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.

all worked up, you know. Getting angry is bad for your health. If

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

Enter title…

glared at her coldly and then let out a

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

off.”d2

slightly as she looked at Danielle,

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

even if you wish for

Even blood relatives fed up

you are in Seth’s heart? You’ve got,

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

out? Or rather,

someone disabled?”

she glared at Cicely. Each word

to her

think for a second that you’re off the hook just because

running away. You were

will dig you up from your grave and lash

better soon,

blame me for bullying

Danielle eyed the neatly laid out food before her.

Cicely’s icy, detached voice rang

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

to eat, that’s if

annoying.”

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

Cicely would win.

appetite. Please,

looked up at the nurse standing by. “Keep

she eats

“Understood.”

a

at her again, turning towards the

take two steps, the

paused, her expression darkening as the man who entered

Ray. The sight of Cicely brought a surge of intense

just returned from the restroom, rushed

front of Cicely.

furrowed her brows

She reached

feeling any

his teeth clenched as he glared

mixed with rage.

smiled, “Mr. Ray, don’t you think

who nearly took advantage of me

even come to settle that score yet, and here you

castrated you myself.”

words hit

“Seth never told

night?”

gaze lowered slightly, “Does what he say negate the fact that you

raped me?”

she added, “I’m aware of Mr. Ray’s

regret it. Let’s put our

facts straight. It was your drunken folly

anyone else’s doing. Ms. Danielle is the

Let’s not make her situation

the exchange, could

Danielle, his expression

Of course, I know Danielle is

nodded with a smile, “Then

up, I’ll take

as they left the hospital room.

we can’t hold him

but I didn’t let him

her hands

brought back the chaos of that night, the

terrifying that even the

shudder.

“Miss?”

memories, “It seems Mr.

been skeptical. A rich playboy, surrounded by a constant

true feelings for one seemed far-fetched.

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

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

this charade for Danielle. It’s clear she means a lot to

this accident was orchestrated by

at the

he’d nearly get

*

hospital room, Ray stood by Danielle’s bed. His handsome face

I had no idea it would

give Ray any

clumsily, she shoveled food into her mouth

indifference.

Regardless of the

from her plate. “Is it really necessary

jugular? Nothing’s happening to him now, and

at least a chance for a comeback, but now, you guys

blown it for good.”

tight his knuckles were white,

on his forehead. “He orchestrated the

start, Danielle. I’ve told you not to

My dad said

his

run by a

these things to make everyone relax

delivered a fatal blow.

wasn’t simply

hadn’t shown up,

at the receiving end of my

face drained of color. She had pondered this question

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

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

deep breath. “I know you wouldn’t believe it,

I’ve checked with the doctors about your condition,

ahead. I

ask you

her voice restrained

stepped in front of that car for him, was it truly out of a willingness

or was it

and finally turned to

a motive, my only desire was to win him

melancholic smile. “It’s different.

I didn’t expect my father to be so obstinate. If you knew

would you still

set her fork down

answer are

pressed his lips together. “You

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

didn’t expect you to brush me off

you off. If I had died, what would be

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

have to play the villain in front of me

like denying everything I’ve

but since I can’t, I need

this composed yet so obsessively insane.

blanket trembled slightly. She was afraid of

lose, there was no telling what

to.

*

and Issac stepped out of the elevator

standing across the

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

imperceptibly when he

grip on her purse slackened for a moment then tightened. She

with a familiar, faint smile on her face.

hate hospitals. What are you doing

she had another episode. Came to check on her with

After a brief silence, she glanced at

a

after Cicely arrived at the

the side, instantly grasped what Seth was worried about. “Mr. Diaz,

on your behalf to check on Miss

been lately. She thought it might give you

faltered for

scarf around her neck, presenting

at the corners of her eyes

are volatile, and your

even leading to harm.”

with a light smile. “I have

when I’m fully able

expression darkened. “The sooner she recovers, the sooner

ties with her.”

replied, hands tucked into the pockets of her

why I braved the disgust and

demeanor. No overt anger, just a serene and gentle

the clearer Seth could sense her

sarcasm and rebellion.

