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.

know. Getting angry

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

Enter title…

at her coldly and then let out

for life, you’ll never be able to

off.”d2

as she looked

gave a faint smile. “How shameless are

for you, even if you wish for a life of disability, the Ellis

will Seth. Even blood

think you are in Seth’s

or four decades to live? How

in and day out? Or rather, do you think Seth could ever

someone disabled?”

lips trembled violently as she glared

her most

you’re off the hook just because you’re

dream of running away. You were so

from your grave

Maybe if you get better soon,

me

her teeth, Danielle eyed the neatly laid out food before

icy, detached voice rang out

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

over and over until you’re willing to eat, that’s if

annoying.”

her arm began to lift, it froze in place.

Cicely would win.

ruining my appetite. Please,

standing by. “Keep an

she eats or

“Understood.”

a deep

at her again, turning towards the door to leave.

take two steps, the door swung open from

paused, her expression darkening as the man

sight of Cicely brought a

just returned from the

front of Cicely.

her

opened the door. She reached

Ray, feeling

face stiffened, his teeth clenched as he

mixed with rage.

don’t you think you’re misdirecting

advantage of

to settle that score yet, and

castrated you myself.”

hit

Ray stammered, “Seth never told

night?”

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

raped me?”

smile, she added, “I’m

regret it. Let’s put our grievances aside for now.

straight. It was your drunken

this mess, not anyone else’s doing. Ms. Danielle is the

Let’s not make her situation

the exchange, could hardly believe the

expression flustered, “I’m

Of course, I know

that so?” Cicely nodded with a

cleared up, I’ll take my

left the hospital room. “Ray

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

by yesterday, but I

bag in her hands until her

again brought back the chaos of that night, the

so vivid and terrifying that even

shudder.

“Miss?”

“It seems Mr. Ray is quite

rich playboy, surrounded by a constant stream

suddenly proclaiming true feelings for

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

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

Danielle. It’s clear she means a lot

this accident was orchestrated by his family for her

at the

much he’d nearly get her killed? That

*

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

I had no idea it would turn out

Ray any more attention

fork clumsily, she shoveled food into her mouth with

indifference.

Regardless of the tactics used,

not looking up from her plate.

him now, and your family is

for a comeback, but now, you guys

blown it for good.”

clenched so tight his knuckles were

forehead. “He orchestrated the downfall of my family from

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

My dad said

agency, he had his sights set on bringing

a

these things to make

delivered a fatal blow. He played innocent

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

and if Cicely hadn’t shown

at the receiving end

She had pondered this question before, but

it. She didn’t want

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

you wouldn’t believe it,

with the doctors about your condition,

a rough road ahead. I came here today to

ask you

up, her voice restrained and flat. “Go

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

to save him, or was it just a

turned to look

only desire

“It’s different.

father to be so obstinate. If you knew the

you still have

fork down and looked up at

answer are

pressed his lips together. “You should

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

quietly. “I didn’t expect you

If I had died, what would be the

not, that’s the answer I needed

have to play the villain in front of me

it’s like

I would, but since I can’t, I need to

this composed yet

She was afraid

telling what

to.

*

out of the elevator on the ground floor, only to

standing across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

imperceptibly when he

purse slackened for a moment then tightened.

familiar, faint smile

heavy. “You hate hospitals. What are

had another episode. Came to

admitted. After a brief silence, she glanced at him

bullying a

here not long after Cicely

what Seth was

behalf to check on Miss

She thought it

gaze faltered for

neck,

corners of her

volatile, and your

even leading to harm.”

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

could hurt me when I’m

“The sooner she recovers, the

ties with her.”

into the

why I braved the disgust

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

the more she displayed it, the clearer Seth could sense

sarcasm and rebellion.

