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 bad

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

Enter title…

her coldly and then let out a

you? If I really am disabled for life, you’ll never

off.”d2

as she looked at Danielle, who seemed to

Cicely gave a faint smile. “How shameless are you to say

even if you wish for a life of disability, the

and neither will Seth. Even blood relatives fed up

you think you are in Seth’s heart? You’ve got,

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

day out? Or

someone disabled?”

pale lips trembled violently as she glared at Cicely. Each word

to her

second that you’re off the hook just

dream of running away. You were

you die, I will dig you up from

if you get better soon, you might be able to slap me

don’t blame me

eyed the neatly laid out food before her.

detached voice rang out

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

to eat, that’s if you don’t find

annoying.”

in place. To eat or not

Cicely would win.

my appetite.

standing by. “Keep an eye on

eats

“Understood.”

took a

look at her again, turning towards

take two steps, the door swung

paused, her expression darkening as the man

sight of Cicely brought a

returned from the

front of Cicely.

standing behind Issac, furrowed her brows as

the door. She reached

Ray, feeling any

face stiffened, his teeth clenched

mixed with rage.

“Mr. Ray, don’t you think

who nearly took advantage of me that

that score yet, and here you

castrated you myself.”

hit

Ray stammered, “Seth never told you what really happened

night?”

what he say

raped me?”

a faint smile, she

and genuinely regret it. Let’s put our grievances aside for

your facts straight. It was your drunken folly

doing. Ms.

Let’s not make

the exchange, could hardly believe

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

Of course, I know Danielle is

that so?” Cicely nodded with a smile,

I’ll take

as they left the hospital room. “Ray wasn’t

so we can’t hold him accountable. He’s been hospitalized

yesterday, but I didn’t

the bag in her hands until her knuckles turned

back the chaos of that night,

so vivid and terrifying that even the mere thought

shudder.

“Miss?”

memories, “It seems Mr.

had been skeptical. A rich playboy, surrounded by a

proclaiming true feelings

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

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

clear she means a

by his family for

frowned at

Danielle so much he’d nearly get her killed? That

*

stood by Danielle’s bed.

I had no idea it would turn

give Ray any more attention

fork clumsily, she shoveled

indifference.

Regardless of

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

jugular? Nothing’s happening to him now, and

chance for a comeback, but now, you

blown it for good.”

clenched so tight his knuckles were

orchestrated the downfall

not to be fooled by his act.

dad

had his sights set

run by a guy who

make everyone relax their guard

suddenly delivered a fatal blow. He played innocent but

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

you, and if Cicely hadn’t shown up, who do you think would

receiving end

She had pondered this question before,

delve into it. She didn’t want to confront the potential

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

you

before. I’ve checked with the

optimistic, albeit a rough road ahead. I came here today to see

to ask

look up, her voice restrained and flat.

of that car for him, was it truly out

or was it just a

finally turned to look at

only desire was to win him

smile. “It’s different. The

my father to be so obstinate. If you knew the crash

would you still have

long silence, Danielle set her fork down and looked up at him.

are

his lips together.

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

quietly. “I didn’t expect

brushing you off. If I had died, what would be the

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

you don’t have to play the villain in front of me

I stop caring for you, it’s like

I need

Ray this composed yet so obsessively insane.

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

telling what

to.

*

Issac stepped out of the elevator on

standing across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

imperceptibly when he saw

purse slackened for a moment

faint smile on her face.

“You hate hospitals. What

another episode. Came to check on

she glanced at him

bullying a cripple,

here not long after Cicely

Seth was worried

to check

She thought it

faltered

scarf around her neck,

smile at the corners of her eyes and

your presence might

even leading to harm.”

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

person could hurt me when

darkened. “The sooner she recovers, the sooner I can

ties with her.”

replied, hands tucked into the

braved the disgust and

that demeanor. No overt anger, just a serene

the more she displayed it, the

sarcasm and rebellion.

you had lunch?” Seth reached out to pull her closer,

learned just a

avoiding his touch. “Whether

you probably don’t have the time to join me. And as it happens, I

sharing a meal with

with such blunt rejection, Seth’s

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

a brief pause, he looked up to find the woman

an answer, as if

in her

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

into the car and pondered for a moment,

at

“Alright.”

gates of

window at the sprawling manor, feeling an unexpected

tall but

vitality.

brows, and the already somewhat

out of the car and walked towards the villa. The

servants occasionally moving about in silence.

to be cautious.

of her arrival,

you give us

upstairs, “Where’s

lunch not too long ago and

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he

some buckwheat

turning to look at

step, “And what else?”