Seth reached out to pull her closer, remembering

just a week

stepped aside, avoiding his touch. “Whether I have

probably don’t have the time to join me.

meal with

blunt rejection,

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

he looked

She didn’t leave room for an answer, as if the

conclusion in

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

into the car and pondered for a moment,

Dad at the

“Alright.”

the car rolled through the gates

sprawling

tall but failed to bring any

vitality.

furrowed her brows, and the

out of the car and walked towards

with servants occasionally moving

to be cautious. “Miss,

the sound of her arrival, a look of

give us a

upstairs, “Where’s

and

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he have

some buckwheat

up the stairs, turning to look at Brody

step, “And what else?”

were a couple of

turned and headed

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

plate of the brownish buckwheat

salad of carrots and

of ham and cheese.

a nearby chair, she lifted her

you prepared for my

servants were too frightened to reply, their

has been preferring lighter

asked for these dishes. Even if we prepared more,

meals are

says there’s no need to cook

to doubt his words, but in her memories,

was always

reaching the study, she found Creighton slumped in

book resting on his chest, his head

hit Cicely, and her eyes began to

master. That

humble corner

married early, head over heels in love, insisting on living with Seth

her father alone

herself deeply in her

gently covering him with a blanket

out of the study.

woke from his nap

with the servants, his face lit up

little rascal, why didn’t you tell me you

got secrets to

at her. “You’re not fighting

there be so many quarrels?” Cicely laughed, linking arms

the couch. “He’s

missing all the home-cooked meals.

over for dinner

ask him. He listens

to me.”

I’ll talk

the

teaching her chess, playfully demanding take-backs

amused and exasperated.

father and son squared off

in with unsolicited

bristled, “Silence is golden;

was lively and bustling, and

entire Ellis family seemed to have returned to how

be.

dinner, Creighton

busy to make it back.

glance, “Are you two really

us to be alright, will

Creighton relented.

message.

coming home tonight.]

to create a dramatic runaway scenario with Seth,

home. After all, she couldn’t let Grandpa

anything amiss.

didn’t reply, and she didn’t wait

the Ellis estate’s

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

imply for

her voice neutral, “No, it

know.”

reason for a married couple to sleep apart.

as an invitation for

could respond, he had pulled her into

living room.

seeing the couple’s closeness, smiled,

past few days, have you eaten

“Not yet.”

then, go ahead, I’ll have the staff whip up a few dishes.

all tailored to

on joining him for dinner, but as she stepped out, she

her father and

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

two aren’t fighting,

came out to grab my water

way over to the coffee

headed back to the

Enter title…

her return to dine with him,

he glance up at

estate isn’t

water bottle, her expression

for the

emotion crossed Seth’s brow as he methodically chewed his

down his

explain myself clearly

you’ve

for a sip, “I said

over the same

a napkin, “So

here just on

I have some. I’m on holiday, but you’re busy.

fact, on my way back

saw my dad and changed my mind.

but he could use some company.

prove I’m not

face was impassive, her lips

with her subtle

placed on the question she had left

noon.

he believe it? If not,

twitched in amusement. “If you want to stay, stay.

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

home,

casually took a sip from his water glass.

by his easy acquiescence, but the

even if he disagreed today,

why he

such an easy compromise.

dinner, Seth joined Cicely’s father and grandfather

her what their conversation would be about—nothing

matters.

browsed her shopping app for little

castle LEGO sets, and notebooks with pens. Not

liked doodling when

knocked, the servant opened it to find Charlie, shrouded in

inside. “Ms. Cicely,

glanced at him, “How heartless, sending you out in such cold

the

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

discussing matters. You can

have an errand. Mr. Seth asked me

I’ll be on my way

up, turned around, and noticed

seeing this, quickly directed the servant to

suitcase upstairs.

bidding farewell

glass of milk. After finishing her milk,

upstairs.

those men possibly have to talk

out? The servant had

to

while since she’d indulged in a good

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

a view of the

by rotating ground lights. It seemed they had been turned

especially for her return.

the past, out of boredom, she had

the years, glimpsing at them had become

leaned over the edge of the bathtub, staring at that place for a while.