Seth reached out to pull her

learned just a week

Cicely stepped aside, avoiding his touch. “Whether I have

time to join me. And as it

sharing a meal

blunt

question

looked up to find the woman

leave room for an answer, as if the question itself had

conclusion in

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

into the car and pondered for a moment, her

Dad at the

“Alright.”

the car rolled through the gates of the

the sprawling manor, feeling an unexpected sense

pines stood tall but failed to bring

vitality.

and

the car and walked towards

empty, with servants occasionally moving about in

seemed to be

over at the sound of her arrival, a look of surprise on

us a heads

upstairs,

and was reading in

he’s fallen asleep.”

he have

some

up the stairs, turning to look at Brody from

step, “And what else?”

“There were a couple of

as she turned and headed straight

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

of the brownish buckwheat wraps

light salad of carrots and celery, the other a

of ham and cheese.

back of a nearby chair, she lifted her gaze to the

you prepared for

to reply, their

Brody said helplessly, “Sir has been

specifically asked for these dishes.

touch them. Elderly folks’ meals are quite

sir says there’s no need to cook so

enough not to doubt his words, but in

was

she found Creighton slumped in

on his chest, his head tilted, seemingly

and her eyes

estate now had but one master. That grand

corner for

in love, insisting on living

father alone in the

blamed herself deeply in her

wake Creighton, gently covering him with a

out of the study.

from his nap and

his face lit up with an unmistakable

little rascal, why didn’t you tell

to hide

“You’re not fighting

could there be so many quarrels?” Cicely laughed,

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

the home-cooked meals. Dad, how

over for

nodded, “You’ll have to ask him. He

to me.”

I’ll talk

Creighton for the rest of

chess, playfully demanding

amused and exasperated.

arrived, father and son squared off while she placed bets and

occasionally chiming in with

is golden; don’t meddle in the

was lively and bustling, and even

family seemed to have returned to how it used

be.

dinner, Creighton inquired

he was too busy to make it back. Creighton

you two really

“Just hope for us to be alright, will

Creighton relented.

Cicely still sent Seth a message. [I’m

coming home tonight.]

create a dramatic runaway

home. After all, she couldn’t let Grandpa and

anything amiss.

and she

showed up at the Ellis estate’s

assist Seth with

message imply for me

the rack, her voice

know.”

it’s unavoidable, there’s no reason for a married couple to

as an invitation for us to

pulled

the living room.

couple’s closeness, smiled,

hard these past few days, have you

“Not yet.”

have the staff whip up a few dishes. Cicely,

were all tailored to his

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

of her father and Seth in

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

in, “You two

a deep breath, “Just came out to

way over to the coffee

to the

Enter title…

to have anticipated her return to dine with him, and only

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

family estate isn’t as cozy

her expression nonchalant. “There’s

here for the

of emotion crossed Seth’s brow as he methodically chewed

set down

not explain myself

you’ve

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

wasting time over the same person or

with a napkin,

back here just on

on a reason, I have some. I’m on

short on time. In fact, on my

my dad and

for me, but he could use some company. Are these reasons

prove I’m not

impassive, her lips curled in an almost imperceptible

part, coupled with her

answer had been placed on the question

noon.

believe it? If not, she would prove

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

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

home,

from his water

his easy acquiescence,

disagreed today, it wouldn’t

why he mentioned

such an easy compromise.

dinner, Seth joined Cicely’s father and grandfather in the study. It

conversation would be about—nothing but

matters.

her shopping app for little home

and notebooks with

but she liked doodling

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

frost, stepping inside. “Ms. Cicely, good

him, “How heartless, sending you out in such

the night

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

discussing matters. You can sit and

have an errand. Mr. Seth asked me to bring some

be on my

finally looked up, turned around, and noticed a

Brody, seeing this, quickly directed

suitcase upstairs.

didn’t linger, bidding

brought up a glass of milk.

upstairs.

to talk

had refilled their water several

to the bathroom where the

It had been a while since she’d indulged in a good soak.

slid into the tub and let out a sigh

a view of the garden and a

It seemed

especially for her return.

boredom, she had asked her father to install

glimpsing at them had become a habit

edge of the bathtub, staring at that place for a

the tub, twisted a hot towel, and

over her eyes.