“There were a couple of

deepened as she turned and headed straight for the kitchen.

face, she ordered the servants to bring out what Creighton had

a plate of the brownish buckwheat

light salad of carrots

of ham and cheese.

chair, she lifted her gaze to the servants,

for my father’s

were too frightened to reply, their heads

helplessly, “Sir has been preferring lighter meals these

specifically asked for these dishes. Even if we prepared more,

folks’ meals are quite simple. When you’re

says there’s no need to

doubt his words, but

was always

found Creighton slumped in

his chest, his head tilted, seemingly asleep.

of sorrow hit Cicely, and her eyes

master.

humble corner for his

early, head over heels in love, insisting on living

father alone in the

herself deeply in

covering him with a blanket

out of the study.

from his nap and came downstairs to find

with the servants, his face lit up with an unmistakable

rascal, why didn’t you tell me

secrets to hide before

at her. “You’re not fighting with Seth again,

many quarrels?” Cicely laughed,

settling onto the couch. “He’s

on my break, missing all the home-cooked meals. Dad, how

over for dinner

have to ask him. He listens to you more

to me.”

I’ll talk

stayed glued to Creighton for the rest of the afternoon.

playfully demanding take-backs that

amused and exasperated.

and son squared off while she placed

chiming in with unsolicited

is golden; don’t

and bustling, and

The entire Ellis family seemed to have

be.

Creighton inquired

make it back. Creighton

“Are you two

us

Creighton relented.

still sent Seth a message. [I’m at

coming home tonight.]

wasn’t about to create a dramatic

all, she couldn’t let

anything amiss.

didn’t reply, and she didn’t wait

up at the Ellis estate’s

Seth with his coat.

message imply for me

voice neutral, “No, it was just to

know.”

unavoidable, there’s no reason for a

invitation for us to

could respond, he had pulled her into

into the living room. “Good

closeness, smiled, “I’ve heard you’ve

few days, have

“Not yet.”

the staff whip up a few dishes. Cicely, take

The dishes were all

for dinner,

of her father

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

in, “You two aren’t fighting,

came out to grab my water

coffee table, bending

back to

Enter title…

to

across from him did he glance up

family estate isn’t as cozy as

water bottle, her expression

for

brow as he methodically chewed

down

not explain myself

very well. Now that you’ve explained it, it’s even clearer.”

said I’m not

over the same

with a napkin, “So you’re telling me you’ve

back here just on

on a reason, I have some. I’m

you’re short on time. In fact, on my way

then I saw my dad and changed my mind. You

he could use some company. Are these reasons

prove I’m not fighting with

her lips curled in an

with

had been placed on the question she had left

noon.

it? If

in amusement. “If you want to stay,

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

home,

casually took a sip from

surprised by his easy

disagreed today, it wouldn’t

why he mentioned inconvenience and

such an easy compromise.

Cicely’s father and grandfather in the study.

her what their conversation

matters.

her shopping app for little home decor

sets, and notebooks

liked doodling

knocked, the servant opened it

frost, stepping inside.

heartless, sending

middle of the night

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

discussing matters. You can sit and wait for

need, I just have an errand. Mr.

on

finally looked up, turned around, and noticed a

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

suitcase upstairs.

bidding

glass of milk.

upstairs.

talk about for so long without

The servant had refilled

found some clothes and went to the bathroom where the bath

a while since she’d indulged

she slid into the tub and let out a sigh of

bathroom window was a view of the garden and a

by rotating ground lights. It

especially for her return.

she had asked her father to install the fountain

Over the years, glimpsing at them had become

the edge of the bathtub, staring

against the edge of the tub, twisted a hot towel, and placed

over her eyes.

the water,

again. She

felt a sudden chill.

water felt the coolness,

her eyes,

and she looked up to see the man frowning at

side of the tub.

to be the first to drown in

was by the man who had appeared silently in

of the room had

feel cold.

who’d be to blame.” Cicely tried to shake off his

next to her and began

“What are

beat, dropping his

does one do in

the towel beside the tub to cover herself, and

could leave, she was scooped

to her chest and glared up at

to do?”

