The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride
Chapter 2001-2010
Watching them leave, Danielle’s hands clenched a little tighter, the stiffness
betraying her anxiety. She wished she hadn’t rushed back, longing instead to
present the birthday gift she had carefully chosen for him in person. Even a
chilly acceptance would have been preferable to having Cicely snatch it away
like she just had.
Seeing Cicely punch in the door code with practiced ease, as Seth Diaz stood
by, a chill shot through Danielle. Birthday, late night, two people and the scent of
alcohol on their breath…All these elements seemed to weave a narrative she
didn’t dare to read.
Maybe things were moving too fast between them. She couldn’t imagine Seth,
with his frosty demeanor, ever getting cozy with Cicely.
Enter title…
How could someone so cool and detached treat a woman with tenderness?
Danielle bit her lip hard, squashed down those thoughts, and stepped into the
elevator.
*d2
Back at home, Seth helped Cicely onto the couch.
Kicking off her shoes, Cicely watched as Seth came over to help her out of her
coat. It seemed like a routine she was well accustomed to. She lifted her arms
and tilted her head, her attention on the gift box in her hands.
“She came back just for your birthday, huh?”
Seth unzipped her down jacket, slid off one sleeve, and gave her a look that
was as unreadable as ever.
She switched the gift box to her other hand so he could remove her coat. As he
went to hang it up, she leaned back into the couch, inspecting the box, turning it
over in her hands. “You know, with her putting in so much effort and openly
making advances towards you, can I pretend not to care?”
Should she continue the charade, even when Danielle had already abandoned
it?
Seth approached her, looking down from his greater height, “There’s nothing
between her and me.”
Cicely gave a half-laugh, “You expect me not to worry about her?”
She rattled the box in her hand. “Even if you’re clear about it now, receiving gifts
on every special occasion is a bit much.”
His gaze finally landed on the box in her hands. Moments later, he snatched it
away and tossed it into the trash with a clang. “Satisfied?”
Cicely glanced at the trash can, smirked, and looked up at him with eyes that
twirled with mischief. “I’m dizzy.”
He smirked, “Are you trying to tell me that the dizziness from drinking comes
and goes?”
Cicely didn’t care, she just stretched out her arms towards Seth, “Take me to the
bedroom.”
Seth’s eyes narrowed, pausing on the skin of her neck.
Her arms moved slightly, urging him on. He looked away and finally lifted her in
his arms. He laid her down on the bed and Cicely curled up, supporting her
head with a slender arm. The hem of her burgundy dress had ridden up
carelessly, revealing the elegant lines of her legs. She gazed up at him, smiling.
“Seth, I’m drunk tonight, so you can take advantage of me if you want.”
The dark fire in his eyes was barely contained, even as they roamed over her.
Her beauty tonight was more striking than usual, the dress accentuating her
flawless figure.
At eighteen, she had the kind of allure that stirred envy in women and desire in
men. The way those men had looked at her tonight when she had taken off her
coat had left him feeling unsettled.
Cicely’s teasing had been light-hearted at first, but now the intensity of Seth’s
gaze was making her surprisingly nervous.
“Shall we take a shower?” His voice was huskier than she expected.
She nodded, “Sure.”
He continued to watch her. She didn’t move.
Finally, Seth bent down and carried her into the bathroom.
He had never intended to rush things now that she was of age. She must have
known that, which was why she felt so bold in teasing him.
He hadn’t been with a woman before and, at his age, men were particularly
vulnerable to such temptations. Perhaps she overestimated his self-control. Or
maybe, it was just her self-control she overestimated.
After the shower, Cicely felt like a cooked shrimp, her body limp and energy
sapped. She’d been seen entirely, touched almost thoroughly. Now in the soft
embrace of her bed, she breathed a sigh of relief, thinking her only task was to
sleep.
But she was wildly mistaken.
Seth pinched her chin, “Sobered up yet?”
She nodded, “Yes.”
His eyes swept her exposed skin and his lips curled into a slight smile. “Even if
you weren’t drunk, you know our relationship is such that I could take liberties
with you whenever I wish, right?”
Cicely blinked, “Yes, I know. So, is it time to sleep now?”
Seth raised an eyebrow, “Do you think the episode in the bathroom was
enough?”Cicely’s eyelids fluttered twice, betraying her effort to seem indifferent. “Or
what?”
Seth’s gaze drifted to her lips, “I think I made a mistake.”
Cicely furrowed her brows in confusion.
“I shouldn’t have just thought about keeping you like some naive doll, hidden
away. You need to see the harsh realities of the world to understand the
dangers that exist.”