water,

move again. She drifted

felt a sudden chill.

water felt the coolness, and she instinctively slid down a

remove the towel from her eyes, her hand was caught midair, and she was lifted

up to see the man frowning at her from

side of the tub.

be the first

but it was by the man who had

warmth of the room had dissipated when he entered, making

feel cold.

tried to shake off his grip, but he let

next to her and began to

frowned, “What are you

missing a beat, dropping his clothes into

else does one do in a

towel beside the tub to cover herself,

she was scooped

chest and glared up at him. “Seth! What are

to do?”

down at the woman in his arms,

bath, more radiant than usual. He smirked, planting

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

deflated embarrassingly, “You

without drowning.”

to her

aura, he preferred her

demeanor.

he began to run his fingers through

your hair for

“No.”

of the shower interrupted Cicely’s

for her consent before turning on the shower. A surge

Seth’s hand covered her eyes. “Close

Cicely lacked principles, but that this man had a hundred

anger before it even took

an inch, as the towel she’d wrapped around

away by

awkward, her arms crossing in front of her, trying

modesty she could.

lathered shampoo into her hair with patience, massaging her scalp

chest to rinse it clean with

closed, Cicely considered that her

without merit. After all, there

fallen for this

applied conditioner to her hair, he nudged her toward the wall to

he took a quick

him with a cool expression, Cicely asked,

you planning to

there any reason

it’s quite a

here. I

will.”

flicker of anger tinged Cicely’s

lips curled into a smile as he drew closer to her. “It’s okay. Waking

hour earlier is nothing compared to spending a whole night alone.

better.”

sleep

leisurely

contours of her body.

darkened imperceptibly, and he reached out

water from the shower cascading over

her eyes closed to prevent water from flowing

his succinct and

insistent pressing

realization, Seth had already set the showerhead aside, his

hers. “We should get out and dry your

voice tightened, “Let go. I can dry it

not going out just

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

apart, and he moved with a familiarity that made it

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

than pain. “This is the Ellis

you seemed not

to keep it down in

was wrapped around his waist, and as the room

she was on the

and slipping her into pajamas, Seth placed

turned away from him, her soft hair spreading

of the bed, facing her. As she

long arm scooped her into his embrace.

he’d

was too exhausted

*

The next day.

Seth was already gone.

with new ones added from last

protective—or so he seemed. Any

tend to it. Yet now, with her body covered

all too pleased.

into her loose

listless, she found Creighton and

exercise and were

Cicely, Creighton shook his head with a mix

really should fix that habit of skipping

servant, sipped half of it, and slumped

in is the best

for your

most important meal.

you leave

irritation left Cicely speechless for

the office. Why would

your holiday. You could learn

instead of ending up clueless. What? Didn’t

clear reluctance.

why he didn’t

at passing

he really

know, Creighton

the hospital with your grandfather to see Danielle. You want

come?”

the couch,

of elegance and

have lunch by yourself at

returned, and they were

come up

as if leaving her alone in the hospital while the rest of them

was incredibly inappropriate and heartless.

visit the

Anyone who dared say

would have

returned in time for dinner.

while Cicely

her

desk.

a word, she went to the bathroom, and upon entering, she locked

her. After a quick shower, she emerged to find Seth still

into bed to play with her

had finished his work. He stood up, saw

the bed, walked over, brushed her forehead with

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

for me,

horny can you be? It’s been days on

you up to?”

a hint of teasing,

rest tonight?”

what am I

chuckled, “Mrs. Diaz, there are plenty of things we have yet to

pushed him gently, “Then hurry up

pushed away by her, Seth’s body pressed

with unrestrained

found herself gasping for air. She

his shoulders, letting out a soft whimper. It was

on her, just barely.

