The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

Cicely squinted her eyes, a chill slowly seeping out.

Seeing Cicely finally lose her composure brought a rush of satisfaction to

Danielle’s heart. From the moment she met Cicely, she couldn’t stand her

arrogant swagger. Maybe they were just like oil and water.

She relished any sign of distress in Cicely, yet for years, Cicely had coasted

through life with undue ease. Nothing seemed to ruffle her feathers. Her wishes

were commands, her desires, instantly fulfilled. Except for Seth, who seemed to

be the one thing that sparked a hint of anticipation in her.

Watching Cicely cling to Seth day in and day out with such shamelessness

amused Danielle at times.

Enter title…

Without the grace and composure expected of a lady of her stature, Cicely’s

arrogance and possessiveness were blatant, her entanglements with Seth,

embarrassingly public.

How could a man, known for his aloof indifference, not grow irritated with such

relentless attention?d2

However, Seth’s repeated shows of affection had Danielle on edge. In the end,

he actually agreed to be her boyfriend. So, even a hint of an unusual expression

on Cicely’s face could make Danielle feel a bit relieved.

But that feeling didn’t last. She hoped Cicely would ask why she had made such

a comment, but Cicely, as if seeing right through her, just laughed after a

moment’s gaze. “I know the situation better than you do. When I got him to

agree to be with me, at best I felt he didn’t despise me. To say he’s with me out

of pure fondness, well, that would suggest to me that he has a soft spot for me

in your eyes.”

Danielle’s face turned cold.

With her arms crossed, Cicely’s lips curled into a lazy, dismissive smile.

“Danielle, I understand why you try so hard. In your eyes, I have everything,

always the very best, so you’ve been using me as your benchmark, pushing

yourself relentlessly?”

She scoffed, “Why are you so fixated on me? Even if I weren’t the darling of the

Ellis family, you wouldn’t be any happier. Do you know why?”

She tugged at the hem of her dress, speaking indifferently, “This dress, a

designer label. It was a tad tight when I bought it, a couple of millimeters snug

around the waist. But I got it anyway, and then I cut back on my portions. Now, it

fits just right. I feel the same way about Seth. It doesn’t mean he’s perfect, and

his imperfections include not being fond of me.”

Danielle’s face twisted with skepticism. She didn’t believe it.

Cicely continued nonchalantly, “So what? At least right now, he’s my man,

officially and rightfully. Affection can grow over time, and I don’t mind

occasionally indulging his preferences. Right now, I’m the only one with that

privilege, and no one else comes close.”

“Danielle, I’ve never claimed to be a saint, nor do I pretend to be a good person.

I couldn’t care less about anyone outside my close circle. There are plenty who

dislike me, but if you have grudges, bring them to me. My father doesn’t owe

you anything. With even a shred of conscience, you wouldn’t keep causing him

distress.

“This is the last time I’m warning you. Be polite to my father, or since you’re so

keen on independence, I’d assume you’re ready to break away completely. Then

do us a favor and keep out of our sight. If I hear about you upsetting my father

again, you’ll see what I’m capable of.

“Don’t play the Ellis family lady card with me. You know full well that in P City,

when people mention the Ellis family’s daughter, they think of me, Cicely.”

Danielle’s hands trembled at her sides before she clenched them into fists. She

stared coldly at the woman before her, struggling to keep her voice steady.

“Without the Ellis family, you’re nothing.” And Seth wouldn’t be yours, either.

Cicely raised an eyebrow. “You’ve told me that more than once, and I’ve

answered you every time. But who knows, maybe one day I won’t be an Ellis.

Perhaps then, Seth will adore me so much he can’t live without me? Even if I’m

no longer Miss Ellis, I might just become his wife, still living in luxury, simply with

a different title.”

Danielle’s expression darkened before she forced a mocking smile. “That day

will never come. Without the Ellis family, you’re nothing.”

She repeated her words, each one deliberate and clear, but this time, there

seemed to be an underlying meaning.

Cicely’s brow furrowed imperceptibly.

Danielle stepped back, “Consider that slap earlier a payment for my disrespect

towards your father. But don’t think I’ll let you off easily, Cicely. The real winner is

the one who laughs last. You enjoy your moment, but one day, you’ll pay double

for your actions today.”

Cicely had heard similar threats before, always from the same source. She

shrugged it off, unwilling to waste more words on the subject.

Danielle took a deep breath, suppressing the bitterness in her heart. “Can you

leave now, please?”

Cicely glanced at her and walked out, closing the door behind her.

Descending the stairs, she encountered Brody, the butler, busying himself with

chores. “Brody,” Cicely called out.

“Miss, aren’t you resting this afternoon?”

Cicely shook her head. “I’m too agitated to rest.”

The butler sighed at the mention of Danielle, his expression souring.

“Did my father’s health checkup earlier this year reveal any issues?”

The butler paused, “No issues at all. Doesn’t he always discuss the results with

you afterward?”

Cicely watched him silently for a moment, then spoke in a cool, detached tone,

“He did tell me, but his demeanor today didn’t seem like a man with no

problems. I must’ve binged one too many soap operas. His last checkup fell

right around the time of my tests, and I swear, if you guys pull some

melodramatic stunt to keep Dad’s illness a secret just to avoid messing with my

scores…”

The butler, Brody, lowered his gaze and shook his head gently. “Miss Cicely,

perhaps you should consider watching less TV drama. You know as well as I do

that even if you hadn’t aced your tests, your father would still have made sure

you got into college.”

Cicely raised an eyebrow, conceding the point.

“The weather turned chilly recently with the onset of autumn. Sir caught a bit of

a cold, but the doctor has seen him, and there’s no cause for serious concern.”