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

over her eyes.

essential oil dripped into the water, soothing

her eyes, she didn’t move again. She drifted

felt a sudden chill.

skin above the water felt the coolness, and

she reached to remove the towel from her eyes, her hand was caught

away, and she looked up to see the man

side of the tub.

to be the first to drown

it was by the man who had appeared

the room had dissipated

feel cold.

be to blame.” Cicely tried to shake off his grip, but he

and began to undress in a

frowned, “What are you

beat, dropping his clothes into the

else does one do

paused, grabbed the towel beside the tub

step out. Before she could leave, she was

chest and glared up

to do?”

at the woman in his arms, her face

warm bath, more radiant than usual. He smirked, planting a

low and enticing. “Share a shower with

embarrassingly, “You should be

without drowning.”

Compared to her

prickly aura, he preferred her current bold, even

demeanor.

to run his fingers through

hair for

“No.”

spray of the shower interrupted

waited for her consent before turning on the shower. A surge

rose in Cicely, but Seth’s hand covered her

lacked principles, but that

before

still, not moving an inch, as the

away by

arms crossing in front of her, trying to cover

modesty she could.

her hair with

into his chest to rinse

her head lowered and eyes closed, Cicely considered

merit. After all, there were more

fallen for this

he nudged

a quick shower

cool expression,

Are you planning to

there any reason I

it’s quite a trek

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

will.”

anger tinged

lips curled into a smile as he drew closer to her.

earlier is nothing compared to spending a whole night

better.”

can’t sleep by

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

contours of her body.

eyes darkened imperceptibly, and he reached out to

from the shower

closed to prevent water

and cryptic response, which left her

pressing against her

already set the showerhead aside, his hand on

against hers. “We should get out and

tightened, “Let go. I can dry

going

Seth’s lips closed over hers abruptly.

he moved with a familiarity that made it all too

she’d scream out. She hit his shoulder twice, more

“This is

but you seemed not to mind. Though,

to keep it down in

legs was wrapped around his waist, and as

her vision blurred until she was on the

off the hairdryer and slipping her into

She turned away from him, her soft hair spreading

of the

his long arm scooped her into

resist, knowing he’d only persist if

was too exhausted

*

The next day.

Seth was already gone. The patchy marks

with new ones added from

gentle, and protective—or so

to it. Yet now, with her body covered

all too pleased.

freshening up and slipping into her loose loungewear,

she found Creighton

returned from their morning exercise and were

head with a

fix

the servant, sipped half of

couch. “Sleeping in is the best

for your health, and too much sleep

most important meal. Why are you

didn’t you leave

left Cicely speechless

went to the office. Why would I leave

the office, duh! Perfect timing with your holiday.

of ending up

frowned, her face showing clear reluctance.

he didn’t mention

quite good at passing the buck to

really didn’t

genuinely didn’t know, Creighton dropped

with your grandfather to see Danielle.

come?”

onto the couch, resting

posture a blend of

lunch

they were already leaving

Danielle’s name had come up

alone in the hospital while the rest of them sat at

incredibly inappropriate and heartless. After

were set to visit the

Anyone who dared say the Ellis family was

to Danielle would have a problem

for dinner. His timing was

he headed upstairs first, while Cicely sat

going up to her bedroom, where Seth

desk.

to the bathroom, and

a quick shower,

into bed to

seemed like Seth had finished his work.

walked over, brushed her

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

Wait for

horny can you be? It’s been

you up to?”

of teasing, “What makes you

rest tonight?”

what am I

plenty of things we have yet

gently, “Then hurry

away by her, Seth’s

penetrating with

found herself gasping for air. She lifted her hands

a soft whimper. It was only

on her, just barely.

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

Seth off guard with their

“Kiss you to death? I wouldn’t dream

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

of sweet punishment.” “Misunderstood?” Cicely’s drowsy eyes suddenly sharpened as she

face just inches from hers. A gentle smile tinged

warrants a penalty for self-justification, then

me? Shouldn’t I consider

amused expression, yet a chill

me any way

slightly tilted her head, calmly and seriously meeting his gaze.

confident, thinking that because I’m so into you,

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

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

give me

ran her hand across his face, her

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

eyes, Seth felt a subtle stir

gently caressing her smooth chin, “You like

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

it, “But have you ever heard, love and hate are two extremes.

start, the more they might hate them

into Seth’s warm and smiling eyes, but Cicely’s gaze

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

I doubt it will. I wouldn’t choose

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

let go of Cicely’s chin and stood

shirt was already missing two buttons that Cicely

unfastened the rest.

early, so be good and

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

you up my way.”

to find out what his method of waking her might

shower, Cicely was propped up in bed,

game. She glanced at him, then refocused

game.

the phone from

there something you

join me at the office

and

“I don’t know anything about business, what am I supposed

do there?”

