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

nails dug into the pillar, her eyes

Patty ever agree to their marriage?

Danielle watched the car disappear through the

staring blankly out the door, lost

*

Ellis family announced

July 28th. Despite the preparations,

a stir in

Patty paid a visit

holiday with the Ellis family, descended the

there, looking as somber as ever, sitting

Danielle.

any trace of a smile on

always had that resting bitch face, so Cicely

attention.

time no

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

holiday gifts. So many for New

next to Creighton, “It’s the

you’ve become quite the

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

find a place to buy it. I

nearly given up hope, and

it. I absolutely adore it, and Seth

it. Very

fixing on the gleaming

value. She had no idea Patty wanted it, let

it or sent it to her. So Seth got it and passed it

with her

really deserves most of

returned as she shifted her focus

be united took me by surprise. Me

you and Millie’s daughter. Your friend and my friend.

charming, doesn’t it?”

unmistakable. She said it sounded

suggested it was more of a joke.

her words.

expression darkened slightly, “It’s all

always a joyous occasion.”

tea, concealing

As if recalling something, Patty set down her cup,

in the entertainment industry.

look out for her. Don’t worry about Danielle.

step back from company matters. Seth might be

hope

wider and colder. Patty was implying that

taking care of Danielle, it

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

keep out of it and not

a frosty politeness, “With Danielle’s

any issue arise, the Ellis

am the one marrying Seth, not

and Seth has no obligation to cater

it’s the Ellis family’s duty

someone else’s.”

smile faded ever so slightly,

the Diaz family, isn’t she just that? I know you and her mother

just mentioned, my mother is your best friend as

me like

looked at Cicely’s carefree, beautiful face, her anger turning into

seen you

perhaps I’ve been ungrateful, feeling like an

and I trust you’ll treat us

with Seth and the

home is the foundation of

someone like Danielle create chaos at

Seth distress and impacting his work—that would

trouble.”

gaze on Cicely grew icy. “The Ellis family will lean on Seth in

family or him

There will

needs to look

curled into a cold smirk,

been silent throughout.

indeed need special attention. It seems Seth

suitable match to marry off.

complexion turned even paler. Seth finding her

more torturous than

to twist

own, and it doesn’t need managing by anyone

commendable, but can you

denies you’re an

facing trouble, seek

clenched tightly, her face a

when I finally marry into the Diaz

with me over scraps, just because

then you’d be the one putting Patty in a tight spot, not

you should be grateful for that, not

welcome.”

the focal point

the entire Diaz family.

so while what Cicely said wasn’t exactly polite, today was the

if it meant taking a hit to

can’t figure out what difficult matter

and the Ellis family can’t solve it, but someone like Patty,

of worldly matters, can take

Even Patty herself, who was standing

with new scrutiny after Cicely’s

for Cicely. Every

like the absolute truth. Every time,

her thoughts laid

with Danielle’s silenced, frustrated

knowing smile. “If you decided on your own two

spine.”

think you’re so perfect? What have you got

right do you have to judge whether I have a backbone

not?”

made everyone in the living

raised an eyebrow, leisurely took a sip of

the Ellis family, and I have

to offer him everything that the Ellis family has to offer. Does that

you?”

her face turning even

left her

palpable to

glass once more, her eyes warmly

was right

unable to counter Cicely’s words. Young as she

sharp tongue. Even Patty’s

and she was left speechless by Cicely’s

remarks.

Danielle to be a nuisance. If

sincere, then Danielle was indeed a

topic was dropped, and throughout the meal, Danielle kept

up her contract once more. But

with Cicely, the matter of her contract

her lip, her heart seething

left with Patty. The silence during

her. “Think about it, if Cicely

reason, that’s her skill. You two are both from

same line, but Seth chose her in the end.

used some tricks, but to get

to

need to be so down. Even if Seth marries

family’s influence. Men always have

reasoning, and at first, Patty was shocked. She had

But so what?

followed by a harsh abandonment, wouldn’t

the rest of her life

daughter seduced her son.

whoever got punished, it would

Patty, a delicious revenge.

