The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

Charlie paused, then nodded. “Mr. Diaz, there’s a transatlantic meeting

tomorrow afternoon with the Ellis family. It’s regarding a joint venture for a luxury

hotel and a commercial boulevard with D country.”

“Got it.”

Seth was always busy. While his peers were out dating, living their best lives, he

not only took over the Diaz Corporation but took charge of all the Ellis family’s

key development projects and even established his very own company.

Everyone underestimated the ‘kid’, but he ended up eating their lunch.

That was probably Seth’s smartest move. No one expected someone so young

to play such a sophisticated game. Over the past six months, those who knew

Enter title…

him were both surprised and wary of his tactics.

Despite his high-profile actions, he remained quite low-key personally.d2

People’s attitudes toward him had shifted from mocking ‘live-in son-in-law’ and

‘kid’ to a wary respect, no longer daring to speak ill of him behind his back.

However, there were other whispers within the company.

The term ‘live-in son-in-law’ might have been dropped, but rumors that he

wanted full control over the Ellis family were rampant. Some said he had no

affection for the Ellis family’s darling daughter, even bordering on dislike, and

that all his tolerance was solely for the sake of the Ellis family. Perhaps from the

start, the Ellis family’s heiress falling for him was part of his long game.

Who didn’t know what winning the Ellis family’s heiress meant? No fool would

pass up the chance to join the Ellis family.

Initially, shareholders scoffed at Seth, mocking the idea of a man trying to climb

the ranks through a woman as delusional, but in just a few years, he had

penetrated the upper echelons, wielding absolute power. If Seth ever left the

Ellis family, it was unthinkable what would become of them.

If he ever chose to go against the Ellis family, they wouldn’t stand a chance.

*

Cicely’s spirits didn’t seem to have dampened after the day’s earlier events.

Emiliana was worried at first, but it turned out Cicely genuinely didn’t mind.

During dinner with Seth that evening, Cicely casually mentioned the noon

incident.

“She’s been let go,” Seth said.

Cicely’s expression didn’t falter. “It seems that being a few years older does not

necessarily make you wiser.”

She paused, a sly smile forming, “But then again, some are decades older and

still willingly exploited.”

Seth’s eyes narrowed slightly, but Cicely spoke as if she was discussing

something trivial, elegantly chewing her food.

“What kind of wedding do you want?” Seth changed the subject, catching Cicely

off guard.

“What?”

Seth smirked, “Although I can arrange it, I can’t be sure of the specific style or

details you’d like. After all, it’s an important event, and it’s simpler to ask you

directly than to waste efforts on something you might not even like.”

Cicely slowly put down her fork, “Does this mean that we’re planning a

wedding?”

“How about the day after your birthday next year?”

Cicely looked dazed. “I think holding it on my birthday would be more

meaningful.”

Seth took a sip of water, his demeanor calm and refined, “Are you sure? From

then on, you’d celebrate two anniversaries on the same day each year. That

would certainly save me some time…”

Before Seth could finish, Cicely caught on. “I’ve decided. The day after my

birthday it is.”

Seth smiled, “So, think about what kind of wedding you want and let me know.”

Cicely’s eyes sparkled like a sea of stars. “I’ll have to think about it.”

She couldn’t hide her excitement, “I’ve got plenty of time these days.”

Seth couldn’t empathize. They were already married on paper, living as husband

and wife. This wedding was just a formality. What difference would it really

make?

But he knew women dreamed of a fairy-tale wedding. Cicely deserved one,

being the Ellis family heiress and the princess of P City. Her wedding was bound

to be unprecedented.

*

The next day, Cicely eagerly approached P City’s top wedding planning agency.

She spent the whole morning there.

The agency was always on the lookout for P City’s elite, keeping tabs on which

scions were of age and which heiresses were in love. After all, it was all about

business.

Cicely’s visit had them overjoyed; she was probably the most anticipated client

in P City. Even after she left, the agency staff were still in awe. True to her Ellis

family status, her demands were top-notch.

“Look at her, born with a silver spoon, look at that poise, that skin, that figure –

all courtesy of wealth,” one staffer said.

“So it’s her and Seth’s wedding? I knew it, but it still feels surreal.”

“Yeah, they say Mr. Diaz is in it for the Ellis fortune. Otherwise, how could he put

up with Ms. Cicely’s temperament?”

“That’s none of our business. I’m more excited to see how lavish Ms. Cicely’s

wedding will be.”

“Can’t imagine it. We’ll just have to see it with our own eyes.”

The young women’s conversation came full circle back to the grandeur of the

upcoming wedding, each of them filled with longing. Every woman dreams of

her perfect wedding day.

Cicely had skipped lunch, her mind preoccupied with wedding dresses, as she

dragged Issac to the bridal boutique.

They’d visited three stores, and after Issac had gently nudged her several times,

an increasingly irritable Cicely finally decided it was time to grab a bite.

Issac, unfazed by her sour mood, cheerily suggested as he drove, “We’re

actually quite close to Lucky Spoon, Miss. You always rave about their soup.”

“Lucky Spoon?” Cicely paused before conceding, “Alright, let’s get takeout from

there. I’ll have lunch with him at the office.”

Issac fell silent for a few seconds before pointing out, “It’s past two, Mr. Diaz has

likely already had his lunch.”

“Then we’ll make it an afternoon tea. He seems to like Lucky Spoon’s soup too.”

“Understood.”

*

By three o’clock, Seth was still in a meeting, and Cicely’s call came through to

Charlie’s phone.

“Where’s Seth?”

Charlie stepped outside the meeting room, speaking softly, “Mr. Diaz is in a

meeting at the Ellis Group. Is there something urgent? I can pass on a

message.”

“At the Ellis Group? Nothing major, just packed some food and wanted him to

join me. You don’t need to pass the message; I’ll be there shortly.”

“Okay.”

The call ended, and not ten minutes later, Charlie was again holding Seth’s

buzzing phone. “Madam, Mr. Diaz is still in the meeting. Can I assist with

anything on his behalf?”

Patty’s voice, cool and detached, filled the line, “Where is he having the

meeting?”

“The Ellis Group.”

“Hm.”

Patty acknowledged and abruptly disconnected. Charlie was left in a state of

confusion.

Half an hour later, as the meeting wrapped up and Seth emerged, Charlie

relayed Cicely’s message.

Seth’s expression didn’t change. “Buy a sugar-free cake on the way back.”

Charlie nodded, understanding the subtext, and added, “Madam also called, but

she didn’t say anythi—”

Before he could finish, the woman he spoke of appeared at the front office door.Charlie stopped mid-sentence and glanced at Seth.

Seth, lips pressed tightly together, made his way over.