Cicely was no fool; she could see through some people and situations better
than they could ever imagine. She always maintained a sense of vigilance,
Enter title…
aware of potential threats at any given moment. “There’s no need, I’m well
aware.”
“Are you?”d2
As he spoke, Cicely suddenly gasped, her eyes darting towards Seth in a slight
panic. His hand had stealthily slipped under the covers, his intentions crystal
clear. She instinctively recoiled.
“You not gonna let me touch you?”
“You are you serious?”
She was convinced he wouldn’t really sleep with her now.
“Isn’t your idea of ‘impropriety’ a bit naive?”
Cicely bit her lip, her beautiful eyes filled with timidness, “I’ve heard it hurts, and
I’m afraid of the pain.”
“So you’re planning to spend your life just letting me look and touch?”
Cicely’s eyes darted about, and before she could utter a word, Seth leaned in
closer, his presence enveloping her. “Don’t you want to have kids? Just looking
and touching won’t make that happen.”
Her grip on the covers relaxed slightly, and the tension in her body eased.
Seth’s lips curled into a satisfied smirk.
“Seth.” Cicely suddenly spoke up, “You’re raping me, aren’t you?”
Seth’s expression darkened instantly, “You’re saying what?”
Cicely repeated, “Raping.”
“Cicely.” The hand under the covers suddenly grasped her leg, his voice deep
and icy, “What do you think the purpose of that marriage certificate you’re
holding is?”
“To legally live together.”
“That includes legally having sex with you.”
Seth’s words were ground out through clenched teeth, each syllable as if
chewed up and spit out. His frankness was unexpected, almost shocking, but it
was precisely this rawness that made it all the more enticing.
Cicely had likely angered him; his words hit her like a physical force, stealing
her breath away. Before, she might not have thought much about it, but the topic
that just irked him was a sensitive one, and she felt a surge of nervousness.
Cicely was fresh from a bath, her skin soft and scented.
Underneath the covers, the restraint from the bathroom was returning with a
vengeance. The kiss was forceful, wandering down her neck to the tender spot
behind her ear, teasing her earlobe.
Cicely whimpered softly. Seth paused, staring at her flushed ear before bending
down again. When she shivered once more, a low chuckle escaped Seth.
Interesting.
Cicely felt he was mocking her inexperience. So she clenched her teeth,
determined not to be the butt of his amusement anymore. Seth seemed to be in
a playful mood, his kisses searching for her most sensitive spots.
The covers were pushed down, sparks slowly nearing the summit. Cicely,
sensing something, tried to escape, but Seth was ahead of her, anticipating her
move.
A sensation shot through her. Her arms, which had been propping her up,
suddenly lost their strength, and with a soft exclamation, she fell back into the
bedding.
This was madness. The feeling was foreign and uncontrollable. Her heart felt
like it was about to leap out of her chest.
The man before her was the man she loved, yearned for, the one she had
schemed to win over.
Unlike with Ray, she enjoyed his touch, even craved more. She truly loved him.
But why did she love him so much? She couldn’t even understand it herself. She
just wanted him, and no one else would do.
Slowly, she raised her hand to caress his damp hair, her palm resting against
his face, that handsome face lifting to meet her gaze. As if under a spell, she
leaned in closer to him, closing the gap between them. “Seth, why do I love you
so much?” she asked.
Seth threw aside the covers, realizing that tonight wouldn’t be so easily endured.
He was somewhat relieved she was of age. Perhaps if she weren’t, she wouldn’t
be able to escape him tonight.
Boundaries? Her specialty was pushing him to break them, time and time again.
“Why?” he asked as he pulled her into his embrace.
Cicely wrapped her arms around his shoulders, shaking her head, “I don’t know.
Do you know how much I love you?”
“How much?” Seth inquired.
Cicely tilted her head, giving the same answer, “I don’t know.”
Seth looked up at her, “You don’t know why you love me, and you don’t know
how much?”
She nodded, “Yeah. I don’t know. If I did, maybe one day I could avoid loving
you so much.”
Seth paused for a moment, “Even if you knew, it’s too late.”
He pressed her back down into the bedding.
One of the reasons they didn’t live together and he refrained from getting
physically close to her was because of her young age. He also considered the
possibility that she might regret and want to exit the marriage at any time, but he
had never truly hoped for such a day.
As he struggled internally, he gave her enough time. Now, her words suddenly
reminded him that he couldn’t allow it. She might not love him as much as she
did now, and she might truly disappear from his life.
He wouldn’t permit such a thought, not even for a second. So he decided he
wouldn’t leave her that option anymore.Seth never thought he’d see the day when Cicely would scare the living
daylights out of him. It happened in a moment of breakthrough.
