The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

Chapter 2031-2040

So, what do you want to do then?”

Seth’s nonchalant retort caught Danielle off guard. She opened her mouth to

speak, but no words came out.

Nearby, the janitorial staff worked at lightning speed to make the unsightly

hospital room spotless again.

Charlie returned with a fresh lunch from a nearby deli.

Seth stood by the bedside, watching Charlie set the meal in front of Danielle.

“Eat up.”d2

Danielle bit her lip, her eyes reddening, but she didn’t move.

Enter title…

Seth looked at her sternly. “I’m not a patient man. Either you stop eating forever,

or I’ll have the doctor amputate your legs and fit you with prosthetics so you can

use the restroom on your own.”

Danielle seemed frightened, her eyes trembling, but eventually, she picked up

the fork.

Charlie let out a sigh of relief when Danielle took a bite.

“Have you eaten?”

After a few bites, Danielle calmed down and seemed to realize her earlier

tantrum was uncalled for. She looked up at Seth with a softer voice.

Seth gave her a brief glance. “Eat your food. Don’t worry about me.”

Danielle didn’t dare to press him further.

*

Cicely changed into a new outfit and headed out, while Issac, thinking she was

off to enjoy herself, opened the car door for her. But Cicely didn’t move.

“I’ll grab a cab later. You should head to the hospital and check on Danielle.”

Issac stared at her silently.

“That woman is too proud to ask for help from the Ellis family. And now with her

injuries, we have to make sure we’re above reproach. If she needs anything,

make sure she gets it.”

Issac was moved. “I’ll send someone.”

“Just you,” Cicely insisted, already hailing a cab on her phone. As she did, a

message popped up from Emiliana.

Emiliana: [Santino has an interview tonight, and he’ll drop off the car over. He

wants to add you as a contact. Should I give him your info?]

Cicely: [I’ll add him.]

Emiliana promptly sent over Santino’s contact, and Cicely sent a friend request.

I

ssac was still there when she looked up.

“Why haven’t you left?”

“I was going to arrange a new driver for you.”

“No need. I don’t want to wait, and the taxi is almost here.”

Issac finally compromised but insisted on taking a picture of the taxi and its

driver’s ID before letting Cicely leave.

Shortly after getting in the cab, Cicely’s phone notified her that Santino had

accepted her friend request.

Santino: [Ms. Cicely, I’m on my way. Where should I drop off the car?]

Cicely: [Have you had lunch yet?]

Santino: [Not yet.]

Cicely found a compromise. She chose a bistro, and soon after she arrived,

Santino did too.

Unlike other celebrities who prioritized style over comfort, Santino’s down jacket

and scarf gave him a more down-to-earth vibe. That is, until he removed the

mask and sunglasses hiding his well-known face.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

Cicely waved it off. “I haven’t been here long. I heard you have an evening gig. I

hope you’re not pressed for time.”

Santino hung his jacket and settled in. “That’s for later tonight.”

Cicely smiled as the dishes began to arrive.

“Thanks for bringing my car back.”

“Just on the way. No need for formalities, Ms. Cicely. Makes conversation

difficult.”

Cicely raised an eyebrow. “Fine by me.”

“Are you out on your own again today?”

The question felt ironic to Cicely.

“Is that strange?”

Santino shook his head. “Most students and people with partners spend

weekends with friends or glued to their significant others. Being out alone at

your age seems a bit lonely too soon.”

Lonely.

Cicely paused. The word felt foreign to her.

She had never considered it a description for herself.

Now that it was mentioned, she couldn’t deny its accuracy.

“I have no friends, and my boyfriend is too busy. Clinging to him now would be

annoying.”

Santino’s gentle gaze lingered on Cicely for a moment.

“Ms. Cicely, so considerate and understanding. Far from the rumors.”

“Considerate and understanding?”

“You’d rather drink alone to oblivion than trouble your boyfriend with your woes.

On the weekend, you think not to bother him and even justify why you can’t. Ms.

Cicely, you’re the ideal girlfriend, perhaps even a perfect wife in the future. But

every man is busy. If it matters, they find a way to make up the time spent with

you through more efficient work.

“If it’s not you clinging, it could be someone else. The squeaky wheel gets the

grease. Your understanding nature makes you a taken-for-granted backdrop.

Better to leave a scar on him than to pass without a trace. The more it hurts, the

more you’ve won.”

Cicely’s gaze turned distant.

Better to leave a scar on him than to pass without a trace.

The more it hurts, the more she wins.

Savoring Santino’s words, Cicely smiled.

“You’ve let acting delay your career as a relationship expert.”

Santino chuckled. “Playing many roles gives one such insights.”

Cicely remained noncommittal.

After all, actors portray life in all its facets.

“Where to next? I’m bored and you’re alone, maybe we can entertain each other

for a while.”

Santino reached for a napkin, dabbing his mouth as he spoke.

Cicely took a sip of water. “I’m not bored.”

Santino laughed softly. “Actually, I’m not familiar with P City. I had to use

navigation to bring your car. Ms. Cicely, I think lunch doesn’t suffice for your

gratitude.”

Cicely fell silent.

Did every gentleman on the outside have a wild streak on the inside?

Standing up, she grabbed her coat from the rack. “Perfect, you can drive then.”

Santino seemed quite pleased with the idea.

When they arrived at the bridal boutique, the attendant gave an extra glance

upon seeing another man with Cicely, and quickly brought out the framed

wedding photos.

“Please take a look. If there’s no issue, we’ll wrap them up for you.”

There were two photos.

One was a solo shot of Cicely.

The other captured her standing next to Seth. In the picture, Seth was slightly

turned, his arm wrapped around her waist, chin tucked in, looking down at her.

The hint of a smile on the visible half of his face could pass as genuine.

Even if they were to pose for a typical wedding shoot, no photographer would

suggest such a clichéd stance.

But the candid shot felt more meaningful than any posed wedding photos they

might take in the future.

Their intimacy in the photo, that almost-smile, was heart-stirringly real because

of its authenticity.

“Great, wrap it up for me.”

The staff directed them to a lounge area with freshly brewed coffee.

Santino was somewhat surprised Cicely had brought him to this kind of place.

Actually, he was completely taken aback.

“Just two wedding photos?”

Cicely sipped her coffee and smiled. “Just a couple of keepsakes from the dress

fitting.”

Santino nodded in understanding.

The lounge had other patrons, and as soon as Santino removed his mask and

sunglasses, he was recognized.

It was a bride-to-be, still in her wedding gown, and a fan of Santino.

Covering her mouth excitedly, she asked, “What brings you here, Mr. Santino?”

Santino, a bit sheepish, replied, “Just helping a friend pick up some things.

Congratulations, you look stunning.”

Tears of joy welled up in the fan’s eyes as she stammered, “I never dreamed I’d

meet you one day. I’m so happy. Mr. Santino, could I possibly get a photo with

you?”

Santino, smiling at her white dress, said gently, “Your fiancé might get jealous.”

“Not at all. He votes for you every day with me. Look, even the engagement ring

he proposed with is the same brand you endorse.”

She lifted her hand, showing off the platinum diamond ring.

Meeting a superfan on her big day, Santino couldn’t help but agree to take a

photo with her.

The fan, overjoyed, glanced at Cicely sitting beside, her eyes crinkling with a

smile, then turned back to Santino, “Mr. Santino, most of your fans just want you

to be happy. No matter who you end up choosing, we support you. Wishing you

all the best.”

“Thank you,” Santino said, shooting Cicely an amused look as their eyes met.

They both chuckled at the apparent misunderstanding.

The staff brought the wrapped frames over. They might be a bit heavy, so

Santino took them casually.

As they prepared to leave, the fan called out, “Mr. Santino, may I share our

picture on social media?”

“If that’s what you’d like, go ahead.”

“Thank you.”

Exiting the bridal shop, Santino placed the framed photos in the trunk of the car.

“Any plans now?” he asked.