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

in the

have

Do you think your dad asking you to learn more

you for

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

now or in the future, your only sure bet is the Ellis

the Ellis family forever. If one

moment and start eating away at

won’t even know where to cry.

you is

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

in your own hands,

“What makes you insecure? You think

you? Or maybe you want

froze. Turning to her, his gazes

chilled further. “It sounds like you’re quite convinced

who leaves a trail of

But beyond these two reasons, is

improve, and he

in their depths replaced by

so quick to assume. In fact, instead of you being unhappy,

reflecting on why I harbor

phone back, “I’ve downloaded some files to your

before sleep, and ask me about

understand tomorrow.”

the document app he had

a blur of text. “What will you

got out of bed, lifting the covers. “I’m not happy

reflect. Naturally, I can’t stay

mood.”

him get up, grab a coat, and

it wasn’t about reflection. The

a tantrum.

＊

stayed in his study for two hours. Approaching

face looking

lights had

the woman sleeping with the phone in her arms, his

reignited.

Heartless woman.

the phone from

she hadn’t closed.

opened for her before leaving. He then looked at

sleeping face and

rush to

phone and tossing it aside, he watched

face cold as he pulled

to the man’s arms and scent, shifted

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

Seth wanted to wake her up,

one sentence, she fell silent again, and any

petty.

＊

the next morning, he woke Cicely with

of strong coffee. Even for school,

Already prone to morning grumpiness, she was even more

robbed of breath.

him hard a couple

mind?!”

swung

off to the

going.” Cicely yanked

your face.” Seth’s voice carried

Cicely didn’t budge.

you really gonna make me do this

the comforter off with a huff, sat up,

what strength could she

pillow at

the pillow barely

this, I’m not

up the pillow, and placed it back on the

If I don’t see you up by the time I’m out, I’ll

wake you up

back to sleep.”

gritted her teeth in frustration. As Seth turned away, the corners of

a sly

covers aside and stomped

toothpaste onto

reflection in the mirror.

a subtle raise of his eyebrows, he shifted

approached, took her brush, and Seth, as if on cue, applied

glanced at their reflection.

aside.

her task, she started brushing. It was not like she

something as simple as toothpaste. The frothy white

the slight smile of

they headed to the

from last night did

to know anything.

am I supposed

just smiled

Cicely understood why he hadn’t mentioned

prepared a new desk and

immediate deployment.

computer; you can keep

face away, “Computers have

excuse, “There are

no matter

she moved

pile of folders.

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

will you

a

frowned, “You’re leaving

there wolves in

reading; I’ll be

retort but held back.

at her before

been darting around, a clear sign she

she possibly stir up in the

did take the documents seriously for a

plenty of marks with her pen, but within half

her

the office, returning after another half-hour to

rummaged through the drawers, fiddled with

doodled on a black leather notebook she

played with her phone and

and the

before noon. Cicely sat there, the picture of

student.

you get

new to me, so

morning and you’re

stung.

fact that I’m even sitting here is a

noticing the black notebook she had

open, he found her doodles—a

a

and flushed slightly,

nonchalance.

and took a deep breath, “Anything

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

away. Seth waited

as if it justified

pinched the bridge of his nose and sank into his chair. “Lunch

Come over here.”

No complaints

she grudgingly clutched the files and

him, his long arm pulled her into an embrace. “What

an office,” Cicely said, leaning

grip tightened around her waist, his voice deep and

one taking liberties here,

“What do you mean?”

in the day, you’d concoct all kinds

to tutor you. Sweet and respectful. Now,

attitude.

is?”

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

it’s intentional,

reeked of impunity, but Seth had no

feel like harboring intentions

current relationship, that would mean cheating, Mr.