As Cicely mulled over Brody’s words, he nodded, “Indeed.”

A silence settled in the living room. Brody thought the matter would rest there,

but Cicely’s voice slowly filled the space again. “Brody, you’ve been with my dad

for years, and he trusts you more than anyone. I’m curious—did Seth agree to

be with me because of my dad?”

The butler looked up. His gaze met Cicely’s straight on. There was no emotion,

yet those eyes were so transparent. It was as though she wasn’t asking a

question, but seeking confirmation for something she’d already concluded.

After a moment’s hesitation, he sighed softly and said, “Sir always thinks ahead.

Seeing how fond you were of Mr. Diaz, he wanted to nudge you two together

early. I suppose in this world, he’s the one who wishes for your happiness above

all else.”

Cicely’s fingertips trembled slightly. “So, Dad’s involvement in managing Diaz

International was all part of the plan for us to be together?”

The butler didn’t answer directly. “Mr. Diaz is young and at an age of pride and

vanity. Besides what was done, it was hard to think of a better way at the time.

Love needs to grow gradually, Miss. With your beauty and talents, it’s hard for

anyone not to be charmed.”

Although the words she had just shared with Danielle were true, and she was

indeed clear-headed, her heart couldn’t help but feel desolate.

Pride and vanity.

So marrying her was equivalent to possessing the entire Ellis family empire, and

he would be tempted.

She joked about throwing herself at Seth, but even if it were true, Seth wouldn’t

care.

Her father managed Diaz International, taught him how to run the business, and

then used this “favor” as leverage for a successful match. The answer to

Danielle’s question lay right here. Compared to liking her, he was more unwilling

to be labeled ungrateful.

Cicely forced a smile, “I think so too.”

Just like she had told Danielle, they were together now, and there would be a

chance of being together forever. Even if that was the case, so what? That was

the advantage she was born with.

Danielle came downstairs with her luggage, pausing upon seeing Cicely and the

butler, then proceeded to carry her suitcase out herself. The butler instructed a

maid to help Danielle with her luggage.

Cicely sat down on the couch, not bothering to acknowledge her. She picked up

her phone from the coffee table and dialed Seth’s number. The call connected,

and Cicely spoke, “Are you going to be busy today? I’d like to see you.”

Seth’s voice, cool and detached, came after a few seconds, “Busy.”

Cicely kicked off her slippers, curled up on the couch, and noticed a note with

an address that Danielle had left on the coffee table. She picked it up, settling

into the cushions, and responded, “You’ve been busy a lot lately. When are you

going to be free of this busy spell?”

“If things go well, I should have results in three days.”

A long pause followed Seth’s words, with no response from Cicely. His gaze

lifted from his documents, frowning, “What’s up? Talk to me.”

Several seconds later, Cicely finally spoke. “Seth, did you know Danielle is

moving out of the Ellis household today?”

This time Seth fell silent for a few moments before responding, “I know.”

Cicely looked at the note in her hand and asked further, “She said she found an

apartment for herself. Do you know where it is?”

“Yes.Cicely slowly set down the paper in her hand, rose from the couch, and made

her way toward the front door. “Where are you right now?”

Seth was silent for a moment before replying, “Cicely, whatever it is, let’s talk

about it in three days.”

The door was left ajar. Cicely reached the foyer and halted in her tracks. “Why

wait three days?”

After several seconds of silence, she hung up the call and stepped outside. She

walked up to the tall, rigid figure standing with his back to the door.

Danielle slammed the trunk of her car shut and turned around, her face freezing

as her eyes landed on Cicely.

Enter title…

Cicely forced a smile, her voice laced with a mocking cheer, “Can’t we talk

now?”d2

Seth, who had been clutching his phone, paused for a second before turning

around. He towered over Cicely now, but as he turned, his gaze locked

immediately with hers. He knew precisely the angle to catch her eyes.

Cicely faced him with a small smile, her tone neither warm nor fiery as she

looked up at him.

He squared his shoulders, looked at her indifferently, and asked flatly, “What

brings you out here?”

Cicely blinked, chuckled softly, and glanced at Danielle approaching from

behind, raising an eyebrow. “Should I escort her?”

That was a laugh. Everyone knew Cicely and Danielle were at odds. So much

so that even if today were Danielle’s funeral, Cicely might not bother to show up.

Now, just for Danielle moving out, Cicely coming to see her off? Even a fool

wouldn’t believe it. Clearly, Seth didn’t either.

Cicely laughed outright, “Don’t believe me?” It was evident her mood was

anything but light, contrary to her facade.

“Just like I don’t buy the too-busy-for-you boyfriend suddenly having time to

personally pick up my nemesis.” Each of Cicely’s words dripped with biting

sarcasm.

Danielle disliked Cicely, and every flaw of hers was magnified in Danielle’s eyes.

“Cicely, can you drop the sarcasm?”

“Sarcasm?” Cicely gave her a dismissive glance, “Compared to you, I’m tame.

Can’t handle it? Then you should realize just how annoying you usually are.”

“You…”

“You get in the car.” Seth’s voice, deep and icy, cut through the tension. Though

he faced Cicely, Danielle knew the command was for her.

Biting her lip, Danielle moved to the passenger side door and opened it.

“Danielle, wait.” Cicely’s sudden call halted her.

Turning around, Danielle saw Cicely step past Seth toward her, “Even if he’s

decided to take you today, you don’t have the right to sit shotgun, got it?”

The humiliation surged through Danielle, “Cicely, you’re going too far!”

Cicely’s lips twisted into a mocking smile, her beautiful eyes cold, “This is too

far? Danielle, just being near you without an incident makes me feel like I’m the

most benevolent person on earth. A slap is all you got. Do you see how

magnanimous I am?”

