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.

okay?” Her fellow actor noticed Danielle’s distress and

into the pillar, her eyes filled

ever agree to their marriage? No,

watched the car disappear through the glass doors,

staring blankly out the door,

*

Day, the Ellis family announced Seth and

the following July 28th. Despite the preparations,

a stir

later, Patty paid a visit

the Ellis family,

looking as somber

Danielle.

any trace of

bitch face, so Cicely didn’t pay her

attention.

time

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

many

Creighton, “It’s the least

say, you’ve become quite the stranger

third party. This

find a place to buy it. I mentioned it to Seth

I had nearly given up hope, and then

it, and

get it.

on

value. She had no idea Patty wanted it, let

got it and passed

with her

forced a smile, “Seth really deserves most of

she shifted her focus

be united took me by surprise. Me and Tod’s

Your

charming, doesn’t it?”

irony in Patty’s laughter was unmistakable. She

was more of a joke. There was

her words.

expression darkened slightly, “It’s all

always a joyous occasion.”

tea, concealing her

recalling something, Patty set

entertainment industry. And

her.

company matters.

Still, we hope he’ll avoid unnecessary

wider and colder. Patty was implying that

taking care of Danielle, it only made sense for

with Seth’s company. Since Cicely wouldn’t be managing

and not cause Seth

responded with a frosty politeness,

little to worry about. Should any issue

have her back. I am the

responsibility, and Seth has no obligation to cater to her needs. As long

remains unmarried, it’s the Ellis family’s duty to take care of

someone else’s.”

faded ever so slightly, “Someone

isn’t she just that? I know

but as you just mentioned, my mother is your best friend as well.

you considered me like a daughter all

looked at Cicely’s carefree, beautiful

I’ve never seen you as

been ungrateful, feeling like an outsider all this

soon be family, and I trust you’ll treat us with

my future with Seth and the Diaz family, let’s not let outsiders

the foundation of

someone

his work—that would

trouble.”

gaze on Cicely grew icy. “The Ellis family

him looking after Danielle,

day. There will always be many people

to

a cold smirk, her eyes turning towards

been silent throughout.

indeed need special attention. It seems Seth and I will have to

suitable match to marry off.

turned even paler. Seth

was more torturous than

twist

life is my own, and it doesn’t

commendable, but can you truly

Danielle, no one denies you’re an Ellis. Have some

on others. If you’re facing trouble, seek your family,

tightly, her face a mix of

finally marry into the

me over scraps, just because Patty dotes

then you’d be the one putting Patty

you should be grateful for

welcome.”

focal point of conflict

entire Diaz

said wasn’t

even if it meant taking a hit to Danielle’s

difficult matter it is. You can’t solve

Ellis family can’t solve it,

can

a reply. Even

Danielle with new scrutiny after

no comeback for Cicely. Every time,

convincing, sounding like the absolute

thoughts

with

you decided on your own

spine.”

“You think you’re so perfect? What

proud of? What right do you have to judge whether I have

not?”

in the living

eyebrow, leisurely took a sip

lady from the Ellis family, and I have the chops to win

Ellis family has to offer. Does that

you?”

hands clenched tighter, her face turning even paler.

left

palpable to everyone, as Cicely nonchalantly

glass once more, her eyes warmly detached, betraying a serene smile

right in

pursed her lips, unable to counter Cicely’s words.

Even Patty’s

was left speechless by Cicely’s few

remarks.

Danielle to be a nuisance.

then Danielle was

dropped, and throughout the meal, Danielle

up her contract once more. But aside from

matter of

lip, her heart seething

The

“Think about it, if Cicely managed to keep Seth

that’s her skill. You two are both

line, but Seth chose her in

used some tricks, but to get what one

wait for it to be handed to you on a

need to be so down. Even if Seth marries her, it won’t last.

influence. Men always have some

was Seth’s reasoning, and at first, Patty

But so what?

followed by a harsh

miserable for the rest of her life and even

daughter seduced her son.

and daughter, whoever got punished, it would

Patty, a delicious revenge.