Cicely’s scream nearly pierced his eardrums. Then came a convulsion, her face
turned as pale as a ghost, almost translucent.
“Ouch. Seth, are you trying to kill me?” Tears cascaded down Cicely’s cheeks, a
relentless torrent.
Sweat beaded on Seth’s forehead as he gritted his teeth, staring at her
seemingly lifeless form, torn between staying and fleeing. But then, she
furrowed her brow and uttered a pained cry.
“Ouch, don’t move.”
Enter title…
Seth, restraining himself, remained still. His hand found her forehead, his head
lowered to hers, his voice strained and husky. “Does it hurt that bad?”d2
Cicely bit her lip, eyes closed, with eyelids and lashes trembling together. She
nodded randomly, perhaps feeling overwhelmed by pain, and choked back a
sob with a couple of stifled sobs.
Time passed, and perhaps the pain had ebbed slightly, Cicely opened her eyes,
her cheeks flushed with a returning rosiness, but her eyes were rimmed red with
distress.
“Feeling better?”
Cicely gave a tiny nod, followed by a sniffle, “Is it this painful for every girl the
first time, or is it just your lousy technique ?”
Seth fell silent. The urge to throttle her surged within him.
After a moment of silence, Cicely inhaled sharply.
Seth rose and headed to the bathroom.
Cicely felt uneasy, the foreign sensation still distinct, the pain all too real. She
lay in bed, afraid to move. Watching Seth leave, her worry gnawed at her—had
their utterly unromantic “first time” left him utterly disillusioned?
Had he gone for good? Was he unsatisfied? Angry?
Alone in bed, she spiraled into helpless speculation. Would he seek comfort with
other women now?
Cicely blinked. This was serious.
When Seth returned from the bathroom with a towel, he found the woman in bed
biting her finger, lost in thought. He frowned, “What’s on your mind?”
Cicely turned quickly, shaking her head. “Nothing.”
Seth gave her a long look and then sat down beside her. His hand reached for
her leg.
Cicely protested with a whimper, trying to evade, “What are you doing?”
“Don’t move.” His tone was indifferent. He leaned down with the towel, and the
warmth of it touched her skin. Cicely’s initial resistance melted away, but then
came the flush of embarrassment.
“If you don’t have the guts, stop talking big. You were quick to talk about having
kids, and now you’re even shy for me to have a look?”
Indeed. But she couldn’t help it.
“It’s the first time…” her voice was barely audible.
“Yeah, I’ll give you time to adjust.”
Seth wiped carefully, the pure white towel now marked with stark red stains.
After he was done, Seth checked her over carefully, then looked up, his dark
eyes heavy with an emotion that seemed too thick to dissolve. “Still hurts?”
“It’s better.”
Hearing that, Seth stood up, picked her up, and placed her on the couch nearby.
Cicely was puzzled, lying there as Seth draped a blanket over her and turned
away without a word.
She grabbed the edge of his bathrobe, her expression pitiable, “You’re not
making me sleep on the couch as punishment for not satisfying you, are you?”
Seth grimanced, and he gently removed her hand, “Yeah, indeed it was less
than satisfying.”
“So once I’m not in pain…” Cicely’s gaze followed Seth anxiously.
Dissatisfaction in bed could spell disaster for a marriage.
“Of course, that’s how it is. You think you’ve fulfilled your duty in one go?” Seth
cut her off, but paused at the bedside to strip the sheets.
Cicely watched as he skillfully replaced the bedding with fresh linens. This was
a task so distant from his usual repertoire, yet he executed it with surprising
proficiency.
Hmm… The way he appeared all domestic was strangely attractive.
Once the bed was made, he carried her back and laid her down. Cicely’s eyes
crinkled with a smile, “Punishment over?”
Seth shot her a glance, “Next time, the punishment will last longer. Get some
sleep.” With that, he pulled the covers over her.
Taking the soiled linens, he disappeared into the bathroom. Before long, the
sound of running water filled the room.
A few minutes later, Seth emerged from the bathroom. He had taken another
shower and saw the woman lying there, with a pair of beautiful eyes staring at
him, “Why haven’t you slept yet?”
“Waiting for you.” Cicely patted the empty spot next to her.
Seth was not surprised. After all, they had sex and sharing a bed was natural.
He lifted the blanket and laid down. Cicely immediately snuggled up to him. She
rested on his arm, leaned into his chest, and wrapped her arms around his
waist.
Seth paused for a moment, looking down at her head for a few seconds, and
then he gave her his arm, his embrace, and his hand.