Patty stepped aside with a frosty look as he opened the office door and followed

him in.

Charlie faintly heard Patty ask Seth, “Do you know why I came today?”

That question… He scratched his temple and shifted to the side.

Just then, the elevator dinged at their floor, making Charlie’s heart skip a beat.

He knew this was trouble. Before he could think of what to do, he saw Cicely

stepping out with two bags in her hands.d2

Enter title…

He hurried forward, reaching to take the bags from her. “Ms. Cicely, you might

need to wait a bit longer. Mr. Diaz is still in a meeting.”

Cicely gave him an extra look, “Charlie, you feeling okay today?”

With a sheepish grin and a thin sheen of sweat on his forehead, Charlie replied,

“Yeah, I’m fine.”

Cicely rarely invested her thoughts in others and didn’t take much notice of

Charlie’s odd behavior today. She headed straight for Seth’s office. “It’s fine. I

can wait for him in his office, I’m not in a hurry.”

Charlie tried several times to stand in her way, not keen on her nearing the

office, but each attempt faltered before action. Such an obvious refusal would

make the problem too apparent.

“Ms. Cicely…”

“Seth!”

Cicely’s silhouette paused at the office door.

The former was Charlie’s final, helpless plea. The latter, a sharp rebuke, came

from Patty inside the office.

Charlie closed his eyes, especially embarrassed when Cicely silently glanced

his way.

“What are you trying to do? Warning Danielle to not talk too much in front of

me? If you don’t want to worry me, then why don’t you just agree to her? She’s

not without merit. Numerous talent agencies are vying for her. Now she wants to

sign with you, and you treat her like this? Rejected her several times? She can’t

even get an appointment with you? Is that reasonable?!”

“This is my company’s business. I can judge whether she’s qualified.”

“What kind of judgment do you have? Don’t think I don’t know what you’re up to.

Is it because of Cicely again? How much more are you going to cater to her?”

“If you know I’m trying to please her, then stop bringing up Danielle’s issues and

causing me trouble.”

Cicely frowned from outside the door.

Pleasing? Talking about pleasing her in front of Patty? She narrowed her eyes

and tilted her head, subconsciously wanting to hear more.

“So, how much does Danielle have to suffer? If wasn’t Danielle’s identity, signing

her would be the obvious choice, right? You said Cicely is nice and

understanding. If you explain it to her, she shouldn’t object.”

“If everyone is so keen on Danielle, she’ll get better treatment elsewhere than

from signing with me. Are you sure you want me to bring up Danielle’s case in

front of Cicely, who has harbored resentment for her?”

Patty took a deep breath, “But Danielle joining your company is just a matter of

time.”

“Definitely not now.”

Seth’s tone finally broke through his restraint, showing a hint of impatience.

Cicely’s hands at her sides clenched tightly, her gaze shadowed by a faint

gloom.

Silence fell in the office for a moment, and Patty’s next words were less heated.

“What about Danielle then? Seth, I’m warning you, Danielle is set on acting now.

When you weren’t the same circle, it’s all good, but now that you’re in the same

industry, you must look after her. Don’t use Cicely as a shield. If you really care,

you’ll manage it.”

Still hopeful, she added, “If you directly sign Danielle and look after her, that’s

only right. Even if Cicely finds out, she can’t complain.”

“If she truly encounters a problem, I’ll consider helping. But for now, when I say I

won’t sign her, I mean it.”

“Fine. I’ll talk to Danielle, but remember, by next year, after you’ve married her

and, as you said, secured the Ellis family’s influence and shares, you better sort

this out. I must be crazy to actually agree to let you marry her.”

Cicely’s heart skipped a beat, and suddenly her legs felt weak. She stepped

back, feeling lightheaded.

Charlie, who was too far from the office to hear the exchange, approached

Cicely with concern, “Ms. Cicely, are you alright?”

Cicely’s hands trembled slightly as she looked up at Charlie, her beautiful face

expressionless, her voice as calm as water. “I need to use the restroom.”

Not two minutes after she left, Patty emerged from the office.

Charlie entered next. He placed the two paper bags on the coffee table. Seth

was sitting in his chair, his face a mask of brooding darkness. “Mr. Diaz, Ms.

Cicely brought these from the Lucky Spoon.”

Seth’s gaze lifted slowly, the storm in his eyes yet to dissipate, his voice low and

strained, “Where is she?”

Startled by Seth’s demeanor, Charlie replied hesitantly, “She’s in the restroom.”

Seth’s attention finally shifted to the paper bags on the coffee table. “Did you get

the cake?”

“I just sent someone to pick it up; it should be back soon.”

“Alright.” Seth pinched the bridge of his nose and stood from his chair, moving

towards the door.

Charlie quickly stepped out, “I’ll check if the cake has arrived.”

Shortly after Charlie left, Cicely returned. Seth was now seated on the couch,

having laid out the soup and a few side dishes, the coffee table half-covered.

Seth caught Cicely’s entrance from the corner of his eye, his features indifferent

as he glanced her way. “Don’t tell me you skipped lunch.”

Cicely locked eyes with him for a couple of seconds, offering a half-hearted

smile before approaching. “I did, actually.”

Seth furrowed his brows. “What on earth were you doing that you missed

lunch?”

“I dropped by the wedding planner’s office, then window-shopped at a couple of

bridal boutiques.”

She settled beside Seth, her gaze fixed on his face as she approached,

searching for any hint of a reaction. But whether she was too naive or Seth was

too good at hiding his feelings, Cicely couldn’t read anything out of the ordinary.

His smile was measured, and when he spoke, smile tinged his voice. “Spot any

dresses that caught your eye?”

“Well, I only hit three shops. Saw some pretty ones, but I think there might be

something better out there.”

“Did you try any on?”

“Isn’t trying on dresses something you’re supposed to do with me?”

Seth cradled a bowl of porridge, spooning a taste and offering it to Cicely’s lips,

which she accepted with an open mouth.

“Yeah, maybe this weekend I’ll have some time.” He spoke only after seeing her

obediently swallow.

Cicely picked up a fork, spearing a bite of side salad and popping it into her

mouth with a satisfied squint. “Sounds good.”

Seth fed her another spoonful. “Eat up, okay?”

Taking the spoon from him, Cicely responded, “You should look at tuxedos too.”

Seth just chuckled noncommittally, reaching for another bowl of soup.

As they neared the end of the meal, there was a knock at the office door. Setting

down his bowl, Seth called out, and Charlie came in bearing a cake.

“Ms. Cicely, this is a sugar-free cake Mr. Diaz specifically asked me to pick up

for you.”

“Thank you.”

Cicely turned towards Seth with a beaming smile. “So nice. What do you want

as a reward?”