down at the woman in his arms, her face flushed from

radiant than usual.

voice that was low and enticing. “Share a shower with

indignation deflated embarrassingly, “You should be able to

without drowning.”

softly. Compared to her

her

demeanor.

retort, he began to run his fingers through her wet

your hair

“No.”

spray of the shower interrupted Cicely’s

before turning

hand covered her eyes. “Close your

that this man had a hundred

her anger before it

still, not moving an inch, as the towel she’d

away

in front of her,

modesty she could.

hair with patience, massaging her

into his chest to rinse it clean with the handheld

her head lowered and eyes closed, Cicely considered that her taste in

all, there were more than a

fallen for this

he applied conditioner to her hair, he nudged

he took a

a cool expression, Cicely asked,

Are you planning to

there any

to your apartment, it’s quite a trek

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

will.”

anger tinged Cicely’s

smile as he drew closer

nothing compared to spending a whole night

better.”

can’t sleep by

should I?” Seth’s gaze drifted leisurely over her

contours of her body.

reached

water from the shower cascading over

eyes closed to prevent water from

focused on his succinct and cryptic response, which left her

something insistent pressing against her and came to

Seth had already set the showerhead aside, his hand on

his forehead against hers. “We should

voice tightened, “Let go.

we’re not going out

could react, Seth’s lips closed over hers abruptly. His leg

with a familiarity that made it

bit her lip, afraid she’d scream out. She hit his shoulder twice, more

“This

wasn’t convenient, but you seemed not to mind. Though, you

keep it

was wrapped around his waist, and

vision blurred until she was

and slipping her into pajamas, Seth placed her

She turned away from him, her soft hair spreading across

circled to the other side of the bed, facing her. As she sensed his

turn away, his long arm scooped her

knowing he’d only persist

too exhausted to continue

*

The next day.

up, Seth was already gone. The patchy marks on her

new ones added from last

gentle, and protective—or so he

he’d tend to it. Yet now, with

all too pleased.

into her

listless, she found Creighton and

returned from their morning exercise

Seeing Cicely, Creighton shook his head with

“You really should fix that habit

took the milk offered by the servant,

is the best part

your health, and too much

most important meal. Why are you still

didn’t you

Cicely speechless for

the office. Why would I

with your holiday. You

company instead of ending up clueless.

showing clear reluctance. “No, he

why he didn’t mention

“You’re quite good at passing the buck to

he really

didn’t know, Creighton dropped the

hospital with your grandfather

come?”

the

a blend of elegance and lazy

lunch by

had just returned, and they were already leaving

come up several times at the

alone in the hospital while the rest of

incredibly inappropriate and

to visit the hospital the next

who dared say the Ellis

would have

for dinner. His timing was

eating, he headed upstairs first, while Cicely sat with Creighton and Erik

before going up to her bedroom, where Seth was

desk.

she went to the bathroom, and upon

a quick shower, she emerged to find Seth still

into bed to play with

had finished his work. He stood

brushed her forehead with his hand,

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

Wait for

you be? It’s been days on

you up to?”

with a hint of teasing, “What makes you think I won’t let

rest tonight?”

mumbled, “Then what am I waiting

are plenty of things we have yet to

pushed him gently, “Then hurry up and

her, Seth’s body pressed down,

penetrating with unrestrained

She lifted

shoulders, letting out a soft whimper. It was only then that Seth eased

on her, just barely.

to death?” she managed to

with their unintentional cuteness, and a

I wouldn’t dream of it. But

now, Mrs. Diaz,” he said with a playful

punishment.” “Misunderstood?” Cicely’s

just inches from hers. A gentle smile tinged her

misunderstanding warrants a penalty for

Shouldn’t I

held the same amused expression, yet a chill

ahead. Punish me any way you

and

that because I’m

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

jawline, “So,

heart to give me a severe

eyebrow and ran her hand across his face, her

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

the emotion in her eyes, Seth felt a subtle stir in his

smooth chin, “You like me

“Mm-hmm.” Her hand moved from his face to his

have you ever heard, love and hate are two

the start, the more

Seth’s warm and

brows soft with flirtation, “Don’t

doubt it will. I wouldn’t choose

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

let go of Cicely’s chin and

already missing two buttons that Cicely had undone;

unfastened the rest.