Cicely was particular about her bed and had never shared it with anyone. Seth
woke up before her, and she could feel when he got up. She felt disturbed and
frowned, but soon there was a sound at the door, and she was left alone in the
room.
All Cicely wanted now was peace, so she fell asleep again.
After some time, the door opened again. Hearing the noise, Cicely’s mind began
to vaguely remember the events of the previous night. She turned over, burying
half of her face into the soft pillow, lazily peeking through a slit in her eyes,
watching Seth dressing in front of the wardrobe.
Hearing her movement, he turned to her, “Stay home and rest today if you’re not
feeling well. I’ll call in sick for you.”
“Mmm…”
She hummed softly and closed her eyes again. Only when the rustling by the
wardrobe seemed to stop did she roll over and lazily lift her eyelids to look at
him.
The man was already impeccably dressed, his tall frame adorned with a crisp
white shirt and a dark suit, exuding an air of detached elegance.
Cicely sighed inwardly. He was every bit the man she adored.
“You’re not going to class today?”
“Clearly not.” Seth’s voice was cool as he approached, leaning in close, his
handsome face bringing a fresh, clean scent as he hovered over her.
His voice was a seductive whisper, his breath lightly caressing her face. “Does it
still hurt?”
Cicely’s ears turned pink, “Not anymore.”
A slight smirk graced Seth’s lips, “Are you sure?”
“I’m not too sure,” Cicely admitted with a touch of uncertainty.
Seth’s low chuckle rumbled from his throat, “Finally learned to back down, huh?”
“It’s called being wise,” Cicely retorted with a smirk.
“Uh huh, you always have the best excuses,” he teased.
Cicely smiled, reaching up to adjust his tie. “Got plans for today?”
“Not sure. If time allows, I might swing by the set for a bit.”
Cicely’s eyebrows arched as she recalled his recent flurry of activities. She
knew he’d been busy with his company and prepping for a shoot, but she had
no clue what project he was actually working on. She’d asked before, but Seth
had been evasive.
“Alright then.” That world was foreign to her, and she had little interest in it.
Seth caught her hand and bent down to kiss her. “Breakfast is warming on the
table. Make sure you eat.”
“Did you make it?”
He stuffed her hand back under the covers and stood up, “Do you really think
there’s a third person in this house?”
“Call me if you need anything. And don’t go wandering off.”
“Mmm-hmm,” Cicely nodded obediently.
Satisfied, Seth finally turned and left.
*
Cicely planned on catching some extra sleep, but the restlessness won. She got
out of bed and found a clean set of pajamas laid out for her. She slipped them
on, careful of the piercing pain from last night’s ordeal. She tiptoed gingerly to
the dining room, where a plate of sandwiches, milk, hard-boiled eggs, and a
vegetable salad waited under the warming lights.
Leaning on the table, she took a sip of milk and nibbled on an egg. A smile
spread across her lips as she pictured Seth, alone in the kitchen, methodically
preparing breakfast – even meticulously peeling eggs for her.
The man who used to be so cold and distant, who seemed impossible to warm
up was now unexpectedly affectionate and thoughtful. She had said she didn’t
expect Seth to love her, but maybe now she could star t to hope a little?
*
After breakfast, she settled on the living room couch and flipped on the TV to
watch a movie. Around eleven, her phone chimed with a message.
*
By noon, Charlie stood outside the door, carrying bags from a prestigious
restaurant. When no one answered, he called Seth directly. “Mr. Diaz, Ms.
Cicely seems to be out.”
Seth was at his desk, poring over documents with a stern focus. Hearing
Charlie’s words, a frown flickered across his brow. He dialed Cicely’s cell from
the landline, but it went straight to voicemail. He tried the apartment line too,
with no answer. “Use the code to check inside,” he instructed.
“Alright.”
Charlie entered the code Seth had given him and stepped inside. After a
thorough search, he confirmed, “Mr. Diaz, Ms. Cicely isn’t in the apartment.”
“Find out where she went.”
Seth hung up and grabbed his coat and keys, leaving the company in a swift
motion.
Charlie sent Seth the location he’d uncovered within ten minutes and hurried
over himself. The address was a high-class restaurant, a setting that seemed to
match Ms. Cicely’s dining style. Yet, the idea of her dining alone in such an
atmospheric venue seemed unlikely. It was either that, or perhaps Ms. Cicely,
unpredictable and independent, simply enjoyed the cuisine and chose to savor it
solo – not impossible.
Charlie considered these possibilities, but when he arrived at the restaurant and
caught sight of Ms. Cicely, he rubbed his eyes in disbelief.