Seth was momentarily speechless.

smiled, “What’s

me, it’s to your

away and leaned back in his chair, turning

expression and voice

Cicely watched him—

man was annoyed

fetched by Charlie from a

to have no

“Aren’t you eating?”

drowned out by the

flat “Not hungry.” His mood

with the unmistakable vibe of ‘he’s upset,

a big deal’.

me to eat all this by myself?” she asked, her

a table laden with food, while

her way.

leave it. Nobody said you had

eyes and huffed, “Then I guess

tonight.”

looked up at her with an icy

settled onto the couch and picked

said we have to sleep together every night. If

until

face was stoic, “How long are

attitude with me?”

innocent, “Isn’t it you who’s been

want to keep butting

on her silverware tightened before relaxing.

to watch

with me, and I’ll sleep with

Seth fell silent.

*

the Ellis Corporation since the afternoon, holding

stayed in his

to slack off, but under Seth’s watchful eye, that wasn’t

summoning various department heads for

progress reviews, the office atmosphere

the well-known heiress of the Ellis family, even if it

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

end of the workday approached, Cicely found most of

the department leaders’ trembling, overly respectful demeanors

hadn’t made much progress with

hadn’t commented on it.

for a bit. Mom’s shopping nearby, and

in a while.”

should probably let my

need, I’ve

murmured an acknowledgment and moved to the door to put on her

claim Cicely wasn’t the

to it, Cicely

as they come. If Patty was in

bit more. If not, best to steer clear.

wasn’t her biggest

and naturally, Cicely wasn’t

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

around Seth’s.

them some tea and

Enter title…

call and

Cicely. He took a sip of warm water from his

minutes of silence, Seth broke the ice. “Spit

fascinating about my face?”d2

always been told if she didn’t

But with him always buzzing around, she never did.

even mentioned

of her hair, her palm warming

overheard General Manager from

was talking about this new mechanical equipment

to knock the socks off the old models.

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

a point. Instead of bidding

the deal over to Diaz International? Given the ties between

Ellis family, why haven’t you considered

“The big fish like the Harper family,

all eyeing the Ellis project. Diaz International doesn’t have

Ellis family’s

what? If the Ellis family picks Diaz International, the rest

would kill for

not up for it, or do you just chicken out

Watsons? Or is it just that you flat-out don’t

with the Ellis family?”

interim head of the Ellis Corporation, I

Watsons are all more fitting partners than Diaz International. And

to work with the Ellis family,

Corporation to make things easier for

stance. “What’s

what counts. Why sweat the

pride for you,

into a half-smile. “Is there

take the big

fries. What’s the point of running Diaz International? Might as well let

way, you wouldn’t have to worry about any

actually a pretty

about it, the more feasible it

eyes

silence, Cicely propped her chin

with

you in the Ellis family? Or, you

and I’ll cut you in on a slice of

How about

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

in Diaz International?”

“Just occurred to me, if there’s anything on this

matters to you besides your mother, it’s probably Diaz International, left

know, I’ve been thinking that I

gives me an edge over you.

might just be it.”

meaningful and unfathomable as he watched

Diaz International.

on the sofa, with a carefree smile on her

to let it

tightened, clearly displeased

thinly. “Then

Ellis family banner the

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

a familiar tone that belonged

her mug, then switched on her charm

her, her face a stormy mix of

wariness.

just thinking out loud. Then I figured

the Ellis family ain’t too shabby, right? Especially

soon. No need to

“The future is the future. You

even think about laying

International.”

eyes carrying

If Patty wasn’t bringing it up,

Seth had already stood up, his expression far from

go.”

at Cicely, probably mindful

as if forcefully suppressing

they had dinner at the Diaz residence, but Cicely felt

the real way to make her

night was out

the drive back to the Ellis residence, Seth

“Where are you off

“Same as today.”

alone in the

I’m there, I’ll disturb

the car window, twirling a strand of

her slender finger.

for a few

half-smile, “Should I prepare some new

you?”