Cicely was engrossed in her phone, reading a message from Issac half an hour

ago.

Danielle had thrown a tantrum over her daily care, causing chaos in her room

and rejecting her lunch.

Seth had stepped in to calm her and stayed until she ate.

Issac had spent extra to hire two more robust nurses to assist Danielle with her

needs, including trips to the bathroom.

The kicker was that Issac had dismissed the nurse Seth hired for Danielle that

very noon.

Santino was right.

Men were busy, but they always made time for a woman.

If not for her, then for someone else.

Switching off her phone, Cicely tossed it into the car’s glove compartment.

“No other plans, and I don’t feel like going home.”

Seeing her action, Santino started the car. “I have an interview tonight. I’m

heading over to prep. If you’re really that bored, you’re welcome to hang out

there.”

Cicely slid down in her seat a bit. “Sounds good. Let’s do thatSeth had barely settled into his office when Charlie’s call came through.

Issac dismissed the caregiver Seth had arranged for Danielle and replaced

them with someone hired by the Ellis family. Every aspect of Danielle’s care,

even the unexpected ones, had been meticulously arranged.

Striding into the elevator, Seth’s tall, imposing figure came to a rest. He ended

the call and dialed Cicely’s number.

— Powered off.

His brow furrowed, and he then called the apartment.

Enter title…

Carly answered, “The missus, she left around noon and hasn’t come back

yet.”d2

“Alright,” Seth replied coolly.

Seizing the moment, Carly added, “Sir, will you and the missus be dining at

home tonight? Is there anything specific you’d like to eat? It seems you’ve both

been dining out quite often lately.”

After a brief silence, Seth said, “We’ll eat in. Prepare some of her favorites.”

“Sure thing.”

*

An up-and-coming media outlet had been gaining popularity rapidly over the

past two years.

They interviewed only the heavy hitters in show business, and they certainly

didn’t skimp on expenses.

Stepping into the interview studio was like entering a realm of luxury—the

lighting and the sound quality were top-notch.

First, there was a soundcheck, followed by a visit to the make-up room. There,

refreshments and snacks were ready, and the heating was more than sufficient.

As Santino was getting his makeup done and touched up, Cicely watched with

interest.

She was curious to see the transformation makeup could achieve on a man, but

in the end, he looked pretty much the same as usual—just with an extra layer of

foundation, a touch-up on the brows and eyes, and a setting spray.

Boring.

She had been hoping to witness a makeup miracle akin to plastic surgery.

The makeup artists probably mistook Cicely for Santino’s assistant given no one

recognized her.

But with her demeanor, she seemed even more high-profile than Santino

himself, making them all hesitant to give her any orders.

In reality, Santino’s actual assistant was busy coordinating interview questions

with the staff.

“How long will your interview take?” Cicely asked.

Santino glanced up, catching her reflection in the mirror. “Around an hour or so.”

Cicely raised an eyebrow, “Are they expecting you to recite your life story in

excruciating detail?”

“Not quite.”

Cicely sighed. “Sounds dull.”

“Sorry to bore you. I’ll make it up to you with dinner afterward,” Santino offered.

“It better be the best meal ever.”

The makeup artists exchanged glances—her boredom wasn’t their fault, was it?

Santino and Cicely were a pair bold in speech and even bolder in audacity.

During the interview, Cicely sat outside the camera’s view on a nearby couch.

Santino’s demeanor was relaxed, no different from his usual self. He spoke

coherently, without giving any openings for criticism—a flawless image

personified.

The host was naturally fishing for more juicy details, and Cicely had already

caught their attention.

The makeup artists had been gossiping from the start, and now the entire crew

responsible for Santino’s interview was curious about her.

From the moment she arrived until now, she seemed inseparable from Santino.

Santino’s assistant stayed close to Cicely, nervously trying to clarify at every

opportunity that they were just friends.

In the entertainment industry, the slightest spark could cause a thunderstorm.

Even if Santino and Ms. Cicely were innocent, any hint of a romance could stir

up a frenzy.

Their plans did not include a love affair for Santino.

Fortunately, the host didn’t press further and simply asked the assistant who

Cicely was after the interview.

The assistant sincerely replied that she was a friend of Santino’s.

As winter days are short and the nights are long, when the interview ended, it

was already dark outside.

At the entrance, Santino’s fans held up support signs, eagerly waiting. Upon

seeing him, they erupted into excited screams.

Santino waved back with a smile.

However, when the fans noticed the unfamiliar woman by his side, they became

anxious.

“Santino, who is she?”

“Is she your new assistant?”

The assistant and other staff quickly ushered them into the car amidst the

chaos, explaining that they were just friends.

But the term “friends” seemed too dismissive and almost incriminating at that

moment.

Some fans even started crying on the spot.

Cicely sat comfortably in Santino’s car, watching the chaotic scene outside with

detached amusement.

“What a spectacle,” she remarked.

Santino gave a wry smile. “Are you mocking me?”

“Why would it be mocking? So many people out there like you, love you. Do you

find them ridiculous?”

Santino shook his head. “Not ridiculous. But some forms of affection can be

suffocating.”

Cicely narrowed her eyes, “How so?”

“What if I announced I had a girlfriend today? How would they react?”

Cicely pondered for a moment. “The fan at the bridal shop hoped you would be

happy.”

“That’s the majority. But there are some who, if they can’t have something, they

don’t want others to have it either. They’d rather destroy it. The same people

who adore and idolize me now would be the ones trampling and vilifying me

later.”

Cicely understood; such people did exist.

“That does sound suffocating.”

Santino couldn’t tell what Cicely was thinking at that moment, or if she was even

interested in the topic at all.

He shifted his gaze back inside the car. “Give your car keys to my assistant;

they’ll be returned to you shortly.”

Cicely did as instructed.

Santino had booked a table at the newest themed restaurant in town, which

specialized in dishes featured in movies and TV shows from around the world.

Cicely was genuinely intrigued.

She had seen her fair share of films and had often been curious about the

meals portrayed in them. She had even flown to Paris on a whim just to try a

dish she had seen in a movie.

*

When Seth returned to the apartment, Carly greeted him with a warm smile, her

apron wrapped around her waist as she emerged from the kitchen.

Noticing Seth alone at the entrance, removing his shoes, her smile faltered, and

she glanced towards the door.

“Sir, you’re back.”

“Yes. Where is she?”

Carly wiped her hands on her apron. “The missus hasn’t returned yet.”

She had thought the couple would come home together.

Seth’s thin lips pressed into a tight line, his jaw clenched as he pulled out his

phone and continued to call Cicely.

Voicemail.

It had been voicemail all afternoon.

He turned and dialed Charlie’s number instead.

This morning, Cicely had a spat with him over Charlie and Shane. Since she

valued Charlie’s work ethic, Charlie was the person to ask.

“Can you find out where she is right now?”

There was a brief pause on the line. “Ms. Cicely? She should be at this new

Hollywood-themed diner.”

Charlie’s crisp answer caught Seth off guard, leaving him momentarily

speechless.

Charlie, guessing Seth’s mood, continued, “There’s something about Ms. Cicely

online. You’ll see.”

Online.

Seth opened his browser, and the news about Santino and Cicely was

overwhelming.

From the two having lunch together, to visiting a bridal shop, then

accompanying Santino during an interview and later entering a diner together.

The spark that ignited the flame was their joint appearance in front of fans after

the interview, particularly Santino and a fan’s photo in the bridal shop.

No one mentioned that the woman in the photos or videos was Cicely, but those

who knew her could recognize her without a doubt.

Seth’s eyes were cold and terrifying.

Carly shivered from where she stood.

Seth pocketed his phone and glanced at the shoes he had just taken off before

turning to walk into the living room.

“Carly, you can head home.”

Seth’s voice was calm as he accepted a glass of water and gave his

instructions.

“But there are a few dishes left to make.”

“I’ll take care of it.”

Carly didn’t dare linger. She removed her apron, grabbed her purse, and left.