“Any reward I want?”

She nodded. “Of course.”

Seth raised an eyebrow, looked at her and said, “How about you throw some of

your shares my way?”

“Sure.” Cicely pulled the cake closer without a hint of hesitation.

Seth gave her a longer look, his smile fading a touch. “A cake for a company?”

“What’s mine is yours, isn’t it? In the end, I’m up one cake, right?”

Seth fell silent, leaning back on the couch, watching as she casually forked cake

into her mouth. “Do you even know what owning even one percent of the Ellis

Group’s shares means?”

Cicely tilted her head in thought. “Lots and lots of money?”

Seth pursed his lips. “Not wrong. One percent of a huge sum could equal the

profits of a five-star hotel for at least a decade, not counting future appreciation.”

“Well, that’s the Ellis Group.”

Her expression wasn’t particularly surprised; she’d known the Ellis family was

wealthy since she was a child.

“But that’s my dad’s, and it will be yours in the future. If you’re counting on me, a

hundred five-star hotels wouldn’t be enough for my adventures.”

After saying this, Cicely looked at Seth with a smile. “So, I guess you’ll be taking

care of things, hubby?”

Seth’s eyes narrowed slightly. “What did you call me?”

“Hubby? Isn’t that right?” Cicely’s face was the picture of innocence.

Seth eyed the cake in her hand. “Is the cake good?”

“Delicious.”

“You’ve had quite a bit. Aren’t you tired of it?”

“I’ll stop after this piece. If you didn’t want me to have so much, why buy a whole

cake?”

“I wanted to make sure you had enough, not that you’d eat it all. The room’s got

toiletries if you need them.” He gestured towards the hidden lounge.

Cicely popped the last bite of cake into her mouth, then sighed contentedly,

patting her belly gently. “Looks like I might have to hit the gym later.”

Seth’s gaze flickered over her flat stomach, his lips tightening.

As Cicely opened the lounge door and stepped inside, a warm pressure

suddenly pressed against her from behind. She was nudged into the room,

instinctively turning her head in confusion. A force encircled her waist, and

before she could react, she found herself pinned against the wall. It was Seth. She could smell his scent and see his silhouette. Trapped between

the wall and his chest, she questioned, “What are you doing?”

Seth bent over, his handsome face just inches away. The slender dark pupils

seemed to be filled with the lingering scent of aged wine, and even the warm

breath sprayed on her face appeared to carry a hint of alcohol. His lowered,

seductive voice was too easy to bewitch the heart. “I’m here for my reward, of

course.”

Cicely blinked, “You’re not expecting me to sign the transfer deed right now, are

you?”

Enter title…

A firm squeeze on her waist answered her as Seth pressed his lips to hers in the

midst of her protest.

Cicely gasped, her hands instinctively rising, poised to push him away, but

instead, they found their way to his shoulders.

As the kiss deepened and showed no sign of stopping, Cicely began to struggle.

When there was a brief pause, she managed to say, “Don’t tell me your reward

involves even more.”d2

Seth’s lips brushed her cheek as he maneuvered her towards the bed, pinning

her beneath him with a bent knee. His free hand reached up, deftly undoing the

buttons of her blouse.

“Considering the company shares could be given away as a reward, doing a bit

more is well within my rights.” he mused.

Even after their many moments of bare honesty, Cicely still found herself easily

allured by any move this man made. As her blouse fell open, revealing her

porcelain skin, she bit her lip, falling silent.

Seth smirked, his fingers weaving through her hair, cradling her neck, drawing

her close, and then effortlessly captured her lips once more. She was swept into

the whirlpool he stirred, losing all coherent thought.

Forget Patty, forget Danielle, forget company shares, forget love or not. She

didn’t need to think about anything. Right now, she could simply indulge in what

she had.

It wasn’t too late. She retracted her earlier yearning for something called “love.”

Let it be as it started; he coveted what she had, and that was enough. She just

needed this man to belong to her entirely.

The curtains were drawn at some point, and as the evening sun blazed, the

room was enveloped in dimness.

Curled in the blankets, Cicely’s hair was strewn messily over the pillow and

bedding. Her eyes were half-closed, her long lashes fluttering occasionally.

Her arm lay casually across the mattress, her breathing slow and even. The

flush on her delicate face deepened as she saw her slightly curled fingers move

in the dim light, the ring on her finger catching a glint.

The finger moved again, and a warm presence pressed against her back,

interlocking fingers, and a warm kiss was planted behind her ear.

She stared at the hand that was holding her, while a patch of chill lightly hit her

skin from behind. She wasn’t sure whether to feel ironic or grateful. The ring was

on him, but he refused to put it on his finger.

Turning to face Seth, her gaze met his desire-laden handsome features. With

easier access, Seth buried his face into her neck.

“Seth, do you believe I love you?”

The one who falls first is destined to lose, and she never hid it. Perhaps it was

youthful ignorance or simply an innate honesty.

Could love ever be hidden?

Even now, she’d likely make the same choice. In the Ellis family, she was never

taught, nor did she learn, to be deceitful. Illusions always crumble, like overedited selfies that can’t withstand the light of day.

Why pretend not to love? Why fear the truth being uncovered?

She never considered these questions, so she never thought about hiding.

The kiss at her neck seemed to cool slightly. “Mmm.” He knew, how could he

not? Everyone knew Cicely loved Seth. He was too clever.

With a lazy smile, she asked, “Do you love me?”

He didn’t answer directly. Men have a million ways to dodge or gloss over a

question when they wish to. “Have I ever done anything to make you feel

unloved?”

What a shrewd response. Was this a mere evasion, or did it imply that his love

for her was genuine?

“No, you’re wonderful. I guess every woman wants to hear those words.”

Seth chuckled softly, “Actions speak louder than words. Especially for men, that

phrase is quite cheap.”

So cheap that even saying it felt beneath them. Insincere to the point of

disbelief.

As expected, she didn’t get the answer she probably wanted. Cicely closed her

eyes and snuggled deeper into the pillow. “Let’s not. I’m tired.”

“Mmm, rest here. No need for the gym.”

Her brows twitched, eliciting a low laugh from Seth. Even the most seemingly

reserved men become wicked in these matters, it seemed.

Remembering their intimate moments and the raw words spoken in his deep,

husky voice, her cheeks flushed with heat.

Underneath his reserved exterior was a fierce passion, overwhelming in its

contrast.

After the day’s exertions, the gym was indeed unnecessary.

Seth adjusted the room temperature and tucked the blankets around her. Then

there was movement from the bathroom, sounds of ease as if at home.

How long had it been since Seth felt this comfortable with the Ellis family?