could Millie have all the

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

being loved, turned

Millie.

shouldn’t be Millie’s was all

tragedy, and what she did have was

become a pathetic joke because of Millie. And

charmed

It was utterly detestable.

like karma had

“So Seth doesn’t love Cicely?

her? Patty, is all of this true? Can

There are many ways to get the Ellis family. I’ll have shares in

choose me to help him instead of going to

face darkened, “Creighton holds the reins of

choose you over

paused, realizing it was a

and Cicely wasn’t with Seth, with

in the Ellis family, the power would

getting married with Cicely?

anxiety growing. The more

and hopeless the answers

response from Danielle,

on her heart. Because Danielle’s reasoning

New Year’s, the big

of Elegance” swept up the

as a guest performer at the

reignited her popularity. As the year drew to a close,

celebrities like Danielle, it wasn’t just

it was also about locking in their

for the new year.

popularity had surged, and she had been networking with

directors at

including some from major productions.

role in a big-budget

her focus for the

a fair

Enter title…

the same circles,

normal.

excuse Cicely had found for Seth in advance

hospital hallway, propped

at the hospital, Charlie was standing guard at

Charlie’s expression, Cicely

injuries weren’t too severe.

which had strained to get there,

with her hands against the corridor

legs, which had almost given way due to weakness, to slowly

strength.

had been in a car accident, and

get to the hospital. It was as if she had amnesia, unable

her heart had raced,

Diaz is okay, just a mild

bruises, and a few scrapes from

Danielle, she’s still in

on the wall twitched slightly, her gaze flitting over

on Charlie’s face as his voice trailed off. “I’m

see him,” she said.

face stiffened for a moment, “Mr. Diaz is not

blinked and nodded, her

room?”

Diaz asked me

there’s no need to

my cousin, after all. I should check on her, whether or not

there because of Seth.”

realized she had a point, but since

him to stay with Ms.

reasons.

hesitance, Cicely just turned to go. She didn’t need to

was determined to find out, there were

ways to do so.

hurried after her, “Ms. Cicely. I’ll take you there.” It

found out from the reception desk. Why

on her

operating room, they saw

outside. Even in a hospital gown, he was

and his face and

arms and legs probably did too,

in front of the operating

as Cicely drew closer, she saw the slight furrow

a clear

he glanced briefly at Charlie, who immediately

head.

moved to stand beside him, facing

has it been?”

at her overly calm face,

up at the digital display above the

minutes.”

tugged at her lip,

she replied lightly,

gaze on her, seemingly

then asked, “Anything

a

guess neither of us really knows

should I ask? Or maybe I

gentle, her voice soft

as if nothing had happened at all. She also didn’t

concern while Danielle was undergoing a critical surgery.

was too realistic and

the side, suddenly thinking it might be better to

was two people

accident that night.

said as if

in the

closed his eyes

“It was

see,” and turned back to

deep voice lingered

a puzzled look

going to ask

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

“Charlie told me

says it’s not serious, and

up at the digital clock overhead, “You’ve

out here for eighty minutes and seem fine. Do I really need

If you want me to ask, I can. So, how badly are you

skipped a beat. This was it. Mr.

it was serious, standing outside Ms. Danielle’s operating room

seem like an act of

at Cicely’s ever-gentle face and finally said, “Not

eyebrow and, after standing for a

nearby chair.

and left, apparently regarding the car

minutes later, with no change at the

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

to see you tomorrow.”

keeping vigil at the

operating room.

past 1

hadn’t alarmed her father or

them in the

Patty, hence aside from himself,

and Danielle’s assistant Allie who rushed over,

no one else.

but what else could

was a scarce

seemed too distinct in the silent corridor.

unsure what to

Cicely, his eyes

Cicely offered, “How about I go back to the room with

beat, “You can

expression turned

I’ll leave

“Mm.”

response, Cicely turned and walked away, her

while Seth watched

sight.

Allie in the hallway. Allie,

all to be here. You’re hurt

some rest? I’ll stay on watch and let you

hung unanswered

was nearing 2 a.m. when Cicely saw Charlie still

worn out himself.