After finishing his water, Seth set the glass down and walked into the kitchen.

The ingredients were ready; all that was left was the cooking. A pot of soup was

still simmering on the stove.

*

Cicely’s meal came with red wine, which Santino didn’t touch, his eyes

frequently on his watch.

“Is dining with me that excruciating?” she teased. “You’re counting the minutes.”

Santino took a sip of water, “I’m just worried that the later it gets, the more

uncomfortable it will be for you.”

Cicely blinked, “Well, I think I didn’t finish my homework.”

Santino fell silent.

Texts kept coming in for Santino; from his assistant and his agent.

He was trending.

No need to guess it was about the woman sitting across from him.

His agent was checking in about a romantic relationship, but upon hearing they

were just friends, his agent advised him not to worry about it further.

Santino didn’t make much of it.

After dinner, Santino handed her a scarf.

“Wrap this around you. You’ll need it soon. It’ll be troublesome if your face is

recognized.”

Cicely didn’t understand but took it at the mention of trouble.

Journalists and fans had gathered at the diner’s entrance.

When they stepped out, Santino shielded Cicely behind him.

The fans cried out, and the journalists bombarded them with questions.

Who was she?

Was Santino in love?

Cicely wrapped herself in the scarf, wore a mask, and bundled up tightly.

The assistant tried to explain, to no avail.

Finally, Santino stopped, protecting Cicely with his arm behind him, standing tall

and calm, his demeanor sober. For someone usually so mild-mannered, his

displeasure was clear.

\ “If I were in love, I wouldn’t hide it. It’s about respect, for my future partner, for

myself, and for our relationship. She’s just a friend, and there’s no need for you

to know who.”

The fans calmed down, regained their senses, and even helped deal with the

persistent journalists.

Santino pulled Cicely away.

*

At eight o’clock, Seth stood before the floor-to-ceiling windows in the living

room, his gaze piercing the dark night sky, fixated on the familiar car slowly

pulling up to the apartment building.

Despite the high floor, he immediately recognized the slight figure of Cicely.

Too distant to see her expression, he couldn’t tell what she said to the man who

emerged from the driver’s seat to open the car door for her.

Then she unwound the scarf from her neck and handed it to the tall, well-built

man opposite her.

After a few more words, Cicely turned and walked toward the apartment

building.

Santino watched her leave, glanced at the scarf in his hands, and wrapped it

around his neck.

Seth’s eyes narrowed instantly, his hands clenched in his pockets, his jaw

tightened as he turned away from the window.

Cicely punched in the code, opened the door, and the living room lights were the

brightest they could be, immediately revealing the dark figure sitting on the sofa

with his back to her.

She didn’t start the conversation, placing her keys on the cabinet, taking off her

coat, then bending down to change her shoes.

Then she walked into the living room. Seth had already stood up, watching her

with a detached gaze.

Cicely glanced at him and gathered her statically charged hair.

“Did you come back early today?”

“I’m usually back by this time on weekdays.”

Cicely gave a half-smile, “I see,” she said, gathering her hair and heading

toward the bedroom while tying it up.

“You can wash your hands outside too.”

From the moment she entered, aside from that initial glance, her eyes hadn’t

lingered on him for even a second.

Seth’s carefully maintained composure was being swallowed by the rising fury

within him, his voice tense and cold.

Cicely could feel it too, “I’m going to take a shower.”

Seth’s voice was eerily calm, “Dinner first.”

“I’ve already eaten. Haven’t you? You better eat quickly.”

As she spoke, her attitude was as normal as could be, and she continued

toward the bedroom.

After a few steps, she suddenly found herself pinned against the wall at the

bedroom entrance.

The force wasn’t strong, but she still winced in pain, frowning.

“What are you doing?”

Cicely inhaled sharply, her voice almost a growl with anger.

Seth held her waist with one hand, his usually serene face now dark with

brewing storms, his voice strained and hoarse, his grip tightening.

“Drinking again?”

“I did,” Cicely didn’t bother to hide it; there was no point. “Can you let me go?

I’m tired and want to rest early.”

Seth leaned in closer, his nose grazing her cheek as he bent down, burying his

face in her neck.

“I made your favorite dishes. Join me for dinner.”

Cicely felt a tingling sensation on her scalp from his touch, but his words were

like a bucket of ice-cold water, drenching her from head to toe.

She pushed him away, saying, “If you can smell the alcohol on my breath, then

you should know that when I said I’ve already eaten, I wasn’t just making

conversation. You’re not a child, nor are you incapacitated. Surely you’re not so

helpless that you need someone to sit with you to make sure you eat.”

Seth had never been treated like this before.

The tension in the air snapped like a taut string breaking.

In a swift motion, he grabbed her arm, pulled her into the bedroom, and flung

her onto the bed.

As Cicely was still reeling, he leaned over her, pinning her struggling shoulders

to the mattress.

The cold fury on his face was now bare, stripped of any pretense or restraint.

“When are you going to stop this charade with me, huh?” he demanded, his

breath a chilling mix of anger and frost.

“Ever since the car accident and my stay at the hospital, you’ve been distant

and indifferent. What exactly are you trying to tell me?Seth raged at her, but she just chuckled coldly in response, unfazed by his fury.

“Does that bother you, Seth? Have you ever thought about the kind of attitude

you’re expecting from me?

You want me to act as if nothing’s happened? I’ve been doing just that for a long

time, but it seems like it hasn’t worked.”

Her lips twisted into a defiant smirk.

“Or do you want a full-blown showdown? What for? To make you neglect

Danielle? To forbid you from making up for your neglect towards her, turning you

into some heartless jerk?”

Enter title…

Suddenly, Seth’s eyes, filled with rage, froze.d2

She had actually considered all of this.

Tears rimmed Cicely’s eyes, yet she laughed, “A confrontation would mean

putting you in a tough spot between two women. Do you think that would be

easier for you? Fine, now that everything’s out in the open, can you honestly let

Danielle go?”

Seth’s lips pressed tightly together as he faced the woman before him, defiant

and dripping with sarcasm.

“When she’s fully recovered,” he finally said.

With a soft laugh, Cicely nodded, “Just as I expected.

And then what? What do you expect me to be like in your presence?”

Seth remained silent.

“The Ellis family has given me enough pride to last a lifetime, Seth. I’ve always

looked down on Danielle. I warned her to stay away from you because she was

a nuisance, buzzing around with her intentions clear as day. It was disgusting,

like watching a fly. I’ve always treated her that way, and she knew it. But now, I

feel like a joke. A person I’ve always despised has become my biggest threat.

I’m worried that one day this person, whom I’ve trampled underfoot, will step on

my face and laugh at my failure.

“I’ve thought about you, Seth, maybe too much. That’s why I’ve been

compromising, praying that I won’t be the one laughed at in the end. My dignity

is in your hands; what else do you want from me?”

Her voice rose as she said his name, her eyes blazing with defiance and

mockery.

Seth realized he needed to control himself, like right now.

Whether Cicely liked him was always clear.

He knew her attitude was based on her feelings for him, s

o why did he lose control tonight?

He embraced her, his voice now restrained and hoarse, his breath warm against

her face.

“I haven’t been good enough, and you have the right to be angry, to lash out at

me. But don’t reach out to other men, Cicely. I don’t like that.”

“Other men? Oh, I hadn’t realized I am still so attractive. Just a second

encounter and I’ve already stolen a heart. You don’t like it, so I can’t do it. Is that

it? It seems you’re well aware of how much I like you, that’s why you can say

such things so easily.

“If you’re aware, then there’s no need to bring it up again. I like you, so I won’t

give other men a chance. My feelings aren’t so cheap, not until I truly believe

they’re worthless.”

Her expression briefly turned chillingly cold and dismissive before she pushed

him away and left for the bathroom without a word.

“Go eat if you haven’t. I’m not in the mood for dinner with you.”

*

After a shower, Seth was still in the bedroom, now in his pajamas, with damp

hair, clearly post-shower as well.