It’s still early,

leave and then paused, “If you’re not obedient,

you up my way.”

what his method of waking

the shower, Cicely was propped up in bed,

a video game. She glanced at him, then refocused on

game.

climbed into bed and snatched the phone from

“Is there something

join me at the office

talking, he swiped and tapped on her phone

about business, what am I supposed

do there?”

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

thing in

I have to

good little girl? Do you think your

picking on you for

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

future, your only

dad won’t manage the Ellis family forever. If

of a weak moment and start eating away at you,

you won’t even know where to cry. Don’t be naive,

around you is harmlessly

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

mine, isn’t it yours

truly in your own hands, is

makes you insecure? You think one

you want to leave me

Turning to her, his gazes

“It sounds like

leaves a

But beyond these

expression didn’t improve, and he

eyes shifted, the shadow in their depths

be so quick to assume. In

why I harbor

“I’ve downloaded

sleep, and ask

understand tomorrow.”

document app

of text. “What will

out of

I can’t stay by your side

mood.”

up, grab a coat, and walk out.

it wasn’t about

a tantrum.

＊

in his study for two hours. Approaching eleven at

face looking

bedroom, the lights had dimmed, leaving only a

woman sleeping with the phone in her arms,

reignited.

Heartless woman.

taking the phone from her hand and glanced

she hadn’t closed.

same one he’d opened for her before leaving. He then

sleeping face and

was in a rush to find

phone and tossing it aside, he watched the woman

he

man’s arms and scent, shifted comfortably against

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

to wake her up, maybe keep her

fell silent again, and

petty.

＊

woke Cicely with a kiss that

than a cup of strong coffee. Even for school, Cicely rarely

to morning grumpiness, she was

robbed of breath.

hard a couple of times. “Are you out of

mind?!”

as he swung his legs out of

off to

yanked the comforter over her

show your face.” Seth’s voice carried

Cicely didn’t budge.

really gonna make me do

flung the comforter off with a huff, sat up,

straight at him, but what strength could she muster just out

pillow

was close by, and the pillow barely registered

I’m not

the pillow, and placed it back on the bed,

don’t see you up by the

you don’t want me to wake

back to sleep.”

her teeth in frustration. As Seth turned away, the

a

aside and stomped off to

squeezing toothpaste onto his

reflection in the mirror.

subtle raise of his eyebrows, he shifted

brush, and Seth, as if on

She glanced at their reflection.

aside.

task, she started brushing. It was not like

something as simple as toothpaste. The

slight smile of

breakfast, they headed to

document from last night

to know anything.

what am I supposed to do

just smiled and didn’t

office, Cicely understood why he hadn’t mentioned coming

and chair in the corner, waiting

immediate deployment.

the computer; you can keep

turned her face away, “Computers

excuse, “There are printed

silent. She felt like no matter

an answer for it. Reluctantly, she moved to the desk

pile of folders.

anything you don’t understand, and we can go

you

to a C&P

frowned, “You’re leaving me

in the office

reading;

opened her mouth to retort but

glanced at her before leaving

a clear sign she was up to no

she possibly stir up in

Cicely did

but within

and her phone was

the office, returning after another

drawers, fiddled with the decorations,

a black leather notebook

and then, noticing the time,

desk and

Seth returned before noon. Cicely sat

student.

you get through?” he

new to me,

in a whole morning and you’re proud of

stung.

Diaz, the fact that I’m even sitting

noticing the black notebook she had taken

her

in a confident,

flushed slightly,

nonchalance.

pursed his lips and took a deep breath,

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

documents away. Seth

hungry,” she declared as

bridge of his nose and sank into his chair.

Come over here.”

prepared? No complaints

files and approached him.

arm pulled her into an

office,” Cicely said, leaning back with a wary

waist, his

one taking

“What do you mean?”

softly, “Back in the day, you’d concoct

and respectful. Now, you

impatience and this half-hearted attitude. If that’s

is?”

an eyebrow, “Respectful?

it’s intentional,

of impunity, but Seth

harboring intentions towards

relationship, that would mean cheating, Mr.