“Ms. Cicely.”

surprised, “You’re heading

get some

was still a bit dazed,

If you need him,

his mouth

the car, Cicely leaned against the window, rubbing

and dad about Danielle’s accident tomorrow

who was driving,

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

up. “I heard Danielle’s crash

through the rearview mirror. She

her face partly hidden by hair, her

with the paramedics. They said her life’s not in danger, so don’t

too much.”

“The way things are between us, I’d be

if she kicked the bucket. If I’m worried

but not

sounded spiteful, but Issac knew that no matter

she’d never lift a

carry me

“Okay.”

*

reported his findings to Seth. “It

took a hit out.”

expression didn’t change much. The

added, “The police are involved now.” Which meant

in. Things were

merely grunted

the OR door, hesitated, then said,

can

but

your injury. Maybe you should

to rest. I’ll

“It’s okay.”

leave before, even less now. But he did sit where

earlier, his movements betraying

despite his

OR door, thinking of Cicely

and pursed

*

room, laying her on the

care. She was too tired to even open her

covers. “Remember to

“Will do.”

watched her, now just a sliver of her face

might’ve seemed just ordinarily

drama involving Danielle and

remained

*

early the next day. When the

living room,

you’re up

never seen this little miss

accident last night. Make three

with me to

my, an accident?

a mild concussion,

from the glass.”

didn’t sound ‘not serious’

last night?”

Cicely remained silent.

might have overstepped, the maid hurriedly excused

prepare breakfast.

the accident. It seemed there

tell grandpa and dad; they were likely already

got dressed and packed a couple of

was waiting in the living room and

the suitcase from her.

even had

word the moment she arrived. It

nature.

for you, pampered from birth, never having to lift a

anything.

for the

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

the hospital.”

watched Cicely’s retreating figure for a

dining room and taking a

her.

up Seth’s breakfast to go, paused

young mistress.

before slowly placing the food

is here.”

with a

*

hospital, Seth’s room was empty.

down, his expression turning

was then that Cicely’s phone rang; it was Creighton. She stepped

and answered the call, “Dad…” but

through, “Did you

accident last night?”

“Yes, I’m aware.”

was a brief silence on Creighton’s end, “Where is

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

woman who was in an accident last night,

checked her phone, probably

system, “She’s in V66.”

towards the VIP elevator,

from Creighton, and Cicely

Patty stood at the

Danielle with an expression of pain and

the man

you,

to go home and sleep? Can you see clearly

love and who you should not?” Seth’s expression was

night

deliberate coldness, held

“Cicely?”

shuffled outside the door, and Creighton’s familiar

“Why aren’t you

gaze snapped up suddenly, landing on Cicely, who was

back over her

His eyes narrowed slightly.d2

Enter title…

her face was etched with

Seth found himself detesting

life-threatening danger, she just has to suffer a bit,”

reassured, taking Erik’s arm.

the hospital room.

with a look that was anything but

was unclear when Cicely had taken up her post at

might have overheard.

never left Cicely. Danielle’s attending

had arrived,

going to be alright?” Erik’s concern was

hand’s index and middle fingers are fractured, both legs have

there’s a broken rib in the chest. We’re

the surgeries, and with proper treatment and rest, she’ll be healed

months.”

“Gosh! That serious.”

injuries were indeed severe, and

time to time, but in the

a time like this, he

lips tightened, and the smile on her face uncontrollably

was enough to evoke

had been. Any slight mistake, and Danielle might have lost her life

real.

on Danielle’s unconscious face, a trace of

across her

Impressive, indeed.

voice suddenly broke

hesitated, “It won’t affect normal activities,

ability to perform complex dance moves,

sorry…”

vague and tactful. There were various

highdifficulty

a dancer have

execute even “complex” moves?

do you mean? That won’t do!” Patty’s voice, a bit sharp,

piano since she was little. She was

and next spring she was scheduled to

silent, simply giving Seth a fleeting

His brow furrowed distinctly.

in the room

who lay there oblivious,

wash over her.

perhaps because

brought breakfast for you; it’s in

to head back now?”

to his feet and moved towards

Erik and Creighton, suggesting, “The important

many of us to

rest. Should we disperse?”