Dismissing the foggy, useless thoughts from her mind, Cicely drew a long breath

and burrowed her face into the pillow.

When she awoke later, the room was dark. Groggily turning over, her hand

stretched out from under the covers and encountered warmth. The next second,

it was held.

She paused, turning her head to peer through the darkness. “Seth?”

“Sleeping until now. What are your plans for tonight, hmm?”

Cicely inhaled deeply, sighing long and hard. “What time is it?”

“Seven.”

“Hmm…”

After sleeping the afternoon away, she certainly wouldn’t sleep early in the

evening.

*

So, after finishing dinner, the two of them returned home. After washing up,

Cicely hugged her laptop and searched online for wedding videos, wedding

styles, wedding venues, and even went as far as planning the honeymoon.

The two stayed in the study together, with Cicely wearing headphones. Except

for occasional faint sounds, there was hardly any noise.

Several times Seth looked up to see her utterly engrossed in the screen, her

expression one of intense focus.

Seth furrowed his brow in thought. Was this okay?

He knew what she was up to and could see her excitement about the wedding.

But given her personality, shouldn’t she be coming over to ask for his opinion

now and then? Yet, she was too quiet, as if her excitement was hers alone.

He waited for her to come over and share something—anything—but as the

clock ticked past eleven, there was no sign of her doing so.

“Getting late, we should go to sleep,” Seth said, his voice carrying a chill.

“Well, I’m not sleepy yet. You go ahead,” she replied, unfazed.

Seth stood up with a frosty expression and walked over to her. Towering above

Cicely, who was nestled on the couch, Seth didn’t wait for her to look up before

he removed her headphones, took the laptop away, and scooped her into his

arms.

Cicely opened her mouth to protest but ultimately, nothing came out. It wasn’t

until he laid her down on the bed that she finally voiced her discontent. “I feel

like there are still so many things I haven’t considered. I told you I wasn’t tired.”

“I am,” Seth replied curtly.

“If you’re tired, sleep. I’m not holding you back.”

“Sleep with me.”

She paused, a bit taken aback. “What, can’t sleep without me now?”

Seth didn’t answer, just pulled her close into his embrace. Cicely didn’t struggle.

She just cozied up within his arms.

“The wedding’s next year. No need to rush things now.”

“That’s not it. Just getting a head start, you know? My wedding has to be the

best-prepared event ever.”

“So, what have you figured out? What kind of wedding do you want? Have you

decided?”

She sighed. “I can’t decide. I want a beach wedding, but then a church is

classic. Those traditional-themed weddings have their charm. But I can’t quite

picture you in anything but a suit. Maybe we should stick to a hotel wedding—it’s

timeless and foolproof.”

Her voice was filled with indecision, and even her final decision seemed driven

more by his preferences than her own wishes. She still hadn’t asked what he

thought.

*

Come the weekend, true to his word, Seth took Cicely to a bridal boutique to try

on wedding gowns.

Men trying on formal wear seems a simple affair. Clad in a tailored black suit,

Seth embodied an air of indifferent nobility, the crisp lines accentuating his tall

figure. His calm demeanor belied his youthful age.

Seth sat on a plush sofa reserved for grooms-to-be, casually flipping through a

bridal magazine, his long fingers idly turning the pages.

The staff, cheeks flushed, kept stealing glances in his direction, their gazes

periodically drawn to him.

After some time, the automatic doors before him glided open. There stood

Cicely, radiant in a white wedding gown under the spotlight, as an attendant

meticulously adjusted her train before stepping back with an approving smile

aimed at Seth. “The bride is ready.”

Seth’s gaze had already lifted to meet Cicely, adorned in a simple bridal

makeup. The mermaid-cut gown hugged her figure from chest to waist to hips to

just above the knees, showcasing her stunning silhouette. The off-shoulder

design revealed her graceful collarbones, dotted with faint pink marks.

The staff’s initial gasps of admiration quickly turned into blushing whispers as

they noticed the marks on Cicely’s skin. Their eyes darted back to Seth, their

minds undoubtedly concocting a vivid narrative of passionate intimacy behind

closed doors. Just by looking at the marks left on her, they could imagine the

fervor of their private encounters.Cicely was undeniably beautiful, a local belle known for her stunning looks since

childhood. Her inherent pride was unmatched, and while some found her

personality challenging, many envied her grace and radiance.

Seth was convinced he had seen her at her most beautiful. Yet the moment he

looked up and saw her, his eyes involuntarily narrowed. Her beauty was elastic,

always managing to shatter previous notions of elegance and allure.

At the bridal boutique, the photographer cradled the camera, constantly shifting

angles to capture Cicely in this moment.

Cicely was slightly embarrassed by the revealing marks, and though she never

felt constrained by her wardrobe before, today she felt an unusual sense of

Enter title…

nervousness. “How does it look?”

Seth’s gaze swept over her again, “Gorgeous, but maybe the next one will be

even better.”

Was that a diplomatic way of expressing dissatisfaction?d2

The attendant beside Cicely quickly added, “Ms. Cicely’s figure is perfect. This

gown highlights all of her best features.”

Seth’s gaze fixated on Cicely’s face, “Do you like it?”

A hint of disappointment flickered in Cicely’s eyes, “Of course, I’d hope you’d

like it too.”

Suddenly, Seth stood and walked towards her. She watched in confusion as he

lifted the trailing veil from behind her, wrapped it around her shoulders, then

around her waist, and finally tied a knot above her knee. After stepping back to

take another look, he nodded satisfactorily, “If it’s like this, then this one might

work after all.”

Cicely fell silent.

The attendants finally understood the situation. Aside from his handsome looks,

Seth seemed to carry an adorable possessiveness and a strong hint of jealousy.

“Then perhaps we shouldn’t bother with this one.” If the gown’s only advantage

was to be concealed, what was the point?

Seth couldn’t be happier. “Try on some others then.”

Cicely couldn’t even muster up anger, only to retreat back into the dressing

room.

Seth smirked and settled back onto the couch.

Trying on wedding dresses took time, and most of the staff were gathered

around, watching Seth and anticipating Cicely’s next appearance.

An employee entered, calling the manager, “The actors from our partnered

production are here to try on dresses.”

“I’ll be right there.” The woman acknowledged as Manager greeted Seth and

hurried off.

Cicely chose a more conservative dress for her second fitting, a long-sleeve

lace gown with a small train and a V-neck. Unsurprisingly, Seth was pleased.

Cicely rolled her eyes. This man, despite his young age, had rather conservative

tastes.

The photographer snapped a few more pictures, including some of Seth and

Cicely together.

After trying on two dresses, Cicely was exhausted. She couldn’t tell if Seth was

growing impatient, but she was ready to surrender.