Cicely blow-dried her hair tonight. Mainly because she had been staying with

Seth recently, and this habit of not blow-drying her hair had been gradually

changed by Seth.

She didn’t want to deal with his commands or his somber face because of wet

hair, and tonight, she didn’t want him drying it for her either.

Seth’s gaze habitually swept her hair before watching her slide under the covers

with a calm expression.

“I’ll call Charlie back tomorrow, but I’ll follow up on Danielle’s condition until

she’s healed. I promised her a new show, and that’s it. No other promises,

nothing else between us. Your worries won’t happen,” he said, standing by the

window.

Cicely, her hair now loose, lay down. She spoke, waiting for his response.

“You’re making a commitment tonight. You’ll take care of her until she’s better,

you’ll secure her a career-making show, and then no more ties with her, right?”

“Right.”

“Good. I trust you.”

What other choice did she have?

Her response was neutral, but she gave the reaction he needed.

He wasn’t satisfied, but couldn’t pinpoint what more he wanted.

He moved to the bed, unwilling to accept her turning her back to him.

Perhaps knowing what Seth might do next, Cicely spoke first.

“Have you ever thought about the day I might leave you?”

Seth paused, then pulled her into his arms.

Cicely faced his chest, eyes wide open, waiting for his response.

“No, I haven’t thought about it. You won’t,” he said with conviction, as if he knew

her through and through.

Cicely’s eyes flickered, then closed, “I can’t imagine it either.”

The bedroom light went off, and the woman in his arms’ breathing evened out.

Seth, eyes narrowed in the dark, gazed at the wardrobe’s reflected patterns, his

arms still tight around her.

Would she leave him?

How could she?

If he didn’t want to let go, how could she possibly leave his side?

But the moment the question arose, a flurry of panic surged in his heart, as if the

mere speculation of such a day could tear a gaping hole in his chest, with no

way to mend or fill it.

*

True to his word, Charlie came back, and first thing the next morning, he made a

point to check in at the apartment in person.

It was Monday, and Cicely had school. She hadn’t slept late the previous night

and had woken up early.

Seth took it upon himself to make breakfast that morning, and Cicely answered

the door for Charlie.

Their meeting was marked by a smile that was almost too eager to please. “Ms.

Cicely, I’m here to take you to school.”

He was the one who usually waited in the car downstairs. Today, he made the

extra effort to come up, his intentions as clear as day.

Cicely couldn’t be bothered to call him out on it. She tossed him the car keys.

“There are two picture frames in the trunk. Bring them up for me.”

Charlie caught the keys deftly and immediately went downstairs.

Soon after, he was lugging two frames—one large, one small—into the living

room.

Cicely tore off the packaging, revealing two brand-new, well-designed frames.

The larger one held a photo of the two of them together, and the smaller one

was a solo shot of Cicely.

Charlie, by her side, saw the images too. When Cicely glanced his way, he gave

an awkward laugh. “Ms. Cicely, you look stunning.”

Cicely flashed a wry smile. “Go find some tools in the storage room and help me

hang them up.”

“Sure thing.”

As Seth emerged from the kitchen with breakfast, he heard Cicely’s voice and

found her directing Charlie on how to hang the frames by the bed. She was in a

wedding dress, and he in a suit—it was a moment captured without him

remembering when.

Her tone suggested she was in a good mood.

“A bit to the right.”

“Be careful with the wall. Don’t make it ugly.”

“And mind my picture. If you ruin it, you can make amends with your life.”

It wasn’t a particularly hard task, but Cicely’s words had Charlie sweating

bullets.

Seth approached, his gaze briefly sweeping over Charlie, his voice cool and

steady.

“It seems you’re quite at ease with Charlie around.”

Cicely’s lips curled into a small smile. “Of course, after all this time, Charlie and I

ought to have built some rapport.”

Charlie nearly leapt out the nearby window.

This was surely Ms. Cicely’s way of getting back at him.

“Time to eat.”

Seth’s chilly voice came from behind. Cicely didn’t move. “A little more to the

left. There, that’s perfect.”

Charlie exhaled in relief, only for Cicely’s voice to rise again. “There’s another

frame. Hmm, hang it in the study. What are you doing?”

“Time for breakfast.”

Seth’s face was a mask of displeasure as he pulled her away, almost forcefully.

After breakfast, Seth and Cicely left the apartment together.

He dropped her off at school before Charlie took over the driving duties to head

to the office.

The school was abuzz with the scandal involving Santino from yesterday, but

Cicely checked online only to find that, thanks to Santino’s comment outside the

restaurant the previous evening, his fans chose to stand by him, rejecting the

rumors. It was only after Santino’s studio issued an official statement denying

the affair that the matter finally settled.

A few people mentioned her, but it didn’t make a splash.

She wondered if her reputation in P City wasn’t strong enough, or if someone

had deliberately quashed the story.

Cicely didn’t dwell on it.

Once it was over, it was over.

Later, Santino sent her a message, apologizing for any trouble he might have

caused.

Cicely felt some responsibility too, but in the end, the matter was resolved, and

it was best to let it go.

However, the brief interaction with Santino had confirmed some of his words for

her.

For instance, the usually busy Seth had taken the time to drive her to school in

the mornings, pick her up in the afternoons, and have dinner with her in the

evenings.

She could tell he was genuinely busy at times, but he never let it interfere with

his work.

His efficiency visibly increased.

Yet, it was clear he was getting tired.

Women don’t need men to tell them how busy they are because they’ll always

find reasons to be understanding and to feel for them.

They’ll step back, compromise, and willingly forsake their desires to

accommodate them.

Like her, she wished Seth would continue spending time with her, but she didn’t

want to see him exhausted.

Thankfully, it was only for a week.

*

Cicely spent a day resting at home during the holiday.

The next day, she received a message from Issac: [Danielle was causing

trouble at the hospital again.]

Starting some simple rehab exercises had reignited her pain and weakness,

leading to another emotional breakdown.

If Cicely didn’t know Danielle was truly crippled, she would have suspected it

was all an act to garner attention.

It had worked for her before.

Danielle’s room was in disarray.

It showed signs of being cleaned up, but that was no match for Danielle’s

deliberate mess.

Cicely visited around noon, bringing lunch from home.

Danielle’s edgy bravado seemed to wane upon seeing her, her demeanor

shifting to a feigned calm as she faced Cicely coldly.

“Here to gloat over me again?”

“There are a lot of people far more entertaining than you. Now, other than lying

in bed, what’s so interesting about your little performance art of throwing things

around?”

Danielle scoffed. “Cicely, I may be broken now, but it won’t last forever. I won’t

suffer all this for nothing. Everything I’m enduring now, I’ll claim back double

someday.”

Cicely opened the food container, letting the aroma of the meal waft out.

Hearing Danielle’s words, her grip on the container’s edge tightened.

“Danielle, I really don’t like you. I despise you so much that every word out of

your mouth sounds like a conspiracy to me. For example, all this suffering you’re

enduring, nearly crippled, experiencing inhuman pain—I suspect it’s all part of

your grand design.”

Danielle’s hands clenched the blanket. After a few seconds, she laughed

derisively. “Funny, I hate you just as much.”

Cicely’s smile was thin. “You’re not even on my level. Your misery in bed has

nothing to do with me, nor does it mean everyone owes you something. But

remember, Danielle, you still owe me.”

Cicely glanced at the caregiver beside her, who promptly set up the tray table

and arranged the lunch before Danielle.

Danielle looked down at the spread that could be considered lavish, a sarcastic

smirk forming on her lips as she turned to Cicely.

“What’s this supposed to mean? I thought I was in debt to you? What’s this, kill

me with kindness?”

Cicely couldn’t help but laugh as if she had just heard the funniest joke.

“When have I ever been anything but spiteful in all these years that you could

use that term to describe me?”

Danielle’s face turned sour with malice.