Why could Millie have

couldn’t have was Millie’s. The love she settled

loved, turned out to be a lie centered

Millie.

shouldn’t be Millie’s was all

a tragedy, and what

joke because of Millie. And

charmed life that others

It was utterly detestable.

it seemed like karma

Seth doesn’t love Cicely? If

is all of this true? Can

the Ellis family. I’ll

instead of going to all

the reins of the Ellis

choose you

paused, realizing it was a reasonable explanation. But

was out of the picture and Cicely wasn’t with Seth,

power

getting married with Cicely?

anxiety growing. The more she

hopeless the

a response

on her heart. Because Danielle’s

the big award ceremonies began

of Elegance” swept up the major

for Best Supporting Actress, and as a guest

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

For celebrities like

galas; it was also

for the new year.

and she had

directors at

poured in, including some

role

her focus for the

a fair share of events to

Enter title…

that they moved in the same circles,

normal.

was the justifiable excuse Cicely had found for Seth in

hospital hallway, propped up against

at the hospital, Charlie was

Charlie’s

injuries weren’t too severe.

to get there, instantly relaxed

against the

given way due to weakness, to

strength.

had been in a car accident, and Cicely couldn’t recall

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

how her heart had raced, as if it

is okay, just a mild

few scrapes

Danielle, she’s still in

her gaze flitting

face as

see him,” she said.

stiffened for a moment, “Mr. Diaz is

blinked and nodded, her

room?”

Diaz asked me to

Cicely chuckled, “Charlie, there’s no

is my cousin, after all. I should check on her, whether

there because of Seth.”

realized she had a

him to stay with Ms.

reasons.

just turned to

was determined to find out, there were

ways to do so.

Cicely. I’ll take you

out from the reception

on her bad side

room, they saw Seth’s

hospital gown, he

his face and neck had patches of

did too,

in front of

drew closer, she

clear sign of his

glanced briefly at Charlie, who immediately lowered

head.

stand beside him, facing

has it been?”

her overly calm face, his brow creasing

up at the digital display above the operating

minutes.”

her lip, seventy-six minutes. So

see,” she replied lightly, “Is

on her, seemingly

asked, “Anything else you want to

a doctor, and neither am

us really knows how severe it

Or maybe I

voice soft

happened at all. She

of sisterly concern while Danielle was undergoing

too

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

it was two people who had

accident that night.

if remembering something, “How did

in the

closed his eyes

slightly, “It

“I see,” and turned back to the

deep voice

him, a

going to ask how

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

further with a smile, “Charlie told me

serious, and

at the digital clock overhead,

and seem fine.

If you want me to ask, I

beat. This was it. Mr. Diaz had fallen into his own

standing outside Ms. Danielle’s

would seem like an act of profound concern and

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

raised an eyebrow and, after standing for a moment, sat down on

nearby chair.

call and left, apparently regarding

change at the operating room

not going back to

to see you tomorrow.”

didn’t warrant keeping vigil

operating room.

past 1

alarmed her father or grandfather with

to spook them in the dead of

been concerned for Patty, hence

called later, and Danielle’s assistant

no one else.

what else could you expect? It

and energy was a scarce

distinct in the

what to say

look at Cicely, his eyes

offered, “How about I go back to

was silent for a beat, “You can head

expression turned a shade

nodded, “Alright, I’ll leave then and

“Mm.”

syllable response, Cicely turned and walked away,

Seth watched

sight.

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

no need for us all to be here. You’re hurt too. Why don’t

and let you

hung unanswered in the

Cicely saw Charlie still

worn out himself.