Following shortly after, Seth’s typically stoic expression also betrayed a hint of
surprise.
“Mr. Diaz,” Charlie whispered, approaching discreetly, “I didn’t disturb Ms.
Cicely, but I’ve spoken with the owner. As you can see, she’s the pianist here.
For the past month, she’s come in every afternoon. Ms. Cicely has been working
here. She took an advance on her pay yesterday, and she’s still obligated to
work for another month.”
It was astonishing – a daughter of the affluent Ellis family, who lacked for
nothing, especially not money, working a job like this. If word got out, people
would think Charlie had lost his mind.
Seth watched the woman behind the piano, playing with practiced grace. Even
with half her face masked, he recognized her instantly. No other woman
possessed even a fraction of her innate elegance and pride.
Ballade pour Adeline… A beautiful love story that, according to legend, moved
the god of love.
watch, the hands
followed Seth around, busy with various tasks, naturally aware
Cicely, who lacked nothing, would be working
be for Mr. Diaz’s birthday, she probably wanted
clue what the
that a woman who always
working just to
Mr. Diaz wasn’t just superficial,
in a corner behind Cicely, out of her
turning towards
anyone asked if she’s
Enter title…
manager paused, recalling Seth’s intense focus
with a smile, “Not yet. Today’s been
she arrived. She won’t have
Seth frowned slightly.
ordered her meal for after two. All signature dishes
picks is pricey and she’s
fathom why she’d need to work for cash.
doesn’t seem
she was
not know if Ms.
had a thing for Mr.
knew better. Someone as pampered as
for something she loved. Yet there
choosing to sit there.
her love for him become more important than her love
silhouette,
Act like
didn’t get it, but the
so he
*
had left and Cicely
young servers came in,
just finished lunch.
her grace undeniable. Initially, her aloof demeanor
bay. But after an incident
make a fuss, they realized
chatting more openly with
her emerge, they greeted her cheerfully and
conversation.
the jackpot this time, landed a part in a huge
says it’s going to be a hit. Even a small role is a huge step
Oh, hey, did you
us to
shook her head, “Haven’t checked
invite me.”
shifts so
she is. Don’t worry, she’ll
in the mirror, “She said she’s
“More than
“Hm.”
tore off a paper towel, and
off her back to swap
in the locker room, she pulled out her
a
first. [Hey, I landed
lot to the help I’ve
you. I know you’re busy,
tonight. Here’s the address…]
actually
text back.
for a while before he
voice light. “You called?”
came
locker and headed out with her
going to bring you lunch, but you
told me you’d arrange lunch, I wouldn’t
you
I was
what did
a server was setting
with foie gras, shrimp with cheese gratin,
sauce.”
good. How
“Not bad.”
pause on the
“Does it still hurt?”
“Hm?”
on at first, but when Seth repeated the question, she got it.
would’ve forgotten. Now it hurts again.” Her
playful.
home tonight. Finish up and
her chair, “Okay, what time will
“Around six-thirty.”
“Alright.”
with a noticeably good mood, her meal
eating, she
*
Seth prepared to
for dinner. His brow furrowed, but he
Charlie to deliver Cicely’s
disappointment learning Seth wouldn’t be back,
didn’t dwell on it.
you had dinner?” she asked
“No, not yet.”
meal’s on me. Since he’s not coming back, I’ve
seemed to hesitate, the events from lunchtime still hanging
a misunderstanding nearly taking root.
but couldn’t find the
if reading his mind, replied with a gentle
you? Don’t worry, it’s a female
on. After all, she
sigh of relief, then quickly offered, “If it’s any trouble
you a
for a moment before nodding, “That would
really liked her forthright
At the Diaz household.
living room where Danielle and
conversation.
faded as she saw him, “Why
birthday?”
chill of the outdoors, handed his coat to the
indifferent and responses brief. “Had a few
with Cicely
didn’t reply,
You promised
Seth’s eyes as he looked
Danielle.
stiffened, her hands clenched
did you want
pressed on, “So, your relationship with
you, is
you just realizing that she and I never
up?”
going to
remained silent. This was his typical response
the truth was something Patty couldn’t accept.
best recourse.
barely concealed irritation and
know you’re sensible, and I trust you won’t
last night with a request, but you didn’t give
you here tonight.
there’s a blockbuster series in the works?
and has her eye on
you can pull some
Danielle, “You’re looking for an easy way
through me?”
bit her lip, “I feel
the news, you’d know that the cast is
was involved in every step of the casting
actors do you think is unfit?