A frosty layer settled over Cicely’s eyes too, her voice as cold as ice, “I’m not

one to turn the other cheek. But don’t you worry about me poisoning you; you’re

hardly worth the effort of exacting such a price. What goes on between us is our

own business, but my visit today has everything to do with you and Seth. After

all, you risked your life to save him, and as the one he loves the most, it’s only

natural I take care of some nuisances for him while he’s tied up with other

matters.”Danielle’s chest tightened with emotion. Cicely was here in Seth’s place?

Cicely said Danielle was nothing but trouble. Indeed, there she was, bedridden

and unable to care for herself. If that wasn’t a bother, what was?

Cicely sure had a knack for twisting the knife with her words.

“Get out.” Even as she tried to suppress her feelings, those words betrayed her

anger and agitation.

get all worked up, you know. Getting angry is

bedridden for life, Seth and I will be driven to madness, won’t

Enter title…

her coldly and then let out a mocking

am disabled for life, you’ll never be able to shake

off.”d2

slightly as she looked at Danielle, who

hope. Cicely gave a faint smile. “How shameless are

you, even if you wish

Even blood relatives

you are

four decades to live? How patient do you think he’ll be, to

you day in and day out? Or rather,

someone disabled?”

she

to her

you’re off the hook just because you’re

dream of running away. You were so proud, weren’t you? Well,

up from your grave and lash your corpse to satisfy

you get better soon,

blame me

eyed the neatly laid out food before her.

Cicely’s icy, detached voice rang

you, I wouldn’t starve myself just to spite someone. I’ll

until you’re willing to eat, that’s

annoying.”

to lift, it froze in place. To eat or not to eat, either

Cicely would win.

my appetite.

up at the nurse standing by. “Keep

eats

“Understood.”

a deep

look at her again, turning

take two steps, the door swung open from the

her expression darkening as the man

brought a

returned from the

front of Cicely.

furrowed her brows as she recalled

the door. She reached out

Ray, feeling any

face stiffened, his teeth clenched as he glared at Cicely,

mixed with rage.

you think you’re

advantage of

yet, and here you are looking as

castrated you myself.”

hit Ray

Ray stammered, “Seth never told you what really happened

night?”

slightly, “Does what he say negate the fact

raped me?”

her eyes with a faint smile, she added, “I’m aware of

put our grievances

It was your drunken folly that night

not anyone else’s doing. Ms. Danielle is the true victim

dependent. Let’s not make

exchange, could

to Danielle, his expression flustered, “I’m here to

know Danielle is the

a smile, “Then I must

up, I’ll take

Cicely as they left the

can’t hold him

I didn’t let him

clenched the bag in her hands until her knuckles turned

the chaos

the fear, so vivid and terrifying that even the

shudder.

“Miss?”

the memories, “It seems Mr.

skeptical. A rich playboy, surrounded by a

proclaiming true feelings for one

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

scoffed, “Not perhaps. With his family on the brink, he’s willing

charade for Danielle. It’s clear

this accident was orchestrated by

frowned at the

so much he’d nearly get her killed? That seemed a bit

*

hospital room, Ray stood by Danielle’s

and guilt. “I’m sorry, I had no idea

the mood to give Ray any more attention than she

her fork clumsily, she shoveled food into

indifference.

it’s a dog-eat-dog world. Regardless of the tactics used,

said, not looking up from her plate. “Is it

to him now, and your family is on its

for a comeback, but

blown it for good.”

tight his

on his forehead. “He orchestrated the downfall of my family from

start, Danielle. I’ve told you not to be fooled by

what you can imagine. My dad said the moment he

he had his sights set on

fledgling talent agency, run by a guy who hasn’t

things to make everyone relax their guard against

delivered a fatal blow. He played

That night, I wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve

shown

the receiving end

drained of color. She had pondered

delve into it. She didn’t want to confront

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

you wouldn’t believe it, which is why

up before. I’ve checked with the

road ahead. I came here today

to ask you

look up, her voice restrained

front of that car for him, was it truly

save him, or was it just a ploy to achieve some ulterior

turned to look

a motive, my only desire was to win him

a melancholic smile. “It’s

I didn’t expect my father to be

you

her fork down and

answer are

pressed his lips together. “You should

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

didn’t expect you to brush me off

died,

nodded slightly. “Whether true or not, that’s the answer I needed to

villain in front of me to

caring for you, it’s like denying everything I’ve ever felt.

can’t, I need to

seen Ray this composed

the blanket trembled slightly. She was afraid of Ray in this

to lose, there was no telling what kind of madness

to.

*

of the elevator on the ground floor,

across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

brow furrowed imperceptibly when he

for a moment then tightened. She

a familiar, faint smile on her face. “You’re

“You hate hospitals. What

Came to check

she glanced at him coolly.

in bullying a cripple, so don’t

Cicely arrived at

what Seth

here on your behalf to check on Miss Danielle, considering

lately. She thought it might give

faltered for a

neck,

subtle smile at the corners of her eyes and lips

volatile, and your

even leading to harm.”

with a light smile. “I have Issac with me. Do you think

when I’m fully

sooner she recovers, the sooner I

ties with her.”

hands tucked into the pockets of her down

I braved the

again, that demeanor. No overt anger, just a serene

it, the clearer

sarcasm and rebellion.

reached out to pull her closer,

he’d learned just a week

stepped aside, avoiding his touch. “Whether

join me. And as it happens,

a meal with

blunt rejection, Seth’s complexion

trusted me?” The question floated into Seth’s ears,

pause, he looked up to

for an answer, as

in her

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

pondered for a

at the Ellis

“Alright.”

through the gates of the Ellis family estate,

the sprawling manor, feeling an unexpected sense

green pines stood tall but failed to bring any

vitality.

her brows, and the already somewhat suppressed

She got out of the car and

with servants occasionally

be cautious. “Miss,

the sound of her arrival, a look of surprise

you give us

upstairs,

long ago and

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he have

some buckwheat

the stairs, turning to look at Brody from

step, “And what else?”

a couple

she turned and

to bring out

the brownish buckwheat

of carrots and celery,

of ham and cheese.

a nearby chair, she lifted her gaze to the servants, “Is

prepared for

servants were too frightened to reply, their heads lowered

Brody said helplessly, “Sir has been preferring lighter meals

for these dishes. Even

them. Elderly folks’ meals are

there’s no need

doubt his words, but

dining table was always a feast of

she found Creighton slumped in

book resting on his chest, his head tilted, seemingly

and her eyes

estate now had but one master.

humble corner for his

in love, insisting on

father alone in the

deeply in

gently covering him with a blanket

out of the study.

his nap

his face lit

rascal, why didn’t you tell me you were

got secrets to

“You’re not fighting

be so many quarrels?”

and settling onto the couch. “He’s busy with work, and

missing all the home-cooked meals. Dad, how

for dinner

ask him. He listens to you more

to me.”

I’ll talk to

Creighton for the rest of the

chess, playfully demanding take-backs

amused and exasperated.

father and son squared off while she

occasionally chiming in with unsolicited

is golden; don’t

and bustling, and even the

to have

be.

dinner, Creighton

he was too busy to make it

you two really

us to

Creighton relented.

sent Seth a message. [I’m at the Ellis estate, won’t

coming home tonight.]

about to create a dramatic runaway scenario

all, she couldn’t let Grandpa and Dad

anything amiss.

and she didn’t wait

the Ellis estate’s doorstep. Cicely

and moved to assist Seth with his coat. “Why are

message imply for

on the rack, her voice neutral, “No, it

know.”

no reason for a married

invitation for us to stay

could respond, he had pulled her into his embrace

living room. “Good

seeing the couple’s closeness, smiled, “I’ve heard

hard these past few days, have you eaten

“Not yet.”