Seth was momentarily speechless.

victorious, smiled,

me, it’s to your

her away and leaned back in his chair, turning to face

expression

Cicely watched him—

was annoyed

Charlie from a local diner, indeed Cicely’s

to have no intention of joining

“Aren’t you eating?”

out by the rhythmic clacking of

mood was as frosty

office was suffused with the

a big deal’.

to eat all this by

toward a table laden with food,

her way.

leave it.

and huffed, “Then I guess you’ll be

tonight.”

her with an

and picked up the

“Nobody said we have to

wait until you’re

long are you planning to

attitude with me?”

it you who’s been

sure you want to keep butting heads with

her silverware tightened before

continued to

and I’ll sleep

Seth fell silent.

*

the Ellis Corporation since

and had stayed in his

under Seth’s watchful

summoning various department heads for updates on

progress reviews, the office atmosphere

Ellis

image for her father, she couldn’t

workday approached,

the department leaders’ trembling, overly

made much progress

hadn’t commented on it.

a bit. Mom’s shopping nearby, and we’ll

in a while.”

“I should probably let

need, I’ve already told

acknowledgment and moved to the door

stairs, but Patty hadn’t arrived yetTo claim Cicely wasn’t the least bit fazed about meeting

it came down to it, Cicely

things as they come. If Patty was in a good

relax a bit more. If not, best to steer clear. It

Patty wasn’t

naturally, Cicely wasn’t

off waiting by the door. She cozied up in the

around Seth’s.

receptionist quickly offered them some tea and

Enter title…

aside to take a call and returned after a

Cicely. He took a sip of warm water from

silence, Seth broke the ice. “Spit it out, will you?

fascinating about my face?”d2

She’d always been told

with him always buzzing around,

hadn’t even mentioned anything about

strand of her hair, her palm warming against the

“I overheard General

talking about this new mechanical equipment upgrade

the socks off the old

has the know-how

got a point. Instead of bidding and choosing another

deal over to Diaz

family, why haven’t you considered

expression was cold. “The big fish like the Harper family, and

the Ellis project. Diaz

the Ellis family’s

family picks Diaz International, the rest can just sit on

would kill for that kind of opportunity. Are

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

is it just that you flat-out

with the Ellis family?”

the Ellis Corporation, I can say that the Harper

more fitting partners

Ellis family, are you

to make

wasn’t surprised by his stance. “What’s wrong with that?

is what counts. Why sweat the small stuff? If it’s

pride for you,

into a

take

fries. What’s the point of running Diaz

it up. That way, you wouldn’t

actually a

it, the more

his eyes but said

propped her chin in her hands and

through with that? Assess the

convert it into shares for you in the Ellis

to me personally, and I’ll cut you in on a

shares. How about

looked at her coolly. “What’s all this rigmarole for? Why the sudden

in Diaz International?”

me, if there’s anything on this

your mother, it’s

been thinking that I

me an edge over you. But

might just be it.”

and unfathomable as he

last bit of Diaz International.

a carefree smile on her face.

to let

thin lips tightened, clearly displeased

his reaction, Cicely just smiled thinly.

under the Ellis

to tick you off?” The voice came

familiar tone that belonged to none other

then switched on her charm as

standing opposite her, her face a

wariness.

figured it wasn’t such a

too shabby, right? Especially since we will

No need to

“The future is the future. You bite off only as much as

a heads-up, don’t even think about

International.”

an eyebrow, her eyes carrying a mild,

speak further. If Patty wasn’t bringing it up, neither

had already stood up, his expression far from rosy.

go.”

mindful of Seth’s expression.

as if forcefully suppressing

they had dinner at the Diaz residence, but

the real

was out

the Ellis residence, Seth took the

“Where are you off to

“Same as today.”

me alone in

there, I’ll

car window, twirling a strand of hair

her slender finger.

silent for a few seconds

“Should I prepare some

you?”

head, “No need, I’ve got my

Seth fell silent.

butler welcomed them respectfully.

today; they’ve been temporarily stored in the

them now, I can bring them

said, “Well, bring

indeed many packages. Cicely

on a waterproof mat and started to slice

knife.

were small items – mugs, thermos cups, small

but also

manuals was many times more

when she read documents.

showered, he came down to

“Go freshen up; we’re up

him a white travel tumbler. “This one’s

examined it—it had a notable heft, and engraved on it was

beneath. Beside her was a matching black one, likely

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

light.

made you think

after coming back this time did I realize there are

and it

in the small items, her tone and

the most natural thing in the world. Seth didn’t

her to

morning, seeing the white tumbler in

contentedly.