They left the VIP dressing room, Seth went to get the car, and Cicely spoke to

the receptionist, “Please save a copy of the photos we took.”

“Sure, may I have your email?”

Cicely wrote down her address.

“This one for the beginning, this one for the grand finale.”

Cicely’s brow furrowed at the familiar voice, and as she turned to leave,

Danielle’s gaze fell upon her.

Danielle’s confusion turned to a dark realization upon seeing Cicely’s face.

Cicely had no intention of putting on a show for her. She walked away, but as

she passed by, Danielle suddenly grabbed her arm with a grip that made Cicely

frown. She turned to see a panicked Danielle, whose voice quivering, “What are

you doing here?”

Cicely glanced coldly at her gripped arm, “Let go.”

Danielle’s grip tightened, but upon seeing Cicely’s angry and impatient face, she

relented and asked again, “What are you doing here?”

“Is it any of your business?”

“Are you here to try on dresses with someone, or are you…”

“Do you think there’s anyone worth my time to accompany to a dress fitting?”

Danielle’s face paled, “You mean you…”

“What else?”

Cicely gave her a chilling look, “We’re both in P City, and I get the whole ‘hard to

avoid’ thing, but you’d better learn to take a detour when you see me. If that’s

too much, at least don’t come looking for me. I’m holding back now, not because

I can’t take action. Understand?”

Danielle stood pale as Cicely’s words echoed. They weren’t new, but they struck

hard. All Danielle could focus on was that Cicely was here trying on wedding

dresses, which meant she was getting married.

To whom? Who else but Seth could Cicely marry?

Rubbing her wrist, Cicely left the boutique with a cold expression, finding Seth’s

car waiting at the entrance.

Danielle belatedly followed, witnessing Cicely get into Seth’s car. If not for the

white pillar she clung to, she might have collapsed then and there.

fellow

into the pillar, her

agree to their marriage? No, this can’t

car disappear through the

She bit her lip, staring blankly out the door, lost in

*

Ellis family announced Seth and Cicely’s wedding

set for the following July 28th. Despite the preparations,

a stir

Patty paid a visit to the Ellis

the Ellis family, descended

there, looking as somber as ever,

Danielle.

complexion was pallid, hardly any trace

resting bitch face, so Cicely

attention.

time

managed a thin smile, “Indeed, it’s been

many for New Year’s,

seat next to Creighton, “It’s the least I could

say, you’ve become quite the stranger at

a third party. This ruby necklace, I’ve been coveting

a place to buy it. I mentioned

but to no avail. I had nearly given up hope, and then

it. I absolutely adore it, and Seth mentioned

get it. Very thoughtful of

fixing on the

had no

Seth got it and passed it

favor with

forced a smile, “Seth really deserves

her focus back

are about to be united took me by surprise. Me and

daughter. Your friend and my friend. Sounds

charming, doesn’t it?”

Patty’s laughter was unmistakable. She said it

more of a joke. There

her words.

“It’s all fate. Family ties

always a joyous occasion.”

sipped her tea, concealing

way.” As if recalling something,

well in the entertainment industry. And with Seth

look out for her. Don’t

matters.

hope he’ll avoid unnecessary

grew wider and colder. Patty was implying that

taking care of Danielle, it only made sense for her

company. Since Cicely wouldn’t be managing

of it and not cause

responded with a frosty politeness, “With Danielle’s

about. Should any issue arise, the

her back. I am the one marrying Seth, not Danielle.

obligation to cater

unmarried, it’s the Ellis family’s duty

someone else’s.”

smile faded ever

Diaz family, isn’t she just that? I

my mother

you considered me like a daughter

looked at Cicely’s carefree, beautiful face,

seen you as

perhaps I’ve been ungrateful, feeling like an outsider

I trust you’ll treat

my future with Seth and the

A stable home is the foundation of

let someone like Danielle create

Seth distress and impacting his

trouble.”

on Cicely grew icy. “The Ellis family will

or him looking after Danielle, it’s all

concern for another day. There will always be

needs to

lips curled into a cold smirk, her eyes turning towards Danielle,

been silent throughout.

attention. It seems Seth and I will

match to

complexion turned even paler. Seth finding her

thought was more torturous than death itself. Cicely

twist the

it

can you truly handle it on

no one denies you’re an

If you’re facing trouble, seek

her face a mix

marry into the Diaz family, you think

with me over scraps, just because Patty

but then you’d be the one putting Patty in a tight spot,

be

welcome.”

Danielle was the focal

Cicely and the entire Diaz family. It

Cicely said wasn’t exactly polite, today was the day

on the table, even if it meant taking

out what difficult matter it is. You

solve it, but someone like

matters, can take care

muster a reply. Even Patty herself,

reassess Danielle with new scrutiny after Cicely’s

comeback for Cicely.

most convincing, sounding like the absolute truth. Every

thoughts

was all too familiar with Danielle’s silenced, frustrated demeanor,

small, knowing smile. “If you decided

spine.”

“You think you’re so perfect? What have you

What right do you have to judge whether I have a

not?”

in the living room

sip

right as the lady from the Ellis

to offer him everything that the Ellis family has

you?”

clenched tighter, her face turning even paler. Cicely’s claim

Seth left her

discomfort was palpable to everyone, as Cicely

more, her eyes warmly detached,

was right

counter Cicely’s words. Young as she

Even Patty’s intervention

was left speechless

remarks.

found Danielle to be

Danielle was indeed

and throughout the

hoping she’d bring up her contract once more. But aside

matter of

lip, her heart seething

with Patty. The silence during their drive prompted

“Think about it, if Cicely managed to keep Seth

skill. You two are

but Seth chose her in the

consider why. She used some tricks, but

for it to

down. Even if Seth marries her, it

influence. Men

at first, Patty

But so what?

followed by a harsh abandonment, wouldn’t the hurt be

the rest of her life and even

daughter seduced her son.

and daughter, whoever got punished, it would be a consolation

Patty, a delicious revenge.

Why could Millie

she yearned for but couldn’t have was Millie’s.

of being loved, turned out to be a lie centered

Millie.

shouldn’t be Millie’s was all

was a tragedy, and what she

had become a pathetic joke because of Millie. And now,

living a charmed life that others

It was utterly detestable.

it seemed like karma had come

doesn’t love Cicely? If he really gets

Patty, is all of this true? Can

ways to get the Ellis family. I’ll have shares in it, too.

instead of going to all this

holds the reins

choose you

a

the picture and Cicely

in the Ellis family, the power

getting married with Cicely?