I’ll have the staff whip up a few dishes. Cicely, take

The dishes were all tailored

him for dinner, but as she stepped

inexplicable stares of her father and

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

“You two

a deep breath, “Just came out to grab

her way over to the coffee

back to the dining

Enter title…

her return to dine with him, and

across from him did he glance up at her. “If you really

Ellis family estate isn’t as cozy

gripped her water bottle, her

staying here for the near

emotion crossed Seth’s brow as he methodically chewed

set down his

explain

that you’ve explained it, it’s

water bottle for a sip, “I said I’m not fighting with

the same person

mouth with a napkin, “So you’re

here just on

on a reason, I have some. I’m

time. In fact, on my way back today,

my dad and changed my mind. You

but he could use some company. Are

not fighting

was impassive, her lips curled

last part, coupled with her

placed on the question

noon.

believe it? If not, she would prove

lips twitched in amusement. “If you want to stay, stay. It’s just

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

own home,

sip from his

was surprised by his easy acquiescence,

disagreed today,

understand why he mentioned

such an easy compromise.

father and grandfather

to her what their conversation would

matters.

for little home

notebooks

liked doodling

door was knocked, the servant opened it to

frost, stepping inside. “Ms. Cicely,

“How heartless, sending you out in such cold

of the

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

can sit and wait for

an errand. Mr. Seth asked me

be on my way

looked up, turned around, and noticed

to Charlie. Brody, seeing this, quickly directed the servant to

suitcase upstairs.

linger, bidding

a glass of milk. After

upstairs.

talk about

out? The servant had

went to

while since she’d indulged

the water temperature, she slid into the tub and let out a

view of the garden and

It

especially for her return.

had asked her father to

the years, glimpsing at them had

bathtub,

edge of the tub, twisted a hot towel, and

over her eyes.

essential oil dripped into the water, soothing her fatigue. With

didn’t move again. She drifted in and out of sleep

felt a sudden chill.

above the water felt the coolness, and she

her eyes, her

up to see the man frowning at

side of the tub.

be the first to drown in

startled, but it was by the man who had appeared silently

had

feel cold.

to blame.” Cicely tried to shake

to her and began to undress in a brazen

“What are you

missing a beat,

else does one do in a

the tub to cover herself, and stood

leave, she was

the towel to her chest and glared up at him.

to do?”

looked down at the woman in his arms, her

more radiant than usual.

a voice that was low and enticing.

deflated embarrassingly, “You

without drowning.”

chuckled softly. Compared to her quiet, gentle demeanor, always

aura, he preferred her current bold, even if

demeanor.

retort, he began to run his

hair

“No.”

of the shower interrupted Cicely’s

her consent before turning on

hand covered

lacked principles, but that

her anger before it even took

inch, as the towel she’d

yanked away by

awkward, her arms crossing in front

modesty she could.

shampoo into her hair with patience, massaging

chest to

eyes closed, Cicely considered that her taste

merit. After all, there were more than

fallen for this

he nudged her toward the

a quick shower

him with a cool expression, Cicely asked,

you planning

any reason I

apartment, it’s quite a trek from here to

insist on staying here. I can’t exactly haul you back against

will.”

of anger tinged Cicely’s

lips curled into a smile as he drew closer

compared to spending a

better.”

can’t sleep by

gaze drifted leisurely over her

contours of her body.

reached out

from the

water

his succinct and cryptic

she suddenly felt something insistent pressing against her and

Seth had already set the

his forehead against hers. “We should get out

voice tightened, “Let go. I

we’re not going out just

Cicely could react, Seth’s lips closed over

a

afraid she’d scream out. She hit

“This is the

convenient, but you

it down in a

wrapped around his waist, and as

she was on the

and slipping her into pajamas, Seth placed her

her soft hair spreading across

other side of the bed, facing her. As

his long arm scooped her into

to resist, knowing he’d

was too exhausted to continue

*

The next day.

Seth was already gone. The

faded, with new ones

protective—or so he seemed. Any pain in

to it. Yet now, with her body covered

all too pleased.

freshening up and slipping into her loose loungewear,

she found

their morning exercise and were

Cicely, Creighton shook his head with a mix

“You really should fix that habit

by the servant, sipped half of it,

in is the best

your health, and

is the most important meal.

didn’t you leave with

left Cicely speechless for a

went to the office. Why would I

Perfect timing with your holiday.

ending up clueless. What? Didn’t Seth tell

clear reluctance. “No,

why he didn’t mention

at passing the

he really didn’t tell

that she genuinely didn’t know, Creighton dropped

grandfather

come?”

onto the couch, resting her elbow

blend of elegance and

lunch by yourself at

and they were already leaving

night before, Danielle’s name had come up several times at

alone in the hospital while the rest of them

a table was incredibly inappropriate and heartless. After a

to visit

say the Ellis family

to Danielle would have

time for dinner. His timing was

first, while Cicely sat with Creighton and

before going up to her bedroom,

desk.

word, she went to the bathroom, and upon

quick shower, she emerged to

bed to

had finished his work. He

on the bed, walked over, brushed her forehead with his hand,

to give her a gentle peck on the lips. “I’m going to shower. Don’t

Wait for me,

up lazily, “How horny can you be? It’s been days on end.

you up to?”

teasing, “What makes you think I won’t let

rest tonight?”

“Then what am I

there are plenty of things we

pushed him gently,

pushed away by her, Seth’s

penetrating with

gasping for air. She lifted her

soft whimper.

on her, just barely.

trying to kiss me to death?” she managed to say

Seth off guard with their unintentional

“Kiss you to death? I wouldn’t dream of it. But

now, Mrs. Diaz,” he said

Cicely’s drowsy eyes suddenly sharpened as she gazed

face just inches from hers. A gentle smile tinged

penalty for self-justification, then

I

held the same amused expression, yet a chill seemed to

ahead. Punish me

head, calmly and seriously meeting his gaze.

I’m so into you, any punishment

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

her beautifully curved jawline, “So, ask yourself, do

give

and ran her

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

her eyes, Seth felt a

gently caressing her smooth chin, “You

moved from

heard, love and hate

one loves someone at the start,

and smiling eyes, but Cicely’s gaze

brows soft with flirtation, “Don’t worry, though. Even if

I doubt it will. I wouldn’t choose to hate

sting to the nerve, his dark eyes fixed on Cicely for a

faint smile. He let go of Cicely’s chin and stood up

shirt was already missing two buttons that Cicely had undone;

unfastened the rest.

off tonight. It’s still early, so be good and wait

turned to leave and then paused, “If you’re not obedient, I’ll have

you up my way.”

no desire to find out what his

emerged from the shower, Cicely

a video game. She glanced at him,

game.

into bed and snatched the phone from her

strongly, “Is there something you need

at the

talking, he swiped and

don’t know anything about business, what am

do there?”

knew even a little, you wouldn’t need to tag along with me to

in

I have to

good little girl? Do you think

you

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

or in the future, your

manage the Ellis family forever. If

weak moment and start eating

know where to cry. Don’t be naive,

you is

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

is mine, isn’t it yours too? What’s there to argue

when truly in your own hands,

quietly, “What makes you insecure? You think one day

you want to

to her, his gazes

like

a trail of

beyond these two reasons, is there

improve, and he didn’t

the shadow in their depths replaced by a

In fact, instead of

why

phone back, “I’ve downloaded some files to

sleep, and ask me about anything

understand tomorrow.”

the document app he

with a blur of text. “What will you

at her, then got out of bed, lifting the

and I need to reflect. Naturally, I can’t stay

mood.”

watched him get up, grab a coat, and

it wasn’t about reflection. The man

a tantrum.

＊

his study for two hours. Approaching eleven

face looking worse

lights had dimmed, leaving only a nightlight by

woman sleeping with the

reignited.

Heartless woman.

bed, taking the phone from her

she hadn’t closed.

opened for her before leaving. He then

sleeping face and

a rush to find her a reliable

and tossing it aside, he watched the woman sleep

face cold as he pulled

to the man’s arms

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

her up,

one sentence, she fell silent again,

petty.