Her logic was sound.

the hospital room, leaving

watch over Danielle.

Cicely

box and placed it in front of him, then

and

with a spoon, the silence in the

seemed to belong exclusively to

from

topics binding him and Danielle

witnessed the accident. The

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

to shield Mr. Diaz. Then it seemed Mr. Diaz realized and

up taking the hit. Her brand new car was

lives to

called love?]

them came out from the same club,

own cars. Surprisingly, they didn’t touch a drop of alcohol

Are they too in sync, or is there

You’re implying they were together from the start, aren’t

feed

ask me anything?” Seth’s voice broke through

her gaming.

looking up, Cicely responded, “Ask what? Did

between you and Danielle?”

Seth’s frown deepened, “No.”

Her tone was indifferent,

puts me at ease. But why do you need me to ask

been together long. If I had to question

fed up and dump me sooner rather than later. It wasn’t

making mistakes and

leave me.”

I really wanted to leave, would the reason matter?”

her head, smiling

you’ve considered dumping

finished his last spoonful of

addressing your

with a slight

you if you and

up in the same place

same car accident on the same road, if

and her, then I

ease my worries.

I actually look forward to them becoming

shifted, his dark eyes probing hers, emotion

were you expecting? That I’d drop

with a wry smile, making her way

more like a mutual

methodically packed a few containers into a lunchbox, stealing

eyes, “You look like you haven’t

said you

to be

going to explain what you

on a nearby cabinet,

to worry about? The ball’s always been in your court,

dining area and stand by his bedside, “Lie

a nurse to come set up your

a nonchalance

and Seth didn’t press

“What about you?”

the law if I, as your wife, didn’t keep vigil by your

it safe, sticking around

spoke, he settled back onto

remained silent, simply keeping

administered the IV. He hadn’t slept

to him. The hospital room gradually

breathing calmly

Cicely set her phone aside, lifted her gaze

finally let her

was serene, her

bags of IV fluids,

the house staff, ordering lunch for two, asking Issac to

she asked the nurse to keep an eye on Seth while

downstairs to grab lunch and get some

returned, carrying the lunchbox, only

bed empty.

lunchbox on the cabinet,

the edge of it,

the nurse on the side

woke up, the gentleman

Probably?

more

*

around his head, and even lying in

could see it clearly.

voice was weak and hoarse, “Seth, are you

look, Seth replied,

relief, her tone much

“That’s good.”

have come to see you.

need to do now is rest up

voice and demeanor becoming

will. But am I badly injured? How long do I

Seth’s brow furrowed slightly.

badly. Listen to the doctor and you should be back on

months.”

months?” Panic filled Danielle’s eyes as she shook

forming in a

I’m about to start filming, and this

critical it is, you’re in no shape to

negotiation.”

her lip, closing her eyes to hide the despair welling up

his gaze cool as he

added, “Focus on getting better, and

another role for you.”

at Seth as if to confirm she

misheard.

“Seth…”

not fully recovered by then, I won’t consider you for the

into tears

take care

remained indifferent as he turned his attention to

the Ellis

“You should have lunch.”

and the overly cautious

of causing any

silently approached, lifting Danielle in his arms

her, then gently

pounding fiercely. This

since they had known

had little appetite. Although the lunch brought by

injuries, she still frowned slightly when it

and refuse, she

yet dangerously stern

*

her lunch, Seth returned to his room, only

same nurse

on

is home-cooked, and she

like the hospital’s smell,

some air right

the lunchbox to find the food had been

good portion missing.

had some

he glanced at the fork before sitting on the

to the ward room, the lunch

long ago remained untouched.

blushed as she tidied

on Seth’s exposed arm

“What happened?” Cicely inquired.

nurse stated,

now. Make sure to protect your arms and

any kind of strain.”