“Ms. Cicely.”

was surprised, “You’re heading

You should get

bit dazed, “And

at the OR. If you need him,

clamped his mouth

against the window, rubbing her temple.

and dad about

who was driving, simply

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

up. “I heard Danielle’s crash was

through the rearview mirror. She was reclining against

partly hidden

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

too much.”

“The way things are

kicked the bucket. If I’m worried

hurt but not quite

knew that no matter how

someone, she’d never lift a finger

me upstairs when we

“Okay.”

*

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

took a hit out.”

didn’t change much. The news wasn’t

involved now.” Which meant Seth

in. Things were likely

grunted in

hesitated, then said, “Mr. Diaz, you still

on IV. I can stay here for

temple but stopped midway, his arm stiff. Charlie

your injury. Maybe you

to rest.

“It’s okay.”

before, even less now.

betraying a hint of discomfort

his

back at the sealed OR door, thinking of Cicely he’d seen

and pursed

*

laying her on the bed

was too tired to even open her eyes as she

“Remember to

“Will do.”

her, now just a sliver of

she might’ve seemed just ordinarily

involving

remained motionless. She

*

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

saw Cicely already in the living room, she

up early

she’d never

accident last night. Make three breakfasts. I’ll eat here

me to

accident? Is

said a mild concussion,

from the glass.”

paused. That didn’t sound ‘not serious’ at all. “Didn’t

last night?”

Cicely remained silent.

the maid hurriedly excused

prepare breakfast.

ablaze with news of the accident. It seemed

grandpa and dad; they were

her phone, Cicely got dressed and

waiting in the living room

the suitcase from her.

suitcase wasn’t heavy, and it even had

her hands without a word the moment she arrived. It

nature.

Cicely for you, pampered from birth, never

anything.

tow, was heading for the door when Cicely made

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

the hospital.”

down, Issac watched Cicely’s

her into the dining room

her.

maid, packing up Seth’s breakfast to go,

table with the young mistress. She hesitated, her

food box

is here.”

with a nonchalant

*

Seth’s room was empty. Issac placed

box down, his expression turning

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

call,

“Did you know

accident last night?”

“Yes, I’m aware.”

on Creighton’s end, “Where is she

a hand

who was in

phone, probably accessing the

system, “She’s in V66.”

you.” Cicely headed towards the

from Creighton,

Patty stood

an expression of pain

shifted to the man

you, and

hospital to go home

should not?” Seth’s

the night before, and his dark eyes, though

deliberate coldness, held a

“Cicely?”

outside the door, and Creighton’s familiar voice called

laced with confusion, “Why aren’t

landing on Cicely, who was standing at

looking back

His eyes narrowed slightly.d2

Enter title…

turned back around, her face was

umpteenth time, Seth found himself detesting her

No life-threatening danger, she just has to suffer a

reassured, taking Erik’s arm.

group approached the hospital room. Patty shifted awkwardly

Cicely with a look that was

when Cicely had taken up

might have overheard.

never left Cicely. Danielle’s

had

be alright?” Erik’s concern was

middle fingers are fractured, both legs

and there’s a broken rib in the chest.

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

months.”

“Gosh! That serious.”

indeed severe,

Danielle from time to time, but in the end, she was

a time like this, he

the smile on her face

was enough to

been. Any slight mistake, and Danielle might have

real.

on Danielle’s unconscious face,

across her otherwise

Impressive, indeed.

voice suddenly

normal activities,

moves, and as for playing

sorry…”

vague and tactful. There were

of comminuted fractures. Saying that she couldn’t perform highdifficulty dance movements had been just a

confidence could a dancer

execute even “complex” moves?

mean? That won’t do!”

studying dance and piano since she was

spring she was scheduled to take her

simply giving Seth

His brow furrowed distinctly.

in the room

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

wash over her.

the late night, or perhaps because she had woken

Seth, “I brought breakfast for

to head back now?”

Seth rose to his feet and moved

Creighton,

many of us to hover around; it might even disturb

rest. Should we disperse?”