the role, why didn’t you audition in the
Seth’s intensity, Danielle’s voice trembled,
by the time I found out,
the role isn’t for you,” Seth
the film
not even with
tone, “I may not understand all the ins and outs,
wants is a minor one, and
a favor to me, let
the tension
softened her
I’ll lay off the topic of you and Cicely for
trust you’ll handle things
me.”
point, a reminder to Seth
was only on
had declined the offer to dine at the Diaz’s
was still out. Charlie briefed
wasn’t until 9:30 that
first time Cicely had accepted an invitation to this kind
gathering.
a change from her usual reluctance to
at the diner, saving every
just a
was fixed, any slack on
make ends meet for the month. Inviting everyone out
Enter title…
tough decision for her, biting
any means, just
clean environment,
the cost of such a place was nothing to write home
but the drinks were
glances at her wallet while topping
a look of subtle unease and
alive with fun, but Cicely put down her glass and stood
her and called out,
However, she walked straight to
card to the bartender. “Charge the room
eat
second glance at the
of him.
“Sure thing.”
soft call came from behind her; it
her
moment Cicely was about to pick up the tab.
money, and you’ve helped me too many times
I just wanted to properly thank you
tone was indifferent, “Let’s not talk about it.
it is my pleasure. It makes
was slightly taken aback. She couldn’t
was merely a way for Cicely to help her save
every day to earn money
“To be honest, I’m not short of money,
my
of realization, “You’re saving
special, aren’t you?”
paused, “How
“Because a lot of people think that
you earned feels more meaningful to
the one you love.”
of
asked again and saw Emiliana nod, her expression
of frustration. So, many
like someone, that’s when you’d come up with that
would treasure it for
brow and eyes relaxed. “This might be
like this,
told him not
in thought as she watched
hidden
Usually so cool and detached,
much
the restroom together,
remarked casually, “Wearing a ring
quite possessive, locking you down so
ring on her finger and smiled, “Isn’t wearing
when you’re married normal?”
guard for a moment, “Married? You’re
married?”
hands and made
but being
too well the
the restroom, Cicely checked her phone just as
in full swing, and Cicely stepped aside to
not coming back
huh? I’ll head back
address. I’ll
“Okay.”
early, and Seth’s car was waiting right outside the
cast another
I was
meant, “It’s a decent spot for
cash.”
traffic, he mused,
over the years, but I’ve
alright, quite easy on the
“Just being easy on the eyes
discomfort and go to that kind of place. If you really liked
I wonder how
the only person in the
that question.”
neither
seemed to ponder the question herself, then said after
quite sure how far I’d go for
happens.”
do you think
knows. I’d prefer to live a peaceful life as Mrs.
smiled slightly, “Is
glanced at his hand on the steering wheel, the watch on his
of light, changing with the streetlights
its colors flickering in
reasons for changes, besides subjective
influenced by objective factors.
even the most ordinary of desires, while hopeful, may
luxury.
“It is.”
had nothing more to
lips gradually faded. “If that’s
think being married
constantly
about all that,” Cicely said with a bright
slightly somber atmosphere inside the car. “I like you,
live together with you and do a bunch of
I picture with you
stuff creep into the fantasy. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have chosen
as Seth and Cicely made their way
before realizing they had
shower. I’ll whip up some pasta for you,”
entered their cozy apartment.
you know I haven’t eaten
food poisoning episode not
a knowing look.
she had learned
Enter title…
the hospital with a terrible
soon forget. Pain was something
least favorite places. So, needless to say,
out and
Cicely made her way to
find Seth reigniting the stove. In two
poured a hearty sauce over
boiled egg before handing
palate, refined over the years, was hard
But tonight, she relished every bite,
a peak of perfection or if it was simply because Seth had made
for her.
while, Seth stepped out onto the living room
a call on his phone. “Send me the blueprints,
We need to stay on schedule
call and came back, Cicely had put
Noting the half-eaten plate of pasta, he asked indifferently,
already?”
nodded, “Yeah, I
her, pulled the plate toward himself,
her utensils.
her hands, Cicely asked, “Didn’t
was his simple
him in silence, not mentioning anything about the Diaz
an unspoken agreement between them. If Seth didn’t bring
about their secret marriage or anything else. Only
themselves, and Emiliana, whom Cicely had met that
and wife. Their hidden marriage
between them.
inexplicable trust in Emiliana, or maybe
been called back home by Patty once agai,
never
blessings
anyone but her. The exact reasons were unclear, but
intuition was strong.
didn’t know that they had got the marriage license. As for
it on his ring finger. Whenever
he was always alone. Did she have any
Yes, she did.
she couldn’t appear in front of Patty. Since Seth chose to
reasons. If Patty was another kind of
hid herself and avoided
to be with him peacefully, to stay in their own little
of them, without any third person interfering. Things were
didn’t want to disrupt
that she had never analyzed a situation
he gazed
you should’ve
head, “I’d rather spend every second I
shower.”
slight smile crept onto Seth’s lips. “Is that
“Yeah.”