Danielle stepped back, wary.

Seth turned, his gaze falling on the handprint still visible on Danielle’s face, and

his eyes darkened. “Get in the car.”

His voice, colder now than before, prompted Danielle to fully open the door.

Cicely’s smile was replaced by an icy expression as she stepped forward, only

to be grabbed by Seth. She watched Danielle take the passenger seat.

After a few seconds, Cicely looked back at Seth with a faint, almost invisible

smile. “Want to discuss now what you planned for three days from now?”

As she spoke, she stepped back, her eyes on his hand on her arm. “Afraid I

might do something to her?”

Catching her gaze, Seth’s grip loosened, and he moved his hand slightly

downward. Where he had been holding her, the blood rushed to the surface,

leaving a distinct red mark on her pale arm. Cicely glanced at it, “You hurt me

for another woman. I’ll remember that.”

Twisting her arm, she pulled away, retreating a step with a cool voice. “Go on,

you grabbed me so tightly, you better have something earth-shattering to say, or

I’ll hold you doubly accountable.”

The butler, sensing trouble, had followed outside.

Seth looked directly at him, “Her arm’s hurt. Take her back and apply some

ointment.”

The butler frowned deeply.

The car window rolled down, and Danielle’s face appeared. “Cicely, he came to

pick me up because Patty asked him to. Don’t you trust your man?”

The butler’s face turned even grimmer, but he stepped forward toward Cicely.

“Miss.”

Cicely chuckled lightly, “Don’t play these childish games of misdirection. What if

I booked a hotel room to ‘just chat’ with your future husband? I’d hope you’d

trust him enough then.”

Standing before Cicely, Seth’s expression darkened instantly. “Cicely,” his voice

turned colder, matching his demeanor.

“Uh-huh?” Cicely turned her gaze from Danielle to Seth, a feigned smile on her

lips. “Patty sent you to pick her up? And that house in the prime P City district,

the same neighborhood, was that Patty’s idea too?”

Seth’s gaze intensified on her radiant face, “I’m not in the mood for your games

today. I have to take her away personally. If you really want to make a scene,

save it for three days from now. You can have your outburst then.”

Cicely touched the spot where Seth’s grip had pained her, her expression

mocking, “You mean I should hold back? But I’m angry now, and I can’t wait. I

want to vent now, and in three days, there will be new anger waiting.”

Seth’s brow furrowed, “Suit yourself.” His voice managed to be as cold as his

very presence.

Cicely’s brow quirked with a hint of mischief, then she nodded with a smile that

was all sweetness and light. She stood with a grace that seemed as natural as

the breeze, her voice soft and melodious, “Of course.”

Seth gave her a cursory glance, his expression unreadable as he strode past

the shiny car, swung open the door, and slid into the driver’s seat. Without a

moment’s hesitation, he fired up the engine and pulled away.

The butler’s face was a study in concern, his usually composed features

betraying a flicker of worry. With Mr. Diaz’s temper, if Cicely were to truly end up

with him, and if she maintained this current demeanor, would it truly be for the

best?

As Cicely stood there, gaze lingering on the receding car, the butler stepped

forward and softly called out. “Miss…”

“Brody.” Cicely cut him off suddenly, “Where’s Issac?”

Brody paused for a brief moment, “I’ll give him a call and have him here right

away.”

“Mhm.”

Cicely’s response was nonchalant as she turned and walked into the living

room, her face betraying none of the drama that had just unfolded.

Issac, Brody’s son, had been just as dedicated to the Ellis family as his father

was.

Five minutes later, Issac’s tall and imposing figure appeared before Cicely. She

was lounging on the sofa, half-watching the TV when she saw him, and greeted

him with a playful smile, “Issac, you’re looking more dashing each day.”

Having been raised to understand the nuances of respect and hierarchy, Issac

didn’t react much to Cicely’s teasing. His reply was formal, “Is there something

you require, Miss?”

“Oh, there is.”The silence was deafening as they drove on.

Danielle shot glances at Seth, who sat enveloped in an aura of brooding

aloofness, making her lose whatever courage she had mustered to strike up a

conversation.

But then again, what was there to talk about? Any attempt at small talk would

just be her trying to fill the uncomfortable void between them, and likely, would

only serve to embarrass herself.

After much deliberation and hesitation, she found a topic that seemed safe

enough. “Sorry for the trouble,” she muttered.

Seth remained quiet.

Enter title…

Even though she was accustomed to his coldness, Danielle couldn’t shake off

the feeling of awkwardness that crept over her. Biting her lip, she turned her

face away, looking out the window.d2

“We don’t have any bad blood between us. Can’t you drop the silent treatment?

Just because you’re with Cicely doesn’t mean you can’t talk to other women,

right? She was so possessive today, like she couldn’t stand you being around

any other woman. Do you think that’s normal?”

Finally, Seth responded, glancing at her briefly, his voice indifferent, “So, you’re

okay with your man having other women around?”

Danielle was taken aback, “Even monks can’t turn away women who come to

worship at the temple.”

There was a brief silence before Seth chuckled darkly, a fleeting shadow

crossing his eyes. “Too bad I’m not a monk.”

Danielle thought he misunderstood her, “You’re not one to make your life

difficult. Being with her, bound so tightly, doesn’t it wear you down? She’s only

going to bring more trouble your way.”

“Danielle,” Seth said, his hand casually resting on the steering wheel, his

posture relaxed, “Gossiping behind someone’s back is in poor taste.”

She froze, a rush of heat flooding her face, then draining away leaving her pale.