Her logic was sound.

the hospital room, leaving only

watch over Danielle.

seeing the elders off, Cicely

the food box and placed it

and pulled out

began eating with a spoon,

to belong exclusively to

buzz about Seth had vanished from the charts, but there was

binding him

I witnessed the accident. The car that caused

for Mr. Diaz’s car, but

Diaz. Then it seemed Mr. Diaz realized and

taking the hit. Her brand new

they both risking their lives to protect each other? Is

called love?]

that the two of them came out from the same club, each

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

sync, or is there something

were together from the

the feed and launched a

going to ask me anything?” Seth’s

her gaming.

up, Cicely responded, “Ask

between you and Danielle?”

Seth’s frown deepened, “No.”

Her tone was indifferent, her attitude

ease. But why

been together long. If I had

sooner

and then use

leave me.”

wanted to leave, would the reason matter?” Seth

slowly lifted her head,

considered

spoonful of

just addressing

eyebrow, nodding with a slight smile,

you if you and Danielle occasionally cross

you and her ended up in the same place at

accident on the same road, if

and her,

have to ease my worries.

look forward to them becoming

dark

I’d drop

making her way over

like a

methodically packed a few containers into a lunchbox, stealing a glance

“You look like you haven’t slept a wink all night.

be resting? Charlie called and said you haven’t even started

supposed to

going to explain what you

a nearby cabinet,

worry about? The ball’s always been

the dining area and stand by his bedside, “Lie

nurse to come set up

the topic with a nonchalance that implied

and Seth didn’t press it, changing the subject

“What about you?”

as your wife, didn’t keep vigil by

it safe, sticking around definitely

Seth spoke, he settled back onto the

simply keeping watch in the hospital

administered the IV. He hadn’t slept all night, and Cicely

him. The hospital room gradually quieted down, with

them breathing

set her phone aside, lifted her gaze to check

finally let her eyes rest

her gaze

of IV fluids, Seth

the house staff, ordering lunch for two, asking

nurse to keep

downstairs to grab lunch

ten minutes, she returned, carrying

bed empty.

lunchbox on the cabinet, her eyes

edge of it, smiling slightly in

and the nurse on the side had to speak

up, the

Probably?

was more

*

his head, and even

could see it clearly.

voice was weak and hoarse, “Seth, are

nonchalant look, Seth replied, “Clearly not

softened with relief,

“That’s good.”

and grandfather have come to see you. They’re truly worried.

need to do now is rest up and follow the doctor’s

her voice and demeanor

injured?

Seth’s brow furrowed slightly.

you should

months.”

filled Danielle’s eyes as she shook

forming in

to start filming, and this role is

critical it is, you’re in no

negotiation.”

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

formed a thin line, his gaze cool as he

moment of silence, he added, “Focus on getting better, and I’ll

another role for you.”

at

misheard.

“Seth…”

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

tears

care

expression remained indifferent as he turned

by the

“You should have lunch.”

the overly cautious servant

afraid of causing any

his arms for the servant

then gently

fiercely. This was the

the two since they had known each other for so

appetite. Although the lunch brought by the

still frowned slightly when it was opened.

and refuse, she lifted her eyes to see

yet dangerously stern

*

Seth returned

nurse he saw upon waking

on

home-cooked, and she asked

She doesn’t like the hospital’s

some

lunchbox to find the food had

good portion missing.

“The lady had some of it

glanced at the fork before sitting on

room, the lunch

long ago remained untouched.

as she tidied up the

exposed arm appeared freshly

“What happened?” Cicely inquired.

stated, slipping

advise, “You must be careful now. Make sure to protect your arms and

any kind of strain.”