＊

woke Cicely with a

cup of strong coffee.

to morning grumpiness, she was even more

robbed of breath.

hard a couple of

mind?!”

flashed a mischievous grin as he swung his legs out of

off

I am not going.” Cicely yanked the comforter

your face.” Seth’s voice

Cicely didn’t budge.

me do this

the comforter off with a huff, sat up,

strength could she muster

pillow

was close by, and the pillow barely registered upon

I’m

pillow, and placed it back on

you up by the time I’m out,

me to wake you up for the second time, then

back to sleep.”

in frustration. As Seth turned away, the

into a sly

she threw the covers aside and stomped off to the

squeezing toothpaste onto his brush. He watched

reflection in the mirror.

eyebrows,

Seth, as if

at their reflection. Seth nonchalantly placed the toothpaste

aside.

task, she started brushing.

toothpaste. The

slight smile of

breakfast, they headed to the Ellis

of the document from last night did you

to know anything.

I supposed to do at the

just smiled and

office, Cicely understood why he hadn’t

a new desk and

immediate deployment.

the computer; you can keep

turned her face

excuse, “There are printed copies

like no matter

for it. Reluctantly, she moved to the desk and

pile of folders.

you don’t understand, and we can go over it

will you

a C&P

frowned, “You’re leaving

there wolves in the

reading; I’ll be

to retort

her before leaving the

clear sign she was up to no

she possibly stir up in

Seth left, Cicely did take

marks with her pen, but within half an hour, the pen

her phone

later, she left the office, returning after another half-hour

through the drawers, fiddled with the

a pen and doodled on a black leather notebook she found

and then,

and

Cicely sat there, the picture of

student.

much did you get through?”

bit challenging since it’s new to me, so I’m on the

a whole morning and you’re proud of that?”

stung.

bristled, “Mr. Diaz, the fact that I’m

the

open, he found her doodles—a

written in a

her ‘artwork’ and flushed slightly, but quickly adopted an air

nonchalance.

his lips and took a deep breath, “Anything

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

Cicely tidied the documents away.

hungry,” she declared as if it justified

bridge of his nose and sank into his chair. “Lunch is

Come over here.”

prepared? No

the files and approached

his long arm pulled her into an embrace.

Cicely said, leaning back with a wary

around her waist, his voice deep

one taking

“What do you mean?”

day, you’d concoct all kinds of schemes

and respectful. Now, you can’t even be bothered

and this half-hearted attitude.

is?”

arched an eyebrow, “Respectful? That’s because I harbored

and it’s intentional,

impunity, but Seth had no comeback, “So

feel like harboring intentions towards

current relationship, that would

Seth was momentarily speechless.

victorious, smiled,

it’s to your

pushed her away and leaned back in his chair, turning

expression

Cicely watched him—

was

by Charlie from a local diner, indeed

no intention of

“Aren’t you eating?”

response was drowned out by the rhythmic clacking of the

a flat “Not hungry.” His mood was as frosty as

was suffused with the unmistakable vibe

a big deal’.

by myself?” she asked,

table laden with food, while he didn’t even bother to

her way.

you can’t eat it, leave it.

“Then I

tonight.”

her with an icy

settled onto the couch and picked up

coolly, “Nobody said we have to sleep together every night. If

wait until

“How long are you planning to keep up

attitude with me?”

the innocent, “Isn’t it

to keep butting heads

silverware tightened before relaxing.

to

and I’ll

Seth fell silent.

*

at the Ellis

stayed in his

but under Seth’s watchful eye, that wasn’t

department heads for updates

tedious reports and progress reviews, the office atmosphere was tense

Ellis family, even if

her father, she couldn’t afford to be seen as

the workday approached, Cicely found most of her attention

the department leaders’ trembling, overly

hadn’t made much progress

hadn’t commented on it.

Mom’s shopping nearby, and we’ll drive

in a while.”

“I should probably let

need, I’ve already told

murmured an acknowledgment and moved to the door

arrived yetTo claim Cicely wasn’t the least bit fazed

when it came down to it, Cicely

deal with things as they come.

best to

wasn’t her

chill outside was biting, and naturally,

off waiting by the door. She cozied up in the lounge area, wrapping an

around Seth’s.

quickly offered them some

Enter title…

call and

took a sip of warm water from his

minutes of silence, Seth broke the ice. “Spit it out, will

fascinating about my face?”d2

told if

But with him always buzzing around, she never did.

he hadn’t even mentioned anything

hair, her palm warming against the

said nonchalantly, “I overheard General Manager from

this

the old models. We

tech. The Ellis family has the know-how and the development rights.

bidding and choosing

the deal over to Diaz International? Given the ties between

and the Ellis family, why haven’t you

fish like the Harper family, and

are all eyeing the Ellis project.

with the Ellis

picks Diaz International, the rest can just

so many would kill for that kind

not up for it, or do you just chicken out when

or the Watsons? Or is it just that you

with the Ellis family?”

Ellis Corporation, I

more fitting partners than

with the Ellis family, are you

Corporation to make things

surprised by his stance. “What’s wrong with that?

the bottom line is what counts. Why

for you, I’ll bang

mouth twitched into a half-smile. “Is

“Too scared to take the big deals, too proud for

of running

swallow it up. That way, you wouldn’t have to worry about any

actually a

thought about it, the

his eyes but

his silence, Cicely propped her chin in her hands

through with that? Assess the value

convert it into shares for you in the Ellis family? Or,

me personally, and I’ll cut you

How about

all this rigmarole for? Why

in Diaz International?”

me, if there’s

to you besides your mother, it’s probably Diaz

I’ve been thinking that I

gives me an edge over

might just be it.”

and unfathomable as he watched

the last bit of Diaz International. So what if I say

sofa, with a

time to

lips tightened, clearly displeased with her

thinly. “Then isn’t

Ellis family banner the

did Diaz International ever do to tick you off?” The voice

tone that belonged

switched

already standing opposite her, her

wariness.

out loud. Then I figured it wasn’t such a bad

too shabby, right? Especially

soon. No need to keep things

the future. You bite

chew. And a heads-up, don’t even think about

International.”

eyes carrying a

Patty wasn’t

since Seth had already stood up, his expression far from rosy.

go.”

glanced at Cicely, probably mindful of Seth’s expression. Patty pursed

as if forcefully suppressing a multitude of

had dinner at the

might be the real way

was out of

drive back to the Ellis residence, Seth took the wheel

“Where are you off to

“Same as today.”

me alone in

I’ll disturb

car window, twirling a strand of hair

her slender finger.

silent for a few seconds before slowly speaking, “Yeah,

into a half-smile, “Should I prepare some new

you?”

head, “No need,

Seth fell silent.

the butler welcomed them respectfully. “Miss,

you today; they’ve been temporarily stored in the warehouse.

to open them now, I can bring them

changed her shoes and said, “Well, bring

were indeed many packages. Cicely

started to slice open the parcels

knife.

were small items – mugs, thermos cups, small decorations

but

manuals was many times more

when she read documents.

Seth showered, he came down to find Cicely

freshen up; we’re

him a white travel tumbler. “This one’s for

notable heft, and engraved on it was

with her name beneath. Beside her

name. The rest of the items were pairs, hers in dark tones, his

light.

made you think of buying

after coming back this time did I realize there are no

it feels

spoke while still engrossed in the small

it was the most natural thing in the world. Seth

to

white tumbler in the

contentedly.

at the Ellis estate and setting the staff to work, Seth

Cicely’s focus was still scattered, but

much the same as what she’d

department heads yesterday.

aside, paced the office, and

knock on the door.

arms laden with parcels. “Ms.

addressed to you.”

bored till now, perked up at the sight,

she resumed her task with the

office transformed.

a new pen holder, several stylographs, a fresh mouse pad,

couple of notebooks.

his,

a cushion

even

question the wisdom of leaving

acting as though she’d done nothing out of the ordinary, asked

for lunch

countered, “How much work did you

then hesitantly

on the computer, bringing up a

bit of

everything but work.