The

hopeless the

Patty didn’t get a response from Danielle, Danielle’s

her heart. Because Danielle’s reasoning made

Year’s, the big award ceremonies began

swept up the major

Supporting Actress, and as a guest performer

As the year drew to a close,

for the coming year. For celebrities

it was also about locking

for the new year.

had surged, and she

at

in, including some from major productions. After

secured a lead role in a big-budget

her focus for the

too, had a fair

Enter title…

the same circles, running into each

normal.

was the justifiable excuse Cicely had found for Seth in

hospital hallway, propped

Cicely arrived at the hospital, Charlie was standing

room. From Charlie’s

injuries weren’t too severe.

stiff body, which had strained to get there,

against

legs, which had almost given way

strength.

a car accident,

to the hospital. It was as

raced, as if it had

Charlie began, “Mr. Diaz is okay, just a

and a few scrapes from

Miss Danielle, she’s

hand on the wall twitched slightly, her

face as his

see him,” she said.

for a moment, “Mr. Diaz is not in the room

her

room?”

forced a smile, “Mr. Diaz asked me to

later, Cicely chuckled, “Charlie, there’s no need

is my cousin, after all. I should check on her, whether or not she’s

there because of Seth.”

and realized she had a point, but since

Ms. Cicely, he must have

reasons.

just turned to go. She

her; if she was determined to find out, there were

ways to do so.

I’ll take you there.” It was something

reception

getting on her bad

reached the operating room, they saw

a hospital gown, he was

was bandaged, and his face and neck had

arms and legs probably did

stood motionless in front of

but as Cicely drew closer, she

brow, a clear sign of

he glanced briefly at

head.

stand beside him, facing the operating room

has it been?”

glanced at her overly calm face, his brow creasing slightly

digital display above the operating

minutes.”

tugged at her lip, seventy-six minutes. So

see,” she replied

his gaze on her, seemingly

asked, “Anything

not a doctor, and neither

us really knows how

I ask? Or maybe I

voice soft and slow, devoid of any aggression.

had happened at all. She also

sisterly concern while Danielle was undergoing a critical

too realistic

from the side, suddenly thinking it might be better to be a

it was two people who

accident that night.

suddenly said as if remembering something,

happen in

his

slightly, “It

nodded, “I see,” and turned back to

Seth’s deep voice lingered

him, a puzzled look

to ask how I’m

him a once-over. Just one glance. Then her soft

“Charlie told me you

says it’s not serious,

not blind.” She looked up at the digital clock overhead,

for eighty minutes and seem fine. Do I really need to

it is? If you want me to ask, I can. So, how badly

was it. Mr. Diaz had fallen into

serious, standing outside Ms. Danielle’s operating room for

an act of profound concern

Cicely’s ever-gentle face and

and, after standing for a moment, sat down

nearby chair.

a call and left, apparently regarding the car

at the operating room door,

“I’m tired. If you’re not going back to your room, I’ll go home. I’ll come

to see you tomorrow.”

didn’t warrant keeping vigil at

operating room.

was past 1

alarmed her father or grandfather with the news

spook them in the dead of

for Patty, hence

assistant Allie

no one else.

else could you expect? It

energy was a

voice seemed too distinct in the silent corridor. Allie

unsure what

turned to look at Cicely,

this, Cicely offered, “How about I go back

a beat, “You can head home

expression turned

I’ll leave then and come

“Mm.”

response, Cicely

around the corridor’s bend while Seth watched until she was

sight.

it was just Seth and Allie in the hallway. Allie, feeling awkward,

need for us all to be here. You’re hurt too.

stay on watch and let you know

words hung unanswered

when Cicely saw Charlie still in the parking lot,

worn out himself.

“Ms. Cicely.”

surprised,

You should get some

was still a bit dazed,

at the OR. If

clamped his mouth

the car, Cicely leaned against the window, rubbing her temple.

about Danielle’s accident tomorrow

was driving,

ten-minute drive, Cicely, who seemed to have dozed off,

up. “I heard

the rearview mirror. She was

face partly hidden by

her life’s not

too much.”

snorted softly. “The way things are

if she kicked the bucket. If I’m worried

hurt but

but Issac knew that

never lift a finger to

Just carry me upstairs when we get

“Okay.”

*

Charlie reported his findings to Seth. “It was Ray’s

took a hit out.”

change much. The news

police are involved now.”

in. Things were

grunted

hesitated, then said, “Mr.

IV. I can stay here

but stopped

“Mr. Diaz, be careful with your injury. Maybe you should go

rest.

“It’s okay.”

even less now. But he did sit where

his movements betraying a hint

despite his smooth

back at the sealed OR door,

and pursed

*

laying her on the bed and

to

“Remember to close the bedroom

“Will do.”

watched her, now just a sliver of her face visible, the rest obscured by

might’ve seemed just

night’s drama involving Danielle

left, and Cicely remained motionless. She was

*

on little sleep, she was up early the next day. When the

Cicely already in the living room,

up

long, she’d never seen this

had an accident last night. Make

me

accident?

said a mild concussion, some scrapes,

from the glass.”

maid paused. That didn’t sound ‘not serious’ at all. “Didn’t you stay with

last night?”

Cicely remained silent.

she might have overstepped, the maid hurriedly excused herself

prepare breakfast.

was ablaze with news of the accident. It seemed there was

dad; they were likely

dressed and

waiting in

the suitcase from her.

wasn’t heavy, and it even had wheels,

from her hands without a word the moment she arrived. It

nature.

was Cicely for you, pampered from birth, never having to lift a finger

anything.

suitcase in tow, was heading for the door when Cicely made a

room, “I’ve prepared breakfast. Let’s eat together before we

the hospital.”

watched Cicely’s retreating figure for a

the dining room and taking

her.

to go,

the young

them, before slowly placing the food box on the

is here.”

acknowledged with a

*

Seth’s room was empty. Issac placed

food box down, his expression turning

rang; it was Creighton. She stepped

and answered the call, “Dad…” but before

“Did you know Danielle was in a

accident last night?”

“Yes, I’m aware.”

brief silence on Creighton’s end, “Where

stopped a passing nurse with a hand gesture, “Could you check

woman who was in an accident last

phone, probably

system, “She’s in V66.”

the VIP

audible “Hmm” from Creighton,

reached Danielle’s room, Patty stood

Danielle with an expression of pain and

to the man standing beside her, his

for you, and yet, what

go home and

who you should not?” Seth’s expression was far from

was hurt, sleepless from the night before, and his dark

deliberate coldness, held a certain dry

“Cicely?”

the door, and Creighton’s familiar voice called out

with confusion, “Why aren’t you

snapped up suddenly, landing on Cicely, who was

back over

His eyes narrowed slightly.d2

Enter title…

face was etched with a

the umpteenth time, Seth found

rush. No life-threatening danger, she just has to suffer

reassured, taking Erik’s arm.

the hospital room.

