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

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