to death?” she managed to say between

with their

to death? I wouldn’t dream of it. But

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

punishment.” “Misunderstood?” Cicely’s drowsy eyes suddenly

handsome face just inches from hers. A gentle smile tinged

warrants a penalty for self-justification, then

Shouldn’t I consider how to punish

the same amused expression, yet a

Punish me any way

head, calmly and seriously

because I’m

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

her beautifully curved jawline,

heart to give me

her hand across his

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

the emotion in her eyes, Seth felt

chin,

“Mm-hmm.” Her hand moved from his

with it, “But have you ever heard, love and hate

start, the more they might hate

and smiling eyes, but

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

comes, which I doubt it will. I wouldn’t choose

his dark eyes fixed on Cicely for

he cracked a faint smile. He let go of Cicely’s chin and stood

was already missing two buttons that Cicely

unfastened the rest.

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

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

you up my way.”

desire to find out what his method

Seth emerged from the shower, Cicely was

game. She glanced at him, then refocused on the

game.

snatched the phone

“Is there something you need

join me at the office

swiped and tapped

know anything about business, what

do there?”

need to

in

have to

Do you think

you for no

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

in the future, your only sure bet is

Ellis family forever. If one

moment and start eating away at you, swallowing

even know where to cry. Don’t

around you is

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

when truly in your own hands,

quietly, “What makes you insecure? You think one

you want to leave me one day

her, his gazes

further. “It sounds like

leaves a trail of

just saying. But beyond these two reasons, is

improve,

shifted, the shadow in their depths replaced by a shallow

quick to assume. In fact, instead of you being

why I

downloaded some files

you can before sleep, and ask me about

understand tomorrow.”

document app he had just downloaded for her

a blur of text. “What will

of bed, lifting the covers. “I’m not

need to reflect. Naturally, I can’t stay

mood.”

coat, and walk out. Her face

wasn’t about reflection.

a tantrum.

＊

study for two

looking worse than

lights had

with the phone in

reignited.

Heartless woman.

phone from her

she hadn’t closed.

the same one he’d opened for her before leaving.

sleeping face

a rush to find her

it aside, he

as he

man’s arms and scent,

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

moment, Seth wanted to wake her up, maybe keep

she fell silent again, and any further pursuit would

petty.

＊

woke Cicely with a kiss that was

than a cup of strong coffee. Even

Already prone to morning grumpiness, she was even

robbed of breath.

she kicked him hard a couple of times. “Are you out

mind?!”

mischievous grin as he swung his legs out of

shine, off to

not going.” Cicely yanked the comforter over her head

your face.” Seth’s voice carried

Cicely didn’t budge.

you really gonna make me do this

off with

at him, but what strength could she muster just out

a pillow at

was close by, and the pillow barely

so over this, I’m

picked up the pillow, and placed it back on the bed,

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

don’t want me to wake you up for the second time,

back to sleep.”

in frustration. As Seth turned away, the corners

a sly

aside and stomped off to the bathroom,

squeezing toothpaste onto

reflection in the mirror.

eyebrows, he

brush, and Seth, as if

She glanced at their reflection. Seth nonchalantly

aside.

started brushing. It was not like

as simple as toothpaste.

slight smile of her

to the

document from last night did you read?” Seth pretended

to know anything.

two pages. So what am I supposed

just smiled and didn’t

office, Cicely understood why he hadn’t mentioned coming

had prepared a new desk and chair in

immediate deployment.

the computer; you can keep

her face away,

this excuse, “There

like no matter

answer for it. Reluctantly, she moved to

pile of folders.

understand, and

you be

a C&P

leaving

in

the reading; I’ll be back

to retort but held back. “Just

her before

eyes had been darting around, a clear

possibly stir up in the

did take the documents seriously for

pen, but

and her

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

drawers,

a pen and doodled on a black leather notebook she

with her phone and then, noticing the time, went back

desk and

before noon. Cicely sat there, the

student.

much did you get through?”

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

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

stung.

bristled, “Mr. Diaz, the fact that I’m even sitting here is a

approached his desk, noticing the black

found her doodles—a passable cartoon portrait,

in a confident,

saw her ‘artwork’ and flushed slightly, but quickly adopted

nonchalance.