“No

Seth fell silent.

the butler welcomed them

you today; they’ve been temporarily

open them now, I can bring them out for

her shoes and said, “Well, bring

packages. Cicely sat cross-legged in the living

started to slice open the parcels with

knife.

items – mugs, thermos cups, small

only unpacked them but also studied them. Her demeanor

many times

when she read documents.

down to find Cicely

freshen up; we’re up

up and handed him a white travel tumbler.

it—it had a notable heft, and engraved on

beneath. Beside her was a matching

and name. The rest of the items were pairs,

light.

made you think of buying

did I realize

and it feels

in the

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

urged her to get

seeing the white tumbler in

contentedly.

dropping her at the Ellis estate and setting the staff to work,

still scattered, but after reviewing a

were much the same

department heads yesterday.

paced the office, and

knock on the door.

with parcels. “Ms. Cicely, these parcels, they’re

addressed to you.”

perked up at the

in Seth’s chair, she resumed her task

to an office transformed. His desk now

new pen holder, several

couple of notebooks.

the corner mirrored his, albeit with

cushion

had even appeared on the coffee table. He

question the wisdom of leaving her alone in the

she’d done nothing out of the

“What’s for lunch

countered, “How much work did you get

hesitantly added a

tapped a few keys on the computer, bringing up a video of

of Cicely’s boredom—and her interest

everything but work.

No surprise there.

was silent, and Cicely, unaware of its contents,

upward. “I’m hungry,” she stated,

closed the video.

came closer, seeing a screen full of text. Seth looked at

the whole morning reviewing

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

drifted over the new objects on the desk,

reward, I’ll take you out for

of escaping the office for a meal

*

Seth stayed at

summoning staff for reports

several days, and even if Cicely wasn’t

affairs, she

time for the company’s annual

a hectic affair.

International, and C&P were

at the

twenty-six-story towers, linked by sky bridges. The topfloor ballrooms were split

the south, the other north,

was just below Diaz International’s—a floor

with the Ellis Corporation.

was dressed in a silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress

of silver high-heeled shoes, and although

others, she still stood out as the most eyecatching in the dazzling

Cicely

simple in design,

her side was distractingly

onlookers to look away. Cicely had

the Diaz International gala to make the

expected pleasantries, to

her away to

orchestrated

father present, the spotlight

Cicely’s arrival at the

almost like a bride and groom

receiving blessings and

Cicely mused aloud, “Isn’t

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

care of it,”

her hand, Cicely teased with a

a lot of

glanced at her coolly, “And plenty of

to take a

a snort, Seth retorted, “If your intentions weren’t so

have considered it.”

just want to

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

personal viewing.”

serious about skipping the C&P gala. Cicely understood

profile there, and even more so

its grand slam

was the envy of

to Seth was

man, unwilling to waste time

ingratiate themselves with him.

was a magnet for journalists, both overt and

C&P event was

away. However, not long after, Charlie hurriedly arrived, lowering his

Seth.”Mr. Diaz, Ray got drunk

commotion over

and his demeanor darkened. As he stood

wrist,

back soon,” he said, squeezing

before following Charlie out.

he was out of

slouched on the steps

nearly finished bottle of hard liquor.

Seth with a sneer,

feet and

syllable

with venom.

flashing a thumbs-up

play hardball. I’ve seen just how

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

family never provoked you; we were

we

anticipated such drama on the eve of

air,

tactics, about

a whim because Ray had once made an indecent

had incensed him

against Ray .

course, some speculated that it had been a premeditated

seemed to

a shareholder in your

this place immediately.” Seth said

had surrendered their shares when Ray’s family had dispersed, except

from a hospital stay,

ten percent.

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

is your Diaz International event. I can’t do anything at my

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

you. You destroyed my company, so tell me, wouldn’t it be fitting if

ruined Diaz International, let you

today?”

Ray with icy detachment, “If you couldn’t

makes you think you

the last

the drunken stupor in his eyes,

he looked as if he might lunge at Seth in a

vengeful fury.

of whiskey onto the table next

sharp shards scattering across the

glass pierced through

to skip

high heels a clumsy match

jagged remains of the bottle

let out a breathless shout. Disregarding

dashed forward, pulling Seth’s

half a circle to avoid

to Seth, her body

red blood fell onto Seth’s

appeared in his arms seemed about to fall out of his

moment.

collective gasp reverberated

who hadn’t expected Cicely to intervene, felt

on

arm stood out, and his face, usually cool

bloodied sword blade, seething with a murderous aura

glared at Ray.