Seth, frowning with the

the nurse, she discreetly

fell on the man adjusting his sleeve, a

with Danielle and end up like

properly, “She’s

eyebrow. So

him to lay hands on

was she incapacitated and now he felt

with a huff, propping her

go

you’ve

see you hurt, and what’s more, I

you back to health. I want

be discharged, not languishing here, getting worse with

seem to show much change in response

of sorrow and concern. After leisurely chewing the food,

in the hospital, I can arrange for my discharge

any time.”

narrowed her eyes at Seth for a moment before letting out a

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

say about how I usually treat you—like some kind

doing great,”

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

if I’m not

that the nurse, busy

a hasty retreat from the

job. So, since you don’t like staying in the

having you take care of me. What gave

impression I’m dissatisfied?”

pancake,

than the

Enter title…

his gaze for a moment longer.

be

be pointing fingers.

finally furrowed his brow, putting down his fork and looking

do you mean

lips.

nonchalance, but he knew pressing

like getting blood

outside. You don’t look like you’ll

he’s probably brought a ton of work

the door to let Charlie in, then placed a glass

Seth’s side. “I’ll

in with a laptop and a stack of papers, quickly clearing

in

out of the room, Cicely shook off the chilly gaze that had clung to her

a second skin.

also sensed the underlying tension between the two under the

had no clue. He could only systematically report

company to

door for a

had finished her lunch not long before, was propped up

coldly

“What do you want?”

checking if you’ve kicked the

Cicely’s acerbic wit, Danielle simply smirked.

disappoint.”

and lifted the blanket

discontent and anger with her

“What are you doing?”

eyes narrowed slightly at the sight

withdrew her hand, her gaze flicking over the bandages on

hands.

“Indeed, very disappointing.”

cold laugh but

burden.

your condition.”

“What

Cicely’s head as

figure, a sudden epiphany.

lips, she

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

had a fight.”

paused, her expression

his arm, he still held

of joy passed over her face, betraying her emotions until the

Cicely snapped her back to

didn’t miss the fleeting

to

not to linger in the hospital, Cicely

with Seth, their sparse conversation

departure, the door stirred. Charlie, ready

he saw the

woman stood at the door. “Good day, sir. I’m your

let me know if you

sneaked a glance at Seth,

icy.

caregiver, caught off guard by the chill, looked

comment, asked Charlie

file and

position,

a smile as Seth

posture, Seth approached. “Been sitting

Danielle nodded.

her, but

can ask

maid from the Ellis family. “And who would

“Just be

came to a halt. He straightened up and

her. “How did you

still said, “Cicely

he still carefully helped

the bed.

“How bad is it?”

“It’s nothing.”

aloof manner left Danielle at

night, but she called

asked, “What did she

She insisted I be

come by tomorrow.”

*

just past

room.

much brighter than

brimming with vitality.

the hospital, not that there needed to be a reason. No one

place like that.

good rest yesterday,” Seth remarked

bad.” She placed a food container in front of him.

soup. It’s really

bed table,

the containe, which was

light yet hearty.

his mood cooling despite

before him today.

wrong? Not to your taste?” Cicely

her. “Why is there

seemed surprised. “Isn’t it enough? I prepared it according

It’s definitely not

you’re not

then it dawned on her that he was being petulant. “Well,

eaten at home.”

darkened, and he

won’t

taken aback.

his face away,

as

think I care?”

Still, Seth remained quiet.

long while, understanding that this man was

to budge.

sat down, and picked up

the plate.

“Come on, eat.”

Seth’s lips twitched ever so

if you’ve

the fork tightened. She was about to

when he spoke again.

my arm’s not

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

she held back.

you yesterday,

else is

help

such a straight-laced man could be

few days, Seth’s injury

he was discharged to recuperate

him

Patty and Cicely that it

and

be told, Cicely

was home, instead of taking care

like royalty.