Cicely with a look

taken up

might have overheard.

never left Cicely. Danielle’s attending

had arrived, hurried

the kid going to be alright?” Erik’s concern was

middle fingers

broken

treatment and rest, she’ll be healed in

months.”

“Gosh! That serious.”

were indeed severe, and Erik’s heart

might get angry at Danielle from time to time, but in

time like this, he still felt a pang of

smile on her face

of that injury was enough to evoke thoughts of how serious

slight mistake, and

real.

unconscious

slipping across her

Impressive, indeed.

Cicely’s voice suddenly broke

doctor hesitated, “It won’t affect normal

ability to perform complex dance moves,

sorry…”

vague and tactful. There were

couldn’t perform highdifficulty dance movements had been just

confidence could a dancer have if

execute even “complex” moves?

That won’t do!”

dance and piano

was scheduled to take her piano

remained silent, simply giving Seth a fleeting

His brow furrowed distinctly.

atmosphere in the room

Danielle, who lay there oblivious, Cicely felt a wave of

wash over her.

late night, or perhaps

at Seth, “I brought breakfast for you;

to head back now?”

few seconds, Seth rose to his feet and moved towards

turned to Erik and Creighton,

pointless for so many of us

rest. Should we disperse?”

Her logic was sound.

left the hospital room, leaving only the special assigned

watch over Danielle.

Cicely followed Seth back to his

box and placed

and pulled out

with a spoon, the silence

seemed to belong

Seth had vanished from the

binding him and

you guys hear? I witnessed the accident. The car that

for Mr. Diaz’s car, but Danielle’s vehicle suddenly

seemed

taking the hit. Her brand

risking their lives to protect each other?

called love?]

know that the two of them came

a drop

in sync, or is

they were together

exited the feed and launched

anything?”

her gaming.

looking up, Cicely responded,

between you and Danielle?”

Seth’s frown deepened, “No.”

tone was indifferent, her attitude casual,

which puts me at ease. But why do you need me

been together long. If I had to question you about

sooner rather

making mistakes and then use that as an

leave me.”

really wanted to leave, would the reason matter?” Seth replied

slowly lifted her

you’ve considered

spoonful of oatmeal

addressing your

with a slight smile, “I won’t

if you and Danielle occasionally

and her ended up

the same car accident on the same road, if you say there’s

her, then I

maybe you don’t have to ease my

actually look forward

his dark eyes

were you expecting? That I’d

up with a wry smile, making her way over to him,

like a

a few containers into a lunchbox, stealing a

look like you haven’t slept a wink

and said you haven’t

to

explain

placing the lunchbox on a nearby cabinet, Cicely chuckled

to worry about? The ball’s always been in

up the dining area and stand by his bedside, “Lie

nurse to come set up your

approached the topic with a nonchalance that implied

press it, changing the subject

“What about you?”

against the law if I, as your

play it safe, sticking around definitely

Seth spoke, he settled back

simply keeping watch

He hadn’t slept all night, and Cicely

of talking to him. The hospital room gradually

them breathing calmly and

passed, Cicely set her phone aside, lifted her gaze to

drip, and finally let her eyes

serene, her gaze distant, thoughts

IV

staff, ordering lunch for two, asking Issac to deliver

the nurse to

lunch and

ten minutes, she returned, carrying the lunchbox,

bed empty.

placed the lunchbox on the cabinet, her eyes downcast as she

it, smiling slightly in

remained silent, and the nurse on the side had to speak up. “The

woke up, the

Probably?

was more than

*

head, and even

could see it clearly.

weak and hoarse, “Seth, are you

Seth

features softened with relief,

“That’s good.”

come to see

rest up and follow the doctor’s

voice and demeanor

I badly injured? How long do I need

Seth’s brow furrowed slightly.

Listen to the doctor and you should be back on your feet

months.”

Danielle’s eyes as she shook

in a

I’m about to start filming, and

how critical it is, you’re in

negotiation.”

bit her lip, closing her eyes

his gaze

added, “Focus

another role for you.”

quivered with disbelief, staring at Seth as if to

misheard.

“Seth…”

by then, I won’t consider you for the role

burst into tears

care

as he turned his

the Ellis

“You should have lunch.”

obediently agreed, and the overly cautious servant propped

of

Danielle in his arms for the servant to

gently set her

fiercely. This was the closest

since they had

appetite. Although the lunch brought by the Ellis

frowned

to speak and refuse, she lifted her eyes

yet dangerously

*

her lunch, Seth returned

same nurse he saw upon

lunchbox sat on the nightstand, clearly from

lady said this is home-cooked, and she

back. She doesn’t like the hospital’s smell, and she’s

some air right

silent, opening the lunchbox to find the food had been touched,

good portion missing.

nurse added, “The lady had some of

he glanced at the

room,

long ago remained untouched.

nurse blushed as she tidied up the medical

Seth’s exposed arm

“What happened?” Cicely inquired.

stated, slipping

must be careful now. Make sure to protect

any kind of strain.”

approached Seth, frowning with the

nurse, she discreetly withdrew

the man adjusting his sleeve, a playful

scuffle with Danielle and end

properly, “She’s practically incapacitated

an eyebrow. So what did

beneath him to lay hands on

felt obliged to take extra

huff, propping her chin on her hand

him. “Seth, I don’t want to go through this again.

until you’re in shape, you’ve got

to see you hurt,

you back to health. I want to see you getting better,

discharged, not languishing here, getting

much change

concern. After leisurely chewing

staying in the hospital, I can

any time.”

for a moment before

and you’re asking if I like the

that say about how I usually treat you—like some kind

you’re doing great,”

pretty well, too. But you seem less than

if I’m

that the nurse, busy as a beaver tidying

of discord and made a hasty retreat from

since you don’t like staying

take care of me. What gave

impression I’m dissatisfied?”

tone was as flat as a pancake, devoid of ripples, patiently explaining

rather than the one

Enter title…

gaze for a moment longer. “Falling ill is as common as

to be

pointing fingers. Just focus

his brow, putting down his fork

mean by

her lips. “Nothing.

didn’t buy her nonchalance, but he knew pressing for a real answer

getting blood from a

don’t look

brought a ton of work

let

Seth’s side. “I’ll leave you to

in with a laptop and a

in

off the chilly gaze that had

a second skin.

the underlying tension between the two under the

He

company to

door for a long moment

had finished her lunch not long before, was propped up

Cicely coldly as she

“What do you want?”

if you’ve kicked the bucket

to Cicely’s acerbic wit, Danielle simply smirked. “Sorry

disappoint.”

lifted the blanket

discontent and anger with her

“What are you doing?”

the sight of Danielle’s

withdrew her hand, her gaze flicking over

hands.