Her hands clasped tightly in front of her, her voice quivered with barely

concealed sharpness, “And Cicely never talked behind my back?”

The traffic light turned red, and they stopped. Seth glanced at her, the slight

curve of his eyes and lips sending a wave of discomfort through Danielle. He

was implying that Cicely was above such behavior.

“You didn’t have to come yourself today. You’re not always doing what Patty tells

you.”

If he was truly obedient, he never would have agreed to be with Cicely in the

first place.

“It was unexpected that she found out. Picking you up…” Seth paused as the car

started moving again, and almost simultaneously, he continued, “I just thought it

would make you happy.”

Danielle’s heart skipped a beat. She stared at Seth’s profile, trying to decipher

something, anything, from his impassive face. “What do you mean by that? You

accuse me of speaking ill of Cicely, and now you want to make me happy. What

are you really thinking?”

Seth didn’t look at her, his lips curling into what seemed like a smile, but it sent a

chill down her spine instead. “Don’t overthink it, or you’ll just feel worse.”

Danielle couldn’t process his words, “What are you trying to say?!”

His gaze darkened, and he reverted to his usual indifference. “Everything has its

price. Just like obtaining something has its cost, debts must be repaid.”

She didn’t understand. “Why are you suddenly talking like this?”

They pulled into a high-end residential area, and Seth fell silent, his words

leaving Danielle with an unsettling feeling. She knew that no matter how much

she pressed, she would get no further answers.

Glancing at the rearview mirror, Seth drove into the underground parking of the

apartment complex. As Danielle stepped out of the car, a cacophony of engine

roars, brakes squealing, and car doors slamming resounded through the

garage. Several men in black suits, each wielding a metal bat, began to

approach.

“What… what are you doing.” Danielle’s voice trembled, her complexion ghostly

as she staggered backward.

Seth watched the unfolding scene through the mirror, then finally, stepped out of

the car.

Danielle rushed to his side, “Seth…”

He moved to the trunk, fixing his gaze on the men emerging from another car.

“What do you want?”

Issac, leading the suited men, nodded at Seth, “My apologies, Mr. Diaz. Ms.

Cicely is in a bad mood. She’s having a tantrum, and she said you agreed to

indulge her. So here I am, just following orders.”

Danielle’s face turned to ice upon seeing Issac, “So she throws a tantrum, and

you guys come chasing us down here?”

Issac didn’t reply, just shot her a cold glance.

Seth asked coolly, “How does she want to make a scene?”

Instead of answering, Issac signaled his men. They surged forward, raising their

metal bats, and began smashing Seth’s car into oblivion.

Danielle screamed, covering her head as the violence of metal against metal

and the shattering of glass echoed in the garage.

Seth stood by, watching impassively. Once the destruction seemed sufficient,

Issac ordered a halt. He then stepped forward, addressing Seth, “The lady says

the passenger seat is dirty, and she can’t use the car anymore. It’s as good as

junk, so might as well treat it like junk.”

At that, Seth looked at Issac, a hint of a smirk playing on his lips, “Is that so?

Seems wasteful because she’ll just have to smash a new one next time.”

Issac, uninterested in Seth’s quips, merely said, “I’ll report back then.” With that,

he and his men left as abruptly as they had arrived.

In the garage, other drivers watched, horrified.

Danielle, pale and trembling, crouched in the corner, arms wrapped around her

head, shaken to the core.

Seth cast a dismissive glance at the mangled wreck of the car, expressionless.

He turned on his heel. Seeing Danielle, who was visibly shaken, he said

indifferently, “Head upstairs.” With that, he pulled a suitcase from nearby and

slid it toward Danielle.

Danielle shivered, cautiously lifting her head to see that the menacing figures

had dispersed. Only then did she lower her hands from her head. Her hands,

cold and trembling, gripped the suitcase, her voice still quivering with shock.

“Aren’t you coming up?”

“I have other things to deal with.” Noticing her hesitant and still frightened look,

Seth added, “She’s just throwing a tantrum with me, and it won’t come down on

you. Don’t be scared, no one’s going to hassle you.”

Danielle’s grip on the suitcase handle tightened, and tears suddenly filled her

eyes. “Sending a mob to smash the car without a word, and that’s just her

throwing a tantrum? Is she some kind of mafia boss? And you just let her get

away with this?”

Seth furrowed his brow, his lips pressed thin, and he walked toward the elevator.

Danielle bit her lip and hurried after him. The elevator reached the ground floor,

and as the doors slid open, Seth stepped out without a backward glance or a

word to Danielle.

Cold and heartless.

People like him, probably never realize the invisible hurt they inflict on others.

Assistant Charlie came to whisk Seth away. “Mr. Diaz, are you sure about going

to the gala like this? If something goes wrong midway, how will you explain it to

madam? And Ms. Cicely, aren’t you going to give her a heads up.”

Seth’s gaze was downcast, shrouded in a thin veil of indistinction, his

expression unreadable. “She doesn’t need to know.”

Charlie chose not to speak further.

No one knew what Seth was truly thinking. How long would it take to fully

understand such a detached person?

Shaking his head silently, Charlie slightly sped up the car.

*

Issac returned to the Ellis estate, reporting the outcome of his mission to Cicely.

Cicely was lounging in the conservatory, nibbling on fruits and flipping through a

fashion magazine. Issac noted the trimmed branches and leaves beneath the

plants – a sign of careful pruning.

Hearing that Issac had completed his task, Cicely showed no surprise. Without

even looking up, her voice was slow and indolent. “Did he say anything?”

Issac relayed, “He said it was a waste, because you’re just going to keep on

smashing.”