“Good to know.”
that, he meant that after cleaning up the dishes, he
the bathroom and then to the bed, her cheeks
Seth applied ointment to her injuries, Cicely’s initial
let him tend to her. She was content with his devotion and gentle
in the thick of their
loved her. But she
the thought, having played out the
She couldn’t imagine Seth
words to her.
*
of them had the scent of the same
but she preferred the
I just stay here all the time?”
place is not convenient. You will be better taken care of at the Ellis family.
think your father would want you to stay here. You still
can spend more time
explanation with a grain of salt.
can stay here for a bit. And in
future, you’re welcome anytime.”
“Okay.”
at her, his fingers gently playing with her hair. “Not
deep breath and snuggled closer to him. “If
let me
moment before
What show did that girl you took a liking to
smiled subtly before settling back into a neutral
in a period drama with a complicated name I
it all over the internet. Right,
a shot. She must have
role amidst such
her audition for the next project. There might be
current project’s
wasn’t suggesting you have to cast
into a smile as he
else’s interests on
“Consider this me
you up with
owe you
her chin upward
always thought that Seth’s “a while” meant just a few days,
passed since her arrival, and there was no talk of going
acting role, hadn’t
with her shifts
rush, she’d play a
Cicely. Cicely would treat her to lunch in
the restaurant at midday, Cicely noticed the
Knowing Cicely had been getting along
hushed voices: “Cicely, Emiliana’s
Looks like she might be getting
Enter title…
confused.
waiters shook their heads. “Not sure,
walked in. She missed a few notes while playing,
is pretty particular, and a mistake here
but repeated complaints? The manager was
the same get-together a few
look. “I heard that
snatched by someone else.”
brows knitted together. It was clear
all her hopes
roles already cast? Did some bigwig
glances, a mix of anger
what’s abnormal has become the norm. Now, anyone can act, and
women have sugar
Emiliana, even a minor role in the background isn’t safe. With all
those people have, why not fight
darkened. “What’s the
her character?”
remember? We talked about it at the party
drama. Emiliana’s character is named Sue, a clever maid
lead’s strategist. Though a servant, her
hands of the villain. It’s
hearts and
Era of Elegance? Sue?
thoughtfully, then headed towards the
found Emiliana sitting on the floor, leaning
locker, lost
enter, Emiliana quickly stood up.
straight up to her, stopping only inches away. She lifted
examining her face
guard by her
“Have you been crying?”
pursed her lips tightly, barely holding
tears.
still marketable. How about
expression froze in surprise.
tossed her bag onto a nearby
can get
was even
to be
me your ‘fairy godmother’?”
stunned. “Ci… Cicely? What are
loaded. If this role truly hinges on financial
sponsor you.”
paused, her eyes widening in astonishment. “You…
possible!”
You think I
head. “Even if you could, it’s not right. I can’t repay
live within my means and I don’t want
in debt feels terrible, especially
return. In this business, financial intervention is
waiting to be pushed out.
of a role you worked so
to pity you. Roles aren’t irreplaceable – if
But miss this chance,
a
another Seth. She wanted to secure her
she took was aimed at that turning point. People
have ambitions, just like her now, getting what
I love acting, but I’m starting
this industry.”
broke with emotion, tears streaming down
aiming for the awards next year. How
such interference? Cicely, you get what I’m saying? The investors
unless it’s the investors themselves who
your own money, it’s not right, and
worth it.”
Emiliana wasn’t just anyone; it
investors behind the show.
you know who the
“Not a clue. The promos only mention
of before. Must
firm.”
thoughtfully. “A new
Emiliana nodded. “Yeah.”