“Indeed, very disappointing.”

out a cold

try not to be a burden. It’s quite a feat to

your condition.”

frowned. “What do

in Cicely’s head as she observed Danielle’s

figure, a sudden epiphany.

of her lips, she said, “After leaving

wound on his arm. People who don’t know any better might think

had a fight.”

her expression

on his arm, he still

her face, betraying

her back to

leave, she didn’t

to

hospital, Cicely left to seek the

with Seth, their sparse

an hour after Cicely’s departure, the

as he saw the

at the door. “Good day, sir. I’m your

Ms. Cicely. Please let me know if you need

sneaked a glance at Seth, whose cold

icy.

caught off guard by the

comment, asked Charlie about some work-related items,

file and stood

in the same position,

up with a smile as Seth

Seth approached.

Danielle nodded.

her, but Danielle refused his

can ask

maid from the Ellis

“Just be careful about your

He straightened up and lowered his

“How did

but still said, “Cicely came by this

he

the bed.

“How bad is it?”

“It’s nothing.”

Danielle at

return that night, but she

asked, “What did she

much, just glad you’re okay. She insisted I be careful with

come by tomorrow.”

*

next day just past noon,

room.

brighter

brimming with vitality.

there needed

place like that.

got some good rest yesterday,” Seth remarked

a food container

soup. It’s really

stepped forward, raised the bed table, and laid out the food

the containe, which was

light yet hearty.

his mood cooling despite the lively

before him today.

to your

at her. “Why

“Isn’t it enough? I prepared it according to your

It’s definitely

you’re not

it dawned on her that he was being

eaten at home.”

he

won’t

taken aback. “Are you threatening

turned his

as is going hungry. Do you

think I care?”

Still, Seth remained quiet.

him for a long while, understanding

to budge.

moved to his bedside, sat down, and picked up the

the plate.

“Come on, eat.”

twitched ever so slightly. He turned to

you’ve

tightened. She was about

when he spoke again.

arm’s not

he was implying. Her lips parted, almost spitting out a retort,

she held back.

fed you

is

couldn’t help

a straight-laced man could

the next few days, Seth’s injury continued to heal without

was discharged to recuperate at

wanted to take care of him personally,

it was Cicely’s duty to care

and

told, Cicely wasn’t the

home, instead of taking care of him, she

like royalty.

Creighton fell ill unexpectedly.

Ellis family

since learning of Danielle’s accident

downcast, which now seemed

toll on his health.

Cicely found Creighton dozing in

him. To an outsider, he might look

someone under the weather,

illness was clear on his face, a

warm, bright sunlight couldn’t

softly. Creighton’s brow furrowed, then his

are

“You’re not feeling well.”

seat opposite him, pouring herself a

it, given that she had come back so

a serious accident, it

Cicely couldn’t imagine what

so suddenly.

it’s just a matter of recovery. Whatever the severity, it’s all

dwelling

Cicely’s consolation sounded detached.

a moment. “We’re all

“If that’s the case, you should be more

that aren’t your

matter how much you

content knowing we did

advantage

your efforts for granted. I

be unconditionally kind

world long enough to

truths, b

life’s ups and downs,

treating family even better.

can genuinely care for each

just comfort me. You shouldn’t fuss over some things

their own unavoidable difficulties. As long as Seth is loyal to

always quarrel with him.”

the chair armrest, her eyes halfclosed as she watched the bright, multicolored chrysanthemums

gaze as distant as

like I’m always

to

Seth. The more you like someone, the more you care. Anyway, he is

is not above doing something to be frowned

happy, that’s what counts.”

smiled faintly. “You’re so sure about him. My trust

than yours, Dad. Don’t worry; I’ll

her for a while, then nodded

Cicely understood Creighton’s concerns.

their thoughts were

Cicely was no fool, and neither

thorn had lodged in

sprout.

healed, and life

paid off her debts with her job and went

diligently.

the two would leave

there was about a fifty percent chance that Seth would join

home together. But now, even that slim chance

disappeared.

year drew to a close, every company was swamped

was probably drowning in

weekend before the winter holidays, Cicely had

lunch at the

crowd was larger than usual, everyone with

tackled the tasks at hand. It seemed either something

simply bitten off more work than they could

the Finance Department, which was rumored

for two straight

were holed up in the conference

of the secretaries,

tense.

the office, but before

man strode in briskly, heading straight

the sofa, a brief

himself, “Ms.

of her brow, Cicely watched him, her eyes dancing

hand

we’ve met before.”

who could waltz into Seth’s

wouldn’t dare, and only his

judging by how familiar this man seemed with the layout

desk…

she had

Shane, Mr.

quirked ever so slightly, “He

clutching the documents he came for, replied with some

trusted aide. Mr. Diaz

someone,

to step in. My apologies, Ms. Cicely. Mr.

on Seth’s

posed with its paw raised, cradling a photo

picture inside, accompanied

was a stark contrast to the

remained silent, and Shane exited without further

minutes passed before the office door swung open again,

crisp suit and an aura

so slightly at

papers on his desk, he turned

Enter title…

been

gaming app and shook

long.”

gestured towards the carved wooden lunchbox on the coffee table,

with you today, so I’ve brought us quite the

half-smile tugged at Seth’s lips, “Thanks to you, I’m treated to a lavish

agreement, picking

the meal, she would occasionally pause to glance at

only to look up

sequence repeated several

after finishing lunch did Cicely

why didn’t we

was a slight pause from

filled with a playful dissatisfaction—it was less of a

of a

always dessert. Have

it’s no big deal

to have a word with

in today. I forgot to order it,” Seth

go

Cicely said lightly, with a carefree

same when you try to make

later.”

and nonchalant, but Seth wasn’t dense;

message he chose

clear away the lunchbox

be

shopping, or visit Emiliana on set?

driver.”

the coat rack to

Charlie’s driving. If he’s

looked back at Seth,

gaze remained on her, noting her bundled figure and the faint smile on

indifferent as he reiterated, “He’s

nodded, her demeanor

Issac earlier. He’s

face

to bring the lunchbox home with you. I’m going out to

be passing by, so I’ll leave you to your

she spoke, Cicely was already at the door, turning the

she had vanished from the

closed door, his expression as gloomy as the overcast

outside.

waiting by the entrance.

opened the car door for

keys. I’ll drive

don’t have a

I know the rules of the road. If I get

you’ll handle it.”

forecast said

can drive in the

all about your

you want, but I’m driving. If you don’t

just going to pick up a car from the

doubt Cicely’s sincerity. Rather than