Silence fell in the conservatory. After a while, Cicely closed the last page of the

magazine, tossing it onto the glass table in front of her. She picked up her

phone and dialed a number.

“Audrey’s Boutique? This is Cicely. Hold that new Hepburn-inspired dress for

me. No event to attend, just fancy it, hate to miss out. uh-huh. I’ll come by

tomorrow to pick it up.”

Ending the call, she tossed the phone onto the table and turned to Issac, who

was still standing there, with a smile. “Then keep smashing. Let’s see what

brand of car I can smash next time. I hope he doesn’t get some cheap car just to

appease me.”

Issac was speechless.

Cicely stood up and took a leisurely walk around the conservatory. “Joel brought

some Queen of the night from the base. He said he’d give me a couple. Run

over to his place and fetch them for me.”

Without hesitation, Issac agreed and left.

“Hold on,” Cicely called out as she approached him with a task in mind, “and

help me look into something.”

“What do you need?” Issac asked.

Cicely arched an eyebrow.

*

That evening, Seth was on a video call. The large screen displayed a multi-party

conference call. The man at the center of the screen, with his sharp features

and unmistakable poise, exuded an air of refined elegance even through the

digital interface.

It was he who spoke up in a cool, deep voice, “Need a hand?”

Seth, lounging in his chair, declined without hesitation. “No.”

“Damon, with his stubborn pride, he’ll suffer in silence. If I were you, I wouldn’t

even bother asking,” Kane commented, familiar with Seth’s temperament.

Damon’s expression remained unaffected, “Some experience is good. Let him

see how harsh and real the rules of survival in today’s society can be.”

scoffed, “More like he’s the one showing others how harsh and cruel

right? With his nasty temper, he’s probably dug the pit

trip

a fox” didn’t seem to cover Seth. His silent

the next, was

had never

on the call watched Seth, who was

day, you’ll

in defense, “No

it with a good old-fashioned brawl. Aren’t you

with your fists?”

call showed interest, “How good are we

was about to share when Seth’s phone rang. Glancing at

“If there’s nothing else, I’ll

phone, he

Patty on the line. As soon as he answered, she bombarded

on? Danielle told me your car got

furrowed, his tone

Patty’s voice was filled with unmasked

“It’s between her and me. The

Don’t bring

mean ‘between you two’?!” Patty’s voice

fit like that, sending goons

Get back here now.” In the background, Danielle’s

faintly heard, trying to calm Patty

up

on the screen, sent by Cicely an

on the car, Seth. I want to feel a

smash it.]

lips twisted into a wry smile, his cool detachment more pronounced

ever.

office and sliding into his car, Charlie

few seconds of silence, Seth said indifferently, “Take

Boutique.”

This was the first time

incongruous

epitome of luxury shopping.

prestigious labels. It

the true elites, went

engine, and with

back in Ms. Cicely’s good graces?”Charlie revved up the engine and, following his hunch, chuckled,

up Ms.

Seth’s brow, a flicker of

darkness of

*

couch with a

face etched with a

Danielle

Enter title…

this riled up was bound to backfire

Seth ignored her and

Danielle’s unease, stood up and glared

telling me, so if

Cicely having someone

truths Danielle

his suit jacket, and the housekeeper hurried to take

so her throwing a

done.”

The anger in

her being upset justifies smashing your

Seth, let me tell you once more,

you dare take it any further.

her. She’s throwing a tantrum, right? Perfect timing for you

break it off.”

into a cool half-smile, a hint of frost touching his dark gaze.

respond to Patty, instead, he turned to look

and chilling to

from outside. Patty felt a bit

appearance, but Seth spoke up.”I’ve got your

tomorrow’s gala ready.”

taken aback, not expecting this. Danielle stared

in Charlie’s hands.

a stiff smile. “Mr. Diaz picked this

Boutique before

in disbelief, Danielle looked to Seth for confirmation. Seth did not deny

a gala. You should prepare well.”

echoed Charlie’s claim.

the box to

coffee table, and carefully opened

dress with asymmetric shoulder straps

breast. It’s simple in

at the dress. She had envisioned

gown, not this understated, albeit high-end

She bit her lip, suppressing the name

slipped out.

Seth, “Thank

his way to get her

less…

like it, that’s all that matters,”

night.”

couldn’t fathom any reason for

show such thoughtfulness

he might refuse

to the gala. To her surprise, he agreed.

was achieved, so she

he was also concerned about Danielle

who had been doggedly pursuing her, even

her to several cities.

orchestrated by Ray, had

typically refuse without hesitation. However,

script auctions—plays, musicals,

screenwriters, producers, and actors in attendance offered

open to

keen on establishing herself in the theatrical industry, saw it

Ray, she didn’t want

Ray seizing the chance to pester her,

or intimidate

any trouble from Ray at the gala and to make him back off,

of her “knight in shining armor.” She had

if necessary, but

only did he agree, but he went as far

her.

you drive

“Sure thing.”

gone upstairs, Patty furrowed her brow. She felt as if there

important they

whom the dress suited best,

Seth for the first time was enough to make

remembered what topic

darkened as she glanced at the clock, deciding not

pursue Seth further.

*

milk, Cicely

be epic. Mr.

coffee table, and the cup made

the mobile phone screen for

relaxed a bit. [Tell me what

the staircase

reaching her bedroom, she made a beeline for

towel slung over her shoulders, her hair

dripping.

a message from Issac. [The Peck

party. It’s a high-profile

to go but is

asked

phone onto

to blow-dry

five minutes, Cicely reappeared, her

the bed, distracted herself with a

hair felt almost

she woke feeling groggy,

dozed off again.

up close to ten, she went downstairs after

the butler, noting her listless appearance, couldn’t help but

you feeling unwell?”

had just taken a stroll outside, set down his water

the words.

the stairs, leaning on the banister, “I’m fine,

of seasons. Caught

to instruct the cook to prepare some ginger

a hearty meal and her tea, Cicely changed into warmer clothes: a kneelength black

slender legs. She paired it with a black

accents added a

charm.

outfit for the day, “Heading

a dress I liked, want to see it in

“You’re feeling better?”