*
two had agreed to have
days, Seth had been cooking dinner. The dishes
enough for both their
got home early and headed straight for the
fridge, scrutinized the contents, and, after a bit of
gathered an assortment
then pulled out her phone, scrolled through a few
everything was ready,
her arms, and stood watching over it,
an eternity, she sidled
finally reached
leapt up, she took
herself, she moved closer and sprinkled
much regard for the proper order, she dumped in all the
followed by the vegetables.
all going to be stir-fried together; when they went
– or
food
consider it a
Seth opened the door, a smoky
him in the apartment. He
shoes, and walked in to find
dining table, with a soup so clear that only
visible.
eyebrow, he looked towards the kitchen, only to hear a
behind, “You’re back?”
from a shower,
standing at the dining
in the apartment he could
of these days, he was
flames along with her
am, slaving away to make you dinner, and you’re complaining
you even taste it?”
at her, “You think
hair in the
against the table,
sat down and noticed the rice was
Rice was easy. Just follow the smart cooker’s instructions,
internet says,
pick up his fork, she couldn’t help
the table.
a bite and his expression froze momentarily. He
Cicely watched, amused,
meal, Seth looked up,
the dishes on
“They don’t look appetizing, so
at her. “And you let me eat
quirked an eyebrow, picking up her fork. “If
keep you company.”
paused mid-air, hovering over Cicely’s. “Is
brow and glanced at her
would that
followed to the red marks on her wrist,
small, prominent spots. “Why the
your
a crime to want to
first-aid kit, and sat next to
while ago.”
gently held her dodging hand
first-aid
Enter title…
why that is?
the standard emergency supplies, most
minor injuries.d2
a smile, “Who knows? Maybe I
a kid, and now life’s paying me back with
you could just stay out of trouble, none of this would
trouble?” Cicely chuckled lightly, “What exactly would that
to you?”
uptake, sensed something
her eyes,
been way too tame compared to my old self, and
you don’t even notice. I’ve held
any other woman would probably not be as patient. But what
when I’m head over heels
brow as he
kit. “So tell me, who’s got you upset
glanced at the treated wounds and spoke indifferently, “No one
quite capable enough.”
“That leaves me.”
the bush, Cicely cut straight to the
of the show
Seth’s brow furrowed.
some digging online, and there are a few shows
one that’s
town—Era of
never shown any interest in this stuff before. Why bring
got curious. It’s normal to be interested in
upfront with Seth, never hiding her
him.
mine.” Seth
as the sole investor, C&P Entertainment is
“Yes.”
smiled, confirming
your company sign
“Not yet.”
a mistress on the
there’s something on your mind, just
the bush
“Just a few words and you’re
mind, it’s because I’m trying to
don’t want to make things awkward
figure out why I’m being like this,
me an explanation, not to mention
can’t wait too long, a
piece, she stood up, eyed the dishes on the table, then
unpalatable,
scratch, and I’d hate for you to get
pasta or something.”
reached for the second dish, her wrist was grasped. Seth’s
as ice, “Put it down.” His gaze met hers, frosty, “Did
the plate, which clattered back
yourself.”
splattered across the
eating. “If you’re not hungry now,
done. I’ll make you some
won’t be hungry tonight.” Cicely rubbed her wrist
room.
leave, Seth silently finished his meal and headed to the kitchen
clean up the mess.
like a battlefield.
food, the floor smeared with footprints, oil, water, and scattered herbs.
the sink and began to prep for pasta, taking a moment
call Charlie.
Cicely’s been today,
to go
right to give you
“Fine.”
scrolling through her phone, trying to distract
sour mood.
door opened, and the tall figure
“Come eat.”
you, I’m not
covers as if he hadn’t
a chill, Cicely set aside her phone, “So my words mean
to make a point, you think
up to me to decide.
eat right now. Forcing me will only make it
hungry, I’ll find something
irritate Seth further,
it warm, I’ll come eat
her for a moment, then left the bedroom silently.
mood spoiled by Seth’s dismissive
returned, clutching a
bathroom. Pausing before her, he towered over
take a shower. I expect you to, you know,
your meal once I’m
didn’t respond, but as soon as Seth disappeared into the bathroom,
from
and the dining
plate of
from him just now sounded like
now, she chose
spaghetti didn’t seem like it had been sitting out for half an hour; it
made. So his “expect” probably meant he’d tossed
hinting
picked up a fork,
had Seth’s touch all over
just easy to appease or if his way of winning
that good. Either way,
dissipated.
plate of spaghetti. Seth knew her
a
Read The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride Chapter 2001-2010
Read The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride novel Chapter 2001-2010
The Read The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride by Novelxo.com has been updated to chapter Chapter 2001-2010 .
In Chapter 2001-2010 of the The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride series, The passage describes a conflict between Chloe and Keira. Keira has hurt Chloe, and Lance Olson is caught in the middle. An old lady named Hannah observes the situation, and she wants to meet Chloe due to her good nature. However, there is a potential issue with her grandson's arrival......... Will this Chapter 2001-2010 author Novelxo.com mention any details. Follow Chapter 2001-2010 and the latest season of this series at Novelxo.com.
The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride Chapter 2001-2010
The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride novel Chapter 2001-2010