No surprise there.

unaware of its contents, only saw Seth’s

slightly upward. “I’m hungry,” she stated,

closed the video.

closer, seeing a screen full of text. Seth

the

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

on the desk,

take you

for a meal was music to

*

Seth stayed at the Ellis Corporation,

staff for

routine stretched over several days, and

affairs, she couldn’t help but

settled, it was time for the

a hectic affair.

Corporation, Diaz International, and C&P were arranged

at

The topfloor ballrooms were split between the Ellis Corporation and

the other north, distinctly

event was just below Diaz International’s—a floor

with the Ellis Corporation.

fitted cocktail dress with

of silver high-heeled

elaborately dressed as others, she still stood out as the most eyecatching

her birth, Cicely seemed destined

in design, yet undeniably from the

The man by her side was distractingly

to look away. Cicely

to the Diaz International gala to

stage and deliver the expected

before whisking her away

Corporation gala was orchestrated

and father present, the

at the

almost like a

receiving blessings

Cicely mused

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

others are taking care of it,” Seth

hand, Cicely teased with

are a lot of celebrity

coolly, “And

curious to

“If your intentions weren’t

have considered it.”

just want to admire

I’ll

personal viewing.”

seemed serious about skipping the C&P gala. Cicely understood

to keep a low profile there, and even more

its grand

its grip, was the envy of many. Naturally, the number of people

cozy up to

a patient man, unwilling to waste time

ingratiate themselves with him.

magnet for journalists,

from the C&P event was deliberate, with plenty

not long after, Charlie hurriedly

got drunk at

over

demeanor darkened. As

his wrist, “What’s

soon,”

before following Charlie out.

he was out of sight, then

International’s gala, Ray was slouched on the

of hard liquor.

Seth with a sneer,

feet and approached

slurred, emphasizing each syllable with a bitterness that

with venom. “You’re

flashing a thumbs-up at

just how ruthless you can be.

the victor who writes history, that I can’t blame anyone for the downfall

family never provoked you; we were just in your

the we had, you

attendees hadn’t anticipated such drama on the eve of

air, the implications clear to

whispers about Seth’s tactics, about how Ray’s family

a whim because Ray had

had incensed him enough

against Ray .

some speculated that it had been a premeditated

to confirm

you are still a shareholder in your

leave this place immediately.” Seth said

surrendered their shares when

who, even after waking from a hospital stay, clung stubbornly

ten percent.

was bitter, “Rest assured, I know this isn’t my place.

is your Diaz International event. I can’t do

last of what I have, and I can’t tarnish it. Just as Diaz International

company, so

Diaz International, let you taste the bitterness I

today?”

icy detachment, “If

what makes you think you can destroy Diaz

remark seemed to strip away the last

stupor in his eyes,

and he looked as if he might lunge at Seth in a

vengeful fury.

the bottle of whiskey onto the table next

shattered, sending sharp shards scattering across the polished

glass pierced through

heart to skip a beat. Instinctively,

high heels a clumsy match for her urgency.

jagged remains of the bottle at Seth, Cicely’s face

and she let out a breathless shout. Disregarding

Seth’s arm and embracing

spun half a circle to avoid the

to Seth,

drop of bright red blood fell onto Seth’s hand, and

in his arms seemed about to fall out

moment.

gasp reverberated throughout the banquet

felt a surge of rage at the

on his

his arm stood out, and his

blade, seething with

glared at Ray.

shot through Cicely’s arm and

she gripped his clothes tightly,

“Seth,” she managed to say,

tall.

as it landed

a resounding slap, Cicely slapped him. Stunned, he looked at

drunk and not thinking straight. Have

do you think provoking him will do you now? What if

you?!”

and though her voice carried anger,

clear tremble.

defiant look seemed to stem from the physical reaction to her

her eyes made it clear to him—she was crying,

fear, anger, or

pain gripped his heart as he

cut on her right arm. He grasped her arm,

else are you

and tears fell from her

unfamiliar panic and restlessness swirled within

voice, “Talk

seemed to crumble under

indignation, fear—all converged and broke down silently,

face. “My… my ankle

it in her

glanced at her high heels and, with a grimace, bent down to

his arms.

been tackled to the ground

a knee on his back, restraining his

been right beside Seth and

cry had caused him a

broken bottle had

had been cut on

carried Cicely away, Ray, pinned down by Charlie and unable to

at Seth’s retreating figure with red-rimmed

be so damn arrogant. One

done!”

falter in his

*

and Creighton rushed

frenzy.

diagnosis: a sprained ankle and a two-centimeter laceration on her

shallow, but

treated,

Cicely’s eyes were red and swollen

Erik and Creighton, she greeted them with a

“Dad.”

a phone call and returned to the room. Charlie had

time being. Seth gave a brief

concern for

his concern, which

of hardship

the new year, this happens!

suddenly interjected, “it’s not his

and

I not allowed to speak my

Enter title…

it’ll still hurt if you scold him,

pain stop,

stop,” he said, cutting himself off mid-sentence. She had to

until all his words were

a lifetime, could he not

Cicely, her hair somewhat disheveled but still beautiful,

at the gala when she had unexpectedly run up from

shield him

Totally unexpected.

anger now took

these swirling

intently to the doctor, then stepped beside

red eyes and pursed lips,

lifted her arms and wrapped them around his

hands passed under her knees, lifting her from

brought a slight sense of peace to the two

watching.

Seth back to the

the Ellis residence was the

she had never mentioned leaving

the rare holiday after the gala, Seth

Cicely company.

the restroom, washing up – any time Cicely needed

to carry her, never leaving her side.

Seth was impeccable

actions were bittersweet

from the bathroom to

waiting.

bandaging process, despite the doctor’s caution, some

slight shift in pressure and Cicely would wince. This was

heavy silence from the man beside her, who seemed to make the

as tense as a

the Ellis residence, any sitting with Creighton

inevitably turned to business

in her room, insisted Seth take her with

to the living room or

most

talk about the mechanical

family.

had postponed the deal which should have been

year to

if Diaz International was interested in

as it had been initially with her.

However, Creighton didn’t

on to other matters.

company affairs, she found

to Seth’s voice and being able to look

the Ellis residence just before the new

been injured

at this time.

on previous

family prepared a lavish dinner for her.

brought up the topic of the New

back to the Diaz family for the

as Patty’s mood didn’t match the

were legally

was the most appropriate

a moment, glanced at

somewhat absent-mindedly.

Creighton’s reaction, suddenly felt a deep pang of

home, the

she had returned to spend a

festive gatherings, would leave him alone

*

of the New Yearr’s Eve, Seth took Cicely back to

residence.

to pick

Creighton agreed that leaving Danielle alone in the hospital over

Year was too heartless. After negotiating with the doctor,

to bring

comment. However, the image of two

each other, feels

might liven things up,

again, the thought of Danielle’s haughty, perpetually

that it might be better off without

had been bustling since yesterday, and

to Cicely not being home for the New

knowing Miss Danielle would

didn’t find anyone at the hospital.

encountered Danielle, who should have been picked up

face

Danielle. When she saw Seth carrying

the room, her expression paused for a moment,

smiling.

also had a

face, but she brushed it aside. “Seth, you

that made

you doing here?” Seth asked, ignoring her question

voice was as flat as the calm before

storm.

hands clasped tightly,

here. We couldn’t leave her all alone

holidays, could we?”

surge of anger rising in her chest, but she fought

her best not to let her emotions flare out of

was my dad who applied for her discharge. If anyone was going to take

Ellis family.

Danielle. “Patty is being polite, but

ashamed?”

already embarrassed, turned even more mortified after that brief,

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

was barely able to contain her fury. “The guest I invite is

here. Danielle got herself injured

can never repay. What’s wrong with inviting

her every single day of

lips curled into a sneer. “By that

play

family’s dinners even more

and she whirled to glare

at Cicely. “This is the Ellis

that you have

her?”

furrowed her brows. “Patty, don’t take your dissatisfaction

you who’s making him

“You…”

deep voice

light and smiling, settled on a glass

quietly awaited

not to start a scene and make

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