“Much.”

heaviness in her head, she felt

“Have Issac go

“Alright.”

*

Cicely headed straight for

dress the day before.

Cicely, welcome back,” the sales associate greeted

her as a

Cicely browsed the store before

night, I’d

prompting Cicely to raise an

problem?”

at

room, and the associate couldn’t hide

admiration and envy.

open, the other

“Ms. Cicely, you look

dress.”

the new product had just arrived, and when

as particularly stunning. The design was simple,

the price was surprisingly high. The

thing that seemed valuable was probably

would sell at all,

called to reserve it. They marveled at the

understand.

wearing it, they

simple design was transformed into something

anyone could

by the Ellis family, even if Cicely were to wear mere rags, she’d

look elegant and sophisticated.

high-end parties and casual

with

turning to check the

nodded, “I’ll

dress, Cicely disappeared back into the

reappeared dressed in her

listed the prices and handed over

the mentioned amount and seeing only a single bag, Cicely

in query, “Has there been some kind

The cashier blinked, “Pardon?”

interjected, “What seems to be

Cicely?”

on the counter, “You forgot to

included. That dress should earn you

commission.”

associate paused, then asked with some

you? Do you

“I believe I only reserved one

and I didn’t receive it. What do you mean

‘another’?”

associate,

quickly laughed, “My mistake.

you’d sent him to pick it

with matters unrelated to her.

same dress, but who it was didn’t

it up. I’ll pay by

signaled to the cashier, who swiped

that would sustain an

packaged the dress, another whispered, “Are we

one? The one

Maybe Mr. Seth hasn’t had the chance to give it to her yet.

wouldn’t we be spoiling

two

know?”

she’s short on cash? Besides, it’s not like

it. If we speak up, it’s bad news. If we don’t,

making an extra sale. We’re all sharp cookies here. A

nobody’s going to give us

that, the associate took the packaged bag

Cicely, she added, “We’ve only stocked two of

a way, you could say it’s

right?”

took the bag from behind. Cicely, however, just

and

deceit. They claimed

tailor-made now? Did they

kind of brainless

the boutique. Instead,

of heels that would match the dress perfectly. After all,

a dress pop. Sure,

felt it was

used to them.

pain, and a little bloodshed, one day she’d master them

beautiful.Having chosen the shoes and settled the bill, she walked through

the store, intending to browse a bit more before leaving. However,

encountered someone she thought

easily.

she was, the very woman she had slapped

a bench, trying on a pair

chains.

met, and an unmistakable mutual distaste

at the sandals the woman was trying on

couldn’t help but smirk.

Enter title…

expression darkened. She stood

check out

brings you here?” It was

Cicely.d2

boredom etched on her face as she

the mirror. “Stalking

meeting her gaze

“Is that the

respond. Cicely gave her

display case, picking

I’m doing here is none of your

other. Isn’t

on the display and walked out

Danielle staring coldly after her in

Danielle exchanged

such disdain in public was something

the Ellis family, this frank and

couldn’t be adequately

gaze of the two sales associates

wave of embarrassment suddenly

…

Cicely

being held?”

her, Issac replied, “At

Imperial Bay.”

arched an eyebrow, “That’s quite an

Issac didn’t respond.

hard to get in?”

glanced at her from the side, “You

invitation.”

event have to be that my

After a few seconds of silence, she

“Alright then.”

she pulled out her

the time Cicely reached home, Creighton was waiting for

table lay a black,

Cicely said, picking up the invite with a

lips. “You know it’s just going to be a headache for

right? Why go?”

a fancy shindig? Never been to

“Just don’t cause any scenes.

drama private.”

I’d make a scene,” Cicely scoffed, though her words

conviction.

that Creighton had stopped speaking,

family hasn’t directly

connections

in P City aren’t extensive,

script auction at the banquet succeeds, it

Aside from significantly boosting

involved,

required for constructing

all are major components. Once these

inevitably concern the Ellis family,

of

my attention that Mr. Diaz had a keen interest

solely on his merits.

in a leadership role for

his individual efforts alone, it’s

access to

hadn’t initially attached much significance

she was struck by how naive

interest piqued. “Seth wanted to go and got

didn’t even know how to get an

with a hint

at the

with just a phone

confusion, Brody decided to add more,

Mr. Diaz

what

father for

somewhat lethargic mind was perhaps a bit foggy. Various messy

each

knotted. Her complexion wasn’t

sensing her confusion, added, “Mr. Diaz is

a reason. Perhaps he had

excused herself. “I need

Cicely ascended the stairs, Creighton and the

sure about letting her go? She smashed Mr.

the butler

I forbid her, she might level the house in

evening approached, and luxury cars snaked their way to

Bayview Haven. While the

opulent

security, a testament

event.

the Maserati rolled smoothly into the

trouser leg followed by a tall, lean

the car. Under the glow of the streetlights, his

his eyes sweeping casually across the passenger side.

he strode over

door.

out, flashing Seth a muted smile. Her

her makeup was of

took a step back, opting to close the

disappointment

into step

their invitation at the entrance, Danielle instinctively

Seth’s. The staff glanced at them both,

let

entirely on

or annoyance, but he remained composed all the way to

grand hall.