frowning with the intent

the nurse, she discreetly withdrew

adjusting his sleeve, a playful smile tugging at

you get into a scuffle with Danielle and end up like

sleeve properly,

raised an eyebrow. So what

beneath him to lay hands

incapacitated and now he felt obliged to take

sank into the couch with a huff, propping her chin on her

to go through this again. You’ve got injuries

you’ve

else. Besides, it hurts me to see you hurt, and what’s more,

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

be discharged, not languishing here, getting worse with each

seem to show much change in response to Cicely’s

of sorrow and concern. After

the hospital, I can arrange for

any time.”

for a moment before letting out

and you’re asking if I like the hospital to decide whether to stay

about how I usually treat you—like some

you’re doing

“I think I’m doing pretty well, too. But you

me, if

nurse, busy as a beaver tidying up,

of discord and made a hasty retreat

So, since you don’t like staying in the hospital, I’ll

to continue having you take care of me. What

impression I’m dissatisfied?”

a pancake, devoid of ripples, patiently explaining as

were the caregiver rather than the one in

Enter title…

his gaze for a moment longer.

things that don’t need to be spelled out by me.

fingers. Just focus on

down his fork

you mean

pursed her lips. “Nothing.

her nonchalance, but he

blood from

waiting outside. You don’t look like

he’s probably brought a ton

to let Charlie in, then placed a

Seth’s side. “I’ll leave you

and a stack of papers, quickly clearing

in front

out of the room, Cicely shook off the

a second skin.

also sensed the underlying tension between the two

but he had no clue. He could only systematically report

the company to

Danielle’s door for a long moment

had finished her lunch not

coldly as

“What do you want?”

you’ve

wit, Danielle

disappoint.”

blanket off

discontent and anger with

“What are you doing?”

at the sight of Danielle’s bandaged,

hand, her gaze flicking over the bandages

hands.

“Indeed, very disappointing.”

let out a cold laugh but

a burden. It’s

your condition.”

“What do

in Cicely’s head as she observed

figure, a sudden epiphany.

lips, she

arm. People who don’t know any better

had a fight.”

her expression

wound on his arm, he

of joy passed over her face, betraying her emotions

Cicely snapped her

leave, she didn’t miss the fleeting joy on

answer to an

hospital, Cicely left to

their

departure, the door

he

the door.

Cicely. Please let

glance at Seth,

icy.

caregiver, caught off guard by the chill,

Charlie about some

the file and stood

was still in the same position,

with a smile as Seth

her rigid posture, Seth

Danielle nodded.

her, but Danielle

ask someone

glanced at the maid from the Ellis family.

lip, concerned. “Just be careful about

halt. He straightened up and

at her. “How did you

said,

darkened a bit, but he

the bed.

“How bad is it?”

“It’s nothing.”

aloof manner left Danielle at a loss for

that night, but she called the caregiver

overhearing, asked, “What

glad you’re okay. She insisted I be

come by tomorrow.”

*

next day just past

room.

much brighter than the day before—refreshed

brimming with vitality.

hospital, not that there needed to be a reason.

place like that.

some good rest yesterday,” Seth remarked

placed a food container

It’s

forward, raised the bed table, and

the containe, which was

light yet hearty.

eyed the lunch before him, his mood cooling despite the

before him today.

wrong? Not to your taste?” Cicely

at her. “Why is there only one

“Isn’t it enough? I prepared it according

definitely

not eating with

that he

eaten at home.”

and he

won’t

aback. “Are

turned his face

own business, as is

think I care?”

Still, Seth remained quiet.

him for a long while, understanding that this man was not

to budge.

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

the plate.

“Come on, eat.”

Seth’s lips twitched ever so slightly. He turned to her.

if you’ve

the fork tightened. She was

when he spoke again.

arm’s not quite

lips parted, almost spitting

she held back.

fed you yesterday,

else is

couldn’t help

expected such a straight-laced man could be

few days, Seth’s injury continued to heal without

discharged

care of him personally, but Seth refused,

it was Cicely’s duty to

didn’t argue, and neither did

told, Cicely wasn’t

days Seth was home, instead of taking care of him, she acted

like royalty.