Cicely’s arm

gripped his clothes tightly,

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

tall.

gaze softened as it

Cicely slapped him.

drunk and not thinking straight. Have you had too much

do you think provoking him will do you

you?!”

her voice carried

clear tremble.

seemed to stem from the physical reaction

her eyes made it clear to him—she

anger,

his heart as he surveyed her

a clear cut on her right arm.

else are you

and

restlessness swirled within Seth. He

voice, “Talk to

last ounce of self-control seemed to crumble under Seth’s

converged and

down her face. “My… my ankle hurts,”

in her last desperate

high heels and, with a grimace, bent

his arms.

had been tackled to the ground by Charlie, who had

a knee on

right beside Seth and was

panicked cry had caused him a moment’s

had swung

he acted swiftly, Cicely had been cut on

away, Ray, pinned

Seth’s

so damn arrogant. One day, you’ll pay for everything

done!”

falter in his

*

injuries, Erik and Creighton rushed to the

frenzy.

ankle and a two-centimeter laceration on her

shallow, but not too

had already been treated, her

eyes were red and

Erik and Creighton, she greeted them with a tearful

“Dad.”

had just ended a phone call and

station for the time being. Seth gave a brief nod to the Erik and Creighton.

their concern

which

known a day of hardship in her life, and just a few

the new year, this happens! Seth,

interjected, “it’s not his

and followed

her a glare. “Am I not allowed to speak

Enter title…

hurt if you scold him,

pain stop, then go

said, cutting himself off mid-sentence.

his words were

could he not see through her

hair somewhat disheveled but still

when

shield him with her

Totally unexpected.

now took on

he could process these swirling emotions, the doctor’s

to the doctor, then stepped

eyes and pursed

she lifted her arms and wrapped them

under her knees, lifting

silent understanding brought a slight sense

watching.

Seth back to the

and returning to the Ellis

she had never mentioned

the gala, Seth stayed at

Cicely company.

the restroom, washing up – any time Cicely needed to move,

her, never leaving her side.

Seth was impeccable in

complaint-free actions were bittersweet for

from the bathroom to the bed where the

waiting.

bandaging process, despite the doctor’s caution, some

and Cicely would wince.

man beside her, who seemed to make the

as tense

sitting with Creighton that lasted more

turned to

and bored in her room, insisted Seth take

even if it was just to the living room or the study. So

most

had heard them talk about the mechanical manufacturing

family.

had postponed the deal which

year to after

asked Seth if Diaz International was interested

was the same as it had been initially

Creighton didn’t dwell on

on to other matters.

wasn’t interested in company affairs, she

voice and being able to

just before the new year. After all,

been injured protecting

on airs at this time. But Patty’s

on previous

prepared a lavish dinner for

table, she brought up the topic of the New Year’s

Cicely back to

Patty’s mood didn’t match the generosity

were legally

the most appropriate and normal thing

a moment, glanced at the young

somewhat absent-mindedly.

felt a

days when she was not at home, the

Just as she had returned to spend a few days, the New Year, a

gatherings, would leave him

*

Eve, Seth

residence.

them to pick

Creighton agreed that leaving Danielle alone in the hospital over

Year was too heartless. After negotiating with

to bring

the image of two

at each other, feels sad just

Danielle might liven things up, serving as

again, the thought of Danielle’s haughty,

that it might

had been bustling since

home for the New Year’s Eve

sumptuous feast knowing Miss Danielle

Creighton didn’t find anyone at the

who should

face

chatting happily with Danielle. When

for a moment, but then

smiling.

wheelchair, also

two. A shadow crossed her face, but she

way she said that made

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

onto the couch. His voice was as flat as the

storm.

hands clasped tightly, not saying

her all alone in the hospital

holidays, could we?”

rising in her chest, but she fought to keep

her best not to let her emotions

who applied for her discharge. If anyone was going

been the Ellis family.

gaze landed on Danielle. “Patty is being polite, but don’t you even

ashamed?”

more mortified after that

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

barely able to contain her fury. “The

herself injured saving

repay. What’s wrong with

her every single

sneer. “By that logic, any woman

stage an accident and play the damsel in distress. Wouldn’t

Ellis family’s dinners even

anger, and she whirled to glare at Seth,

finger pointed at Cicely. “This is

desperate for a mother figure that you have to bring home a woman

her?”

furrowed her brows. “Patty, don’t

you who’s making

“You…”

deep voice cut through the

gaze, which had been light and smiling, settled on

as she quietly awaited

to celebrate, not

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