon and Valentina's best friend.

"You always did know how to make an entrance, Helen, you still do". Valentina said with a smirk.

"If not me, then who?" Helen leaned in, her cheek brushing against Valentina's "But seriously, what's going on? You look like

you're about to fall apart".

"Of course I am upset, Helen". Valentina fumed "Look what they've done to my dress, it's ruined".

Helen's eyes moved from Valentina's angry face to the stunning silver lace wedding dress, perfectly embroidered with delicate patterns that seemed to shine like diamonds in the light.

"OMG". Helen's s eyes sparkled with admiration. "Is this the most breathtaking gown I've ever seen or what?".

"Wait? What?". Valentina asked in disbelief.

"Sophia La Vie, you've really out done yourself this time." Helen gushed, her fingers tracing the delicate embroidered lines on the dress

"I mean this is absolute perfection, a true masterpiece indeed".

"Hold on, are you being serious here? or are you just trying to avoid a scene?". Valentina asked.

"Of course I am being serious." Helen replied "I've attended many high-end parties and weddings and I've seen my fair share of stunning wedding dresses designed by the best from the industry. But I can confidently say that this gown surpasses them all".

Valentina raised a skeptical brow "You know, I still don't believe that this dress is as good as you say it is"

"Okay, then, if you don't believe me, you could at least try to believe in the power of, you know, social media, celebrity gossip.... Take, for example, the wedding of the elegant Larush that shook the whole city last year".

Valentina shifted uncomfortably "Seriously, Lisa Larush of all people?"

"Oh come on, V, it's already been a whole year since the incident happened, don't tell me you still haven't moved on from it yet?". Helen asked

"Lisa publicly humiliated and then uninvited me to her wedding. You think I'm just going to forget about that? Not a chance". Valentina stated.

"Let's not forget, your badmouthing almost ruined her big day. And you can't pretend otherwise". Helen pointed out.

"Oh please". Valentina scoffed, rolling her eyes "Lisa's got more skeletons in her closet than a graveyard, and I'm the one who got blamed for trying to expose a few of them?"

Helen's head slowly shook in defeat, knowing that trying to reason with Valentina was a lost cause.

"Anyway, Lisa's wedding was all over the news last year and it wasn't just the over- the- top ceremony that made the headlines. It was the jaw-dropping she wore that really got people talking".

"Your point?". Valentina asked, her patience running thin.

"My point is this gown... your gown is on a whole different level". Helen's face wore a persuasive smile "I'm willing to bet that

people won't stop talking about it for years to come".

"You really think so?". Valentina asked, her eyes narrowing slightly as she considered Helen's words.

"Of course I do, isn't that right, La Vie?". Helen asked, quickly raising an eyebrow at Sophia

"Yes, of course". Sophia hand gestured elegantly "I personally designed embroidery of the gown with 24-karat silver threads and selected the finest-rare hand picked silk for the flowing skirt. Making this gown a unique piece that no one would ever wear".

Valentina paused for a moment, taking a second look at the gown. The design wasn't really what she had in mind for her big day, but putting that thought aside, she couldn't deny that the new dress had a certain Je ne sais quoi she couldn't ignore.

"Alright then". Valentina finally broke the silence. "I'll think about it".

Sophia's heart skipped a beat as she struggled to contain her excitement. Even if Valentina didn't give a definite yes, she had managed to dodge a bullet and her reputation was saved... for now".

"If and only If, I choose to go with this design". Valentina shot her a stern look "I expect nothing but perfection in its delivery. No mistakes, no delays. I want it exactly as you've shown me and I want it on time".

"Rest assured". Sophia said with a smile"You won't be disappointed".

Outside, Valentina settled comfortably into the driver's seat, carefully buckling her seat belt before driving out of the boutique's parking lot and into the busy road, beside her, Helen touched up her lip color using the rearview to ensure her lip line was perfectly painted.

"Hey, V". She called, her lips pressed together "You still haven't told me where we're going yet".

"We're headed to Pearl Palace Mall." Valentina replied, her eyes steady on the road. "I'm counting on you to help me pick out something amazing for an anniversary party".

"Anniversary party". Helen repeated, her brow furrowed.

"Yeah". She said with a nod "I've got the Smiths anniversary party on my schedule for tomorrow".

"Smith? As in Brianna and Troy Smith?". Helen asked, her eyes widened in disbelief.

"The one and only". Valentina replied, her voice filled with sarcasm.

"I thought you didn't get along with the Smiths?". Helen asked, "What's the deal with attending their anniversary party?"

"Honestly, I'd rather be doing just about anything else". She said with a sigh "But the Smiths are business partners and friends with Williams, so I couldn't exactly say no, when he asked me to attend".

"I don't know how you're going to do this". Helen said, shaking her head "You can't even have a decent conversation with them. How are you going to make it through the whole night?"

"Oh come Helen". Valentina smirked, "I mean what could be so hard about putting on a fake face and pretending to get along with everyone?."

"Girl, don't say I didn't warn you". Helen warned "This Is going to blow up in your face, and I'm gonna say, I told you so".