Parallel Lives - Chapter 1: The Awakening

Sarah Jensen jolted awake, her heart racing. The room was unfamiliar, its sleek, minimalist design in stark contrast to her cluttered, cozy apartment. She was in a plush, white bed with a high-tech control panel beside her. Panic set in as she scrambled to her feet, her mind whirling. The last thing she remembered was falling asleep in her own bed, exhausted after a grueling day at her job as a journalist.

A soft chime interrupted her frantic thoughts. A holographic screen flickered to life, displaying a message: “Good morning, Ms. Jensen. Welcome to your new reality.”

“Ms. Jensen?” Sarah echoed, her voice tinged with confusion. She glanced around the room, noticing the futuristic gadgets and the breathtaking view of a sprawling cityscape outside the window.

She stumbled out of bed and approached the window, her breath catching at the sight below. The city was a glittering labyrinth of towering skyscrapers and flying vehicles. This wasn’t the urban sprawl of her old life; this was something out of a sci-fi dream.

The door to her room slid open, revealing a woman in a sleek uniform. “Ms. Jensen, I trust you’re feeling well?” she asked with a polite but distant tone.

Sarah blinked, trying to process the situation. “Who are you? Where am I?”

The woman’s smile was practiced, almost mechanical. “I’m here to assist you. You’re in New Avalon, the pinnacle of technological advancement. As for your questions, please allow me to guide you.”

To be continued ...