Ellis estate and setting the staff to

more. Cicely’s focus was still scattered, but after reviewing

the same as what she’d

department heads yesterday.

paced

knock on the door.

with parcels.

addressed to you.”

bored till now, perked up at the sight, “Put them on

in Seth’s chair, she resumed her task

office

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

couple of notebooks.

corner mirrored his, albeit with a simpler color

with a cushion

even appeared on the coffee table. He

to question the wisdom of leaving her alone in

as though she’d done nothing out of

for

work did

then hesitantly added a

few keys on the computer, bringing up

of Cicely’s boredom—and

everything but work.

No surprise there.

silent, and Cicely, unaware

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

closed the video.

a screen full of text. Seth

progress today, spent the

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

over the new objects on the desk,

take

the office for a meal was music

*

at the Ellis Corporation,

staff for

and even if Cicely wasn’t

she couldn’t help but be

was time for the company’s annual

a hectic affair.

and C&P

at the same hotel, for

The topfloor ballrooms were split between the Ellis Corporation and Diaz

the south, the other north, distinctly

just below Diaz International’s—a

with the Ellis Corporation.

a silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress with the hem just

wore a pair of silver high-heeled shoes, and

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

birth, Cicely

clothes were simple in design, yet undeniably from the top

luxury. The man by her side was distractingly handsome, a

look away. Cicely had everything

her to the Diaz International

expected pleasantries,

away to the Ellis

was orchestrated by

father present, the spotlight

arrival at the Ellis Corporation

and well-wishes, almost like a

their guests, receiving blessings

found their seats, Cicely mused aloud, “Isn’t the C&P gala

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

are taking care of

her chin in her hand, Cicely teased

lot

glanced at her coolly, “And plenty of male

to

your intentions weren’t so transparent, I

have considered it.”

want to admire

replied curtly, “Sure, one day I’ll bring them

personal viewing.”

skipping the C&P gala. Cicely

profile there, and even more so in

whole. C&P, after its grand

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

cozy up to

a patient man, unwilling to waste

ingratiate themselves with him.

a magnet for

the C&P event was deliberate, with plenty of

long after,

Diaz, Ray got drunk at the C&P gala

a commotion over at Diaz

his demeanor darkened. As he stood

wrist, “What’s

be back soon,” he said, squeezing her

before following Charlie out.

was out of

Ray was slouched

nursing a nearly finished bottle of hard liquor. His face flushed

he greeted Seth with a sneer, using the

his feet and approached

slurred, emphasizing each syllable with a bitterness that seemed

word with venom.

coldly, flashing

admit, you play hardball. I’ve seen just

history, that I can’t blame anyone for the downfall of

never provoked you; we

we had,

such drama on the eve of

air, the

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

whim because Ray had once made an indecent pass at

this had incensed him

against Ray .

some speculated that it had been a premeditated strike. Now,

seemed to confirm the

are still a shareholder in your family

leave this place

shares when Ray’s family

even after waking from a hospital stay,

ten percent.

assured, I know this isn’t my place. I’m

this is your Diaz International event. I

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

destroyed my company, so tell me,

you and ruined Diaz International, let

today?”

with icy detachment,

what makes you think you can

the last shred of

replaced the drunken stupor in his eyes,

and he looked as if he

vengeful fury.

the table next to Seth with such

shards scattering across

breaking glass pierced through

causing Cicely’s heart to skip

towards Seth, her high heels a clumsy match for her

jagged remains of the bottle

she let out a breathless shout. Disregarding her

forward, pulling Seth’s arm and embracing him tightly

half a circle to

clung to Seth, her body shielding

onto Seth’s hand, and the woman

appeared in his arms seemed about to fall out of his embrace. at

moment.

collective gasp reverberated throughout the banquet

to intervene, felt a surge of rage at the

on

stood out, and

seething with a

glared at Ray.

shot through Cicely’s arm and

anger, she gripped his

pain. “Seth,” she managed to say, forcing herself to

tall.

as it

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

straight. Have you had

good do you think provoking him will

you?!”

her voice carried anger,

clear tremble.

to stem from the physical reaction to her

in her eyes made it clear to him—she was

fear, anger,

his heart as he surveyed her injuries,

a clear cut on her right arm.