Creighton fell ill unexpectedly.

back to the Ellis family estate upon hearing the

ever since learning

downcast, which now seemed to be

toll on his health.

found Creighton dozing in a garden chair,

To an outsider, he might

someone under the weather,

was clear on his face, a shadow of unease

that the warm,

softly. Creighton’s brow furrowed, then his

“Why are you

“You’re not feeling well.”

took a seat opposite him, pouring herself

deny it, given that she had come back so

deeply. “Such a serious

Cicely couldn’t imagine what else could have affected his

so suddenly.

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

dwelling on it.

Cicely’s consolation sounded detached.

at her for a moment. “We’re all selfish, myself

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

aren’t your concern. Haven’t you

you give,

should be content knowing we did our best. To me,

invitation for others to take advantage of you. If you’re content, the

just takes your efforts for granted. I expect a return

be unconditionally kind to

had been in the business world

truths, b

experienced life’s ups and downs,

treating family even better.

can genuinely care for each other—others

me. You shouldn’t fuss over

As long as

always quarrel with him.”

her eyes halfclosed as she watched the bright, multicolored chrysanthemums

gaze as distant as her

like I’m always picking

sighed softly. “I’m asking you to ease up.

you like someone, the more you care. Anyway, he

to be

happy, that’s what counts.”

him.

yours, Dad. Don’t worry; I’ll be

her for a

Cicely understood Creighton’s concerns.

and daughter, after all, their

Cicely was no fool,

Danielle’s accident, a thorn had lodged in their

sprout.

life returned to

with her job and went back to school,

diligently.

the two would leave together in

percent chance

would go home together. But now, even that slim

disappeared.

a close, every

Seth? He was probably

the last weekend before the winter holidays, Cicely had made plans to

lunch at the

usual, everyone with a grave

tasks at hand. It seemed either

bitten

was

two straight

in the conference room with Seth,

to the hushed tones of the

tense.

the office, but before she could even get

burst open. A man strode

halted upon noticing the figure on the sofa, a brief

collected himself, “Ms.

lift of her brow, Cicely watched him, her

up with a hand and offered a faint smile,

we’ve met before.”

many who could waltz into

only his right-hand man Charlie had

judging by how familiar this man seemed with the

desk…

she had

Mr.

ever so slightly, “He let Charlie

the documents he came for, replied

most trusted aide. Mr. Diaz

looking after someone, which is why I had

apologies, Ms. Cicely. Mr. Diaz is waiting

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

posed with its paw

her picture inside, accompanied

was a stark contrast to the

silent, and Shane exited

ten minutes passed before the office door swung

crisp suit and an aura of icy detachment. His

slightly at

of papers on his desk, he turned and

Enter title…

you been

her gaming app and shook

long.”

carved wooden lunchbox on the coffee table,

to have lunch with you today, so I’ve brought us

to you, I’m

in agreement, picking up

would occasionally pause

resume eating, only to look

sequence repeated

after finishing lunch did Cicely

we have

was a slight pause from

filled with a playful dissatisfaction—it was less

of a faux

there’s always dessert. Have you been too busy

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

to

in today. I forgot to order it,” Seth replied

I can have someone go out and get it

carefree smile

it doesn’t taste the same when you try to make up for

later.”

light and nonchalant, but

chose not to

his secretary to clear

chair, he said, “I’ll be tied up with work for a

head home, go shopping, or visit Emiliana on

driver.”

stood, walking to the coat rack to retrieve

driving. If he’s not available, I’d

looked back at

her bundled

was indifferent as he reiterated, “He’s

nodded, her demeanor

alright. I rang Issac earlier.

face

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

and won’t be passing by, so I’ll

she spoke, Cicely was already at the door, turning the knob. By the

had vanished

stared at the closed door, his expression as gloomy as

outside.

Issac was already waiting by the entrance. Upon seeing

he promptly opened the car door

the keys. I’ll drive

hesitated, “You don’t

drive, and I know the rules of

you’ll handle it.”

“The forecast said it might snow this

in the snow. Why can’t

it’s all about

but I’m driving. If you don’t hand

pick up a

sincerity. Rather than let her