Creighton fell ill unexpectedly.

the Ellis family estate upon hearing the

explained that ever since learning of Danielle’s

had been downcast, which now seemed

toll on his health.

found Creighton dozing in a

with a tea set beside him. To an outsider, he might look

not someone under the

was clear on his face, a shadow of unease in

warm, bright

Creighton’s brow furrowed,

“Why are

“You’re not feeling well.”

him, pouring

couldn’t deny it, given that she

a

couldn’t imagine what else could have

so suddenly.

matter of recovery. Whatever the severity,

no point dwelling on it.

Cicely’s consolation sounded detached.

her for a moment. “We’re

case,

things that aren’t your

years? No matter how much you give, what do

content knowing we did

for others to take advantage

granted. I expect a return for

be unconditionally kind to someone

been in the business world long

truths, b

life’s ups and

treating family even better.

can genuinely care for each other—others never

You shouldn’t fuss over some things

own unavoidable difficulties. As long as Seth is loyal to you,

always quarrel with him.”

armrest, her eyes halfclosed as she watched the bright,

her gaze as distant as her

I’m always

to ease up.

The more you like someone, the

to be frowned upon. As long as

happy, that’s what counts.”

sure about him. My trust in him

Dad. Don’t

watched her for a while, then nodded

Cicely understood Creighton’s concerns.

after all, their

Cicely was no fool, and

lodged in

sprout.

wounds healed, and life returned to its

with her job and went back to school,

diligently.

weekends, the two would leave together in the morning,

a fifty percent chance that Seth would join her

go home together. But

disappeared.

the year drew to a close, every

Seth? He was probably drowning

last weekend before the winter holidays, Cicely

at the

usual, everyone with a

they tackled the tasks at

had simply bitten off more work than

was rumored to

two

up in the conference

hushed tones of the secretaries,

tense.

the office,

A man strode

the figure on the sofa, a brief moment

collected himself, “Ms.

her brow, Cicely watched him, her eyes dancing with curiosity

up with a hand and offered a faint smile, “I don’t

we’ve met before.”

could waltz

only his right-hand man Charlie

And judging by how familiar this man seemed with the layout

desk…

odd that she had no recollection

Mr. Diaz’s

so slightly, “He

the documents he came for, replied with

most trusted aide. Mr. Diaz has him on

looking after someone, which is why I had

step in. My apologies, Ms. Cicely. Mr. Diaz is waiting

the trinket on Seth’s desk. It was from her –

narrowed eyes, posed with its paw

inside, accompanied by a digital

a stark contrast to the office’s

remained silent, and Shane exited

before the office door swung

crisp suit and an

so slightly at the sight of

a sheaf of papers on his desk,

Enter title…

been

closed her gaming app and shook her head, “Doesn’t feel

long.”

wooden lunchbox on

to have lunch with you today, so I’ve

to you, I’m treated

hummed in agreement,

she would occasionally pause to

only to look

repeated several

after finishing lunch

we have

a slight

filled with a playful dissatisfaction—it was

more of a

there’s always dessert. Have you been too busy to

complacent, thinking it’s no big deal to skimp on

to have a word with

to order

I can have someone go out and get

need,” Cicely said lightly, with a carefree smile on her lips.

the same when you try

later.”

words were light and nonchalant, but Seth wasn’t dense; there

chose

to clear away the lunchbox

back into his chair, he said, “I’ll be

home, go shopping, or visit

driver.”

coat rack to retrieve her

Charlie’s driving. If he’s

up, she looked back at Seth, awaiting

her, noting her bundled figure and the faint smile on

His expression was indifferent as

her demeanor

I rang Issac earlier.

impassive face darkened

the lunchbox home with you. I’m going

by, so I’ll leave you to your

at the door, turning the knob. By the

she had vanished

closed door, his expression as gloomy as the

outside.

waiting by the entrance.

the car door

keys. I’ll drive

hesitated, “You don’t

and I know the rules of the road. If I

you’ll handle it.”

forecast said it might snow this

drive in the

all about your

but I’m driving.

pick up a

didn’t doubt Cicely’s sincerity. Rather than