“Where else are you

her lip, and tears fell

panic and restlessness

voice, “Talk

to

indignation, fear—all converged and broke down silently,

“My… my ankle hurts,”

twisted it in her

high heels and, with a grimace, bent

his arms.

had been tackled to the ground by

with a knee on his back, restraining his

been right beside Seth and

cry had caused him a moment’s hesitation. In that

broken bottle had swung

had been cut on

Cicely away, Ray, pinned

shout at Seth’s retreating

don’t be so damn arrogant. One day, you’ll pay for

done!”

didn’t falter

*

and Creighton rushed to

frenzy.

a sprained ankle and a two-centimeter laceration on

shallow, but

been treated, her

red and swollen

greeted them with a tearful “Grandpa”

“Dad.”

just ended a phone call and returned to

being. Seth gave a brief nod to the Erik and Creighton. Their minds were

concern for

concern, which

girl has never known a day of hardship in her life, and

year, this happens!

interjected, “it’s not his fault. I was

listen and

I

Enter title…

“It hurts now, and it’ll still hurt if you scold

make the pain stop, then

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

his words were

he not see through

hair somewhat disheveled but

at the gala when she had

him

Totally unexpected.

and anger now took on a

he could process these swirling

intently to the doctor,

red eyes

lifted her arms and wrapped them around

her knees, lifting her from the

sense of peace to the

watching.

and Seth

and returning to the Ellis

never mentioned

holiday after the gala, Seth stayed at the Ellis

Cicely company.

using the restroom, washing up – any time Cicely

to carry her, never leaving her side. Apart from

impeccable in his

silent, complaint-free actions were

the bathroom to the bed where the doctor

waiting.

bandaging process, despite the

shift in pressure and Cicely would

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

tense as a surgical

any sitting with Creighton that lasted more

turned to business

her room, insisted Seth take her

was just to the living room or the study.

to most of

heard them talk about the mechanical manufacturing issues of the

family.

postponed the deal which should have been settled before

year to

had asked Seth if Diaz International was interested

was the same as it had been

However, Creighton didn’t dwell on this

on to other matters.

Cicely wasn’t interested in company affairs, she

and being able to look up and see

at the Ellis residence just before the new year.

who had been injured protecting

at this time. But

than on

Ellis family prepared a lavish dinner for her. She

dinner table, she brought up the

bring Cicely back to the Diaz family

was surprised, as Patty’s mood didn’t match

since they were legally married, spending New Year’s at

appropriate and normal

paused for a moment, glanced at

somewhat absent-mindedly.

noticing Creighton’s reaction, suddenly felt

was not at home, the vastness of the

had returned to spend a few days, the New

for festive gatherings, would leave him alone

*

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

residence.

left with them to pick up Danielle from

agreed that leaving Danielle alone in the

heartless. After negotiating with the doctor,

to bring

comment. However, the image of two old people spending

home, staring at each other, feels sad just thinking about

Danielle might liven things up, serving as

of

that it might be better

been bustling since yesterday,

not being home for

a sumptuous feast knowing Miss Danielle

Creighton didn’t find anyone at the hospital. And Cicely, arriving at

should have been picked

face

Danielle. When

the room, her expression paused for a moment, but then

smiling.

seated in her wheelchair, also had a momentary

A shadow crossed her face, but she

The way she said that made it sound like Cicely

are you doing here?” Seth asked, ignoring her question and

voice was as flat as

storm.

bit her lip, hands clasped

leave her all

holidays, could we?”

felt a surge of anger rising in her chest, but she fought to keep it in

not to let her emotions flare out of

for her discharge. If anyone was going to

it should’ve been the Ellis family. You stay here for the

“Patty is being polite, but don’t you even

ashamed?”

already embarrassed, turned even more mortified after that brief,

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

contain her fury. “The

should be here. Danielle got herself injured saving

What’s wrong with inviting her over for dinner? I’d

taking care of her every

sneer. “By that logic, any woman

and play the damsel in distress. Wouldn’t

the Ellis family’s

anger, and she whirled

Cicely. “This is the Ellis family’s

desperate for a mother figure that

her?”

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

who’s making

“You…”

deep voice

smiling, settled on a glass on the

as she quietly awaited Seth’s

here to celebrate, not to start a scene

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