her arm in his, that the stiffness

at the reception—too young amongst a sea of

spent lifetimes earning their place. Some

way up in society. How could they compete with

summit?

that young man the

the Ellis family? How could he come here

lasted just for a

floated around, mentioning the Ellis family

princess of

who had been waiting for Danielle to arrive, approached as soon

“Danielle.

slightly as she gripped Seth’s arm tighter and

to him.

unabashedly scrutinizing Seth. They were

the same field, and

fathom why Seth would show up

instead of Cicely.

pursuing, the one he had

to tonight’s event. Yet here she was, on

simmered

uncomfortable with Ray’s

you for the invitation. Without it,

had the chance to meet so many esteemed directors and

admired, and Ray was no exception. “Just the

beamed. “Come, let me introduce

closer, Danielle instinctively tried to dodge, but

on Seth, and after a few seconds, he

“Why are

narrowed slightly, a faint smile on his lips.

lady to be here on her own. She was like a sister to me, I

to accompany

had said. She knew Patty had sent Seth

possibly discourage Ray’s advances. Now what Seth

on Ray’s pestering

this, Ray paused for a moment, turned to

seemed to flash through his mind. He blinked awkwardly

surprisingly remained silent.

turned to Danielle, suggesting softly, “This is

him and meet

hesitated, “What about

Just stay in the hall, and I’ll be within

voice unusually tender.

let go of Seth’s arm reluctantly. Ray

moment, she accepted it.

Seth, then led Danielle into the

glanced back to see Seth smiling reassuringly, allowing her to

and return the smile.

drinks brushed against Seth, prompting a

Danielle, but Seth

and Danielle

Danielle mingled, he complimented her,

I’ve never seen you dressed like this before. You seem

stiffened once more,

gaze lingered on Danielle as

uncomfortable.

is Director Suarez, of the stage play ‘The Maiden.’ You

with his

her eyes lighting up

faced the man before her, whose hair had silvered with

it’s a pleasure to meet you. I’m a budding stage actress,

your

a passing waiter and ordered

tray and handed the

handed one

way to a

glitz and glamour of the party’s

gentlemanly

dirty heart was

the same.

completely swept away

radiating happiness. She genuinely loved the

*

woke up a bit late, and

it was a bit

the banquet had not

the car, Cicely had already handed the

to be let in, Issac’s voice came

me to accompany

glanced at him and smiled,

why she suddenly complimented him, but he soon

that, but what if people think you’re my boyfriend?”

widened, “He’s also here, and even

will talk. It could make him

“He’s brought Danielle with him tonight. As for

probably already the subject of their gossip. If that’s the

to make

an unexpected weight of emotion.

upset, even angry.

of his emotions,

isn’t as harmonious as it seems. It’s not safe

you. Miss, let me accompany

concern, Cicely declined the offer. “Really, I’ll be fine. If

up, I’ll

reassuring smile, she turned and headed towards

into a boutique hotel for the evening’s soiree. She was

heels she had bought earlier

slightly unsteady.

Enter title…

ornate entrance, the bright

the path ahead. Silhouettes of guests mingled and moved

paused just outside the doors, shifting her weight from

straightening her posture

unnoticed. But there she was: a woman

and delicate that she captured attention effortlessly.

the threshold, it was inevitable that

admiration, more

the entrance, caught

could approach, whispers

the crowd.

darling? Why

boyfriend just

Her man

is, solo at a party. What if they run

never cared for how others perceived her. And

of gossip, but even so, the deliberately

comments made her uncomfortable.

a few more steps forward, then looked up

on her. He was

first encounter of the evening could be

had expected, especially compared to the prospect

by side

of her eyebrow, she walked

car did you bring

sharp as he

nodding in approval.

your old Benz, I

gaze seemed to intensify, his voice

Now.”

out a soft chuckle. “What’s

or are you afraid my

public

one

to be deceived by appearances. But

your mother, I’m the closest person to

I have, you can use, and I wouldn’t mind. You could have

to tonight’s gala from my

Danielle. Knowing it would upset me,

trouble

an explanation, but right now, you need to leave this

expression was a mix of impatience and irritation, his

unequivocal command.

send

hiding, Seth?”

are

of everyone’s attention, approached out of curiosity, only to find

could reply, Danielle’s voice cut through the air, drawing

just a glance, she felt as if a bucket of ice

head, leaving her

watched Cicely with some

gradually turned grim. The dresses on both

the styles worn by the

the dress, Danielle had chosen an elegant updo and

crisp and clean look. In

bright

that

was impossible to deny that Cicely had

complexion soured with

from Danielle back to Seth, she suddenly

me this is why you’re in such a hurry to get rid of

to pick out that dress for

furrowed, but he remained silent. Cicely didn’t

“I am furious right now, but I

leave with me now or we can step outside to talk

private.”

together, fighting the throbbing in

hand, leading her

and reached out to him, “Seth, are you going to

here all alone?”

hand,

beautiful face darkened

to an isolated spot near the villa, beside a large,

chilly voice, “If you

make it quick.”

be made quick,”

lowered his gaze to her, his face was

sharp sting of a slap. The sound echoed crisply by the

hand that throbbed from the impact, “No wonder when I

dress, the salesperson had this mysterious look and told

dress was like getting a personalized one. At first, I

know it

sneered. “They

me, and the secrecy was because you wanted to

me. Hah.”

Cicely felt so aggrieved. No,

after all these years of her father dividing his affection

it had never hurt like this. Her heart felt

constricted.

let out a bitter laugh, “Starting tomorrow, I’ll be the joke

Everyone will know that the surprise

the punchline? The dress she flaunts was

man while the one I’m wearing? Bought with my own cash, and to top

we’re clashing at the same

her feel

threat of tears, her eyes

look in Seth’s eyes melted away in

not once in my life. Before I

you had to bring Danielle tonight. I

convinced

But even with all your

a dress for her? Could she have come to the

without your dress?”

excuse should

might burst into tears any

his voice husky,

home.”

and stared at

her arm, intent on forcibly removing

her voice cool and detached, “Are

escorting me home? If not, let

outside for you? Call him

take you myself.”

sank,

Seth didn’t.

This time, he

heavy, and her feet ached

for you to escort me. I’ll call Isaac,

to the party without

up, his face set in

was flat, without a trace of emotion, “I said, put me

her request, his deep voice echoing. “I

me. But since you keep saying you like me, you’ll have

I bring to the banquet today or whatever rumors come

that if I truly choose another woman, I

any more time

eyelids twitched, her long lashes

thank you for not dumping

promise to

lightly.”

should just endure it all? Do

you do, I won’t

down at her, “Don’t you like me? Is this the

in me? I said I wouldn’t leave you easily, and I meant it. Or

as a hypocrite?”

her eyes briefly, her head pounding, feeling a

throbbing pain. “Fine. I’m not feeling well right now, I don’t

and I certainly don’t want to see you anymore.

to pick

“Where does it hurt?”

“My head.”

Seth quickened his pace.

never felt

didn’t

as she was about to compromise and

He squinted in the dim light. Glancing at Cicely, who had just

eyes, he quickened

figure approached rapidly with a phone in hand. “Sir,

the woman in his arms, the

might actually

caught

gently put her down. “Call Isaac to

“My head is pounding, and you insisted on

was tense, “I have other matters to attend to now. Tell Isaac to

in for you.”

chance to respond, he turned on his

away.

stood dizzily, watching Seth’s retreating

indifference and irony.

gust of wind blew through the corridor, and

walking on sharp stones, so she bent down and took

off.

swath of light ahead, and turned

into a sofa in the rest area. Then she fished

not feeling well, my feet

walk out alone. Find a way

hung up. She sat for

approaching the front desk. The staff, noticing

asked softly, “Miss,

replied, “A cup

course, just

the short wait, across the lobby, near

to

was disheveled, her posture in disarray.

the other

wasn’t far, and she would never forget that

for as

go

you look so beautiful today. I

two scripts. One’s a stage play, coveted

with me, and I’ll give you the lead role, isn’t that

I bought it just

can land roles on my own merit,

How many in this industry actually get

work alone? You think you’re not an outcast in the Ellis

parents? The head of the Ellis family won’t treat you like his

my help, you might make it on your

least twenty years. Can you

changed ever so slightly.

wouldn’t associate

life.

none of your business. Let me

like you, and I can give

as she

irritation flooded her mind. Looking for someone to

sight of Cicely watching them. She hesitated, not wanting to ask

for help.

staff member brought some water over, glanced

looked away, pretending to

walked over to the sofa in the

staff seemed

seeing such scenes, would

livelihoods than provoke the ire

of

Cicely frowned and

in the man’s embrace, his head buried in her

Disgusting.

“Help! Cicely!”

breath, grabbed the high heel

over. She raised the shoe

Ray’s head.

in pain, pushing Danielle away

the other. “How dare

unnaturally hot.

he was in his right mind, he wouldn’t

recklessly.

the gravity of the situation yet unable to free

a room. Staggering,

Danielle.

looked panicked, standing in place and staring at

her expression turned even more startled. She understood what

watched the now irrational man, she shook her head,

and finally turned around. Covering

panic, she ran away.

closing echoed behind her. Danielle paused,

saw the corridor had returned to its eerie

Danielle hurried away from the ballroom, a group

her tracks, her face betraying a flurry

panic.

major event, attended by several renowned industry

media outlets. With the script auction

press was crucial to generate buzz for

events, entertainment reporters were

to smooth out her dress and tidy her

to the side, hoping to inconspicuously make

group, pretending that

Enter title…

You

waiter, followed by

were questioning him excitedly.

an expression of mild distress but

who’s been shadowing Mr.

that lady is now looking for her.

let’s hope nothing serious

the waiter’s words and her

her head, attempting to blend into the

waiter caught sight of her first, his expression

succeeded? Or

prevent it?d2

are you alright?” he asked, his voice

been identified, Danielle shook

nothing’s wrong.

a barely noticeable frustration before

that the gentleman who

I happened to see you assisting Mr. Ray

something might have happened.”

a whirlwind of panic, barely registered the

she muttered a thanks and tucked

her ear, trying to sound calm, “I’m

as Seth’s figure appeared at the

behind,

waiter’s for a fleeting second. In

darkened. He had failed.

the reporters who had sniffed

disappointed.

sound of her

she called

journalists who had been about to leave stopped in their tracks at

ever so slightly as he gently

with an air of detachment. Looking down at

Who

no scandal caught in the

salvage the situation.

her

flickered through Seth’s eyes, gone in an instant. “Since you’re

to the ballroom. You must be

script auction.”

shook her head, “No need, the

unwell. Let’s go

her for a moment before nodding, “Alright,

onto Seth’s arm. As they passed the

she glanced down the hallway, biting her lip, her

tightening.

asked, turning to

with

had derailed the entire plan, but

patiently stick with her through

his failure.

gaze downward, her heart pounding wildly

Emotions

swirled within her.

the Ellis family learn that she had intentionally abandoned

they would possibly detest her. Yet,

desire to utterly ruin Cicely far outweighed

actually kill her, but Cicely

would tarnish the reputation of P City’s

her. More importantly, Seth would never want

Cicely’s character, she would

for the title and status being Miss

either. She had been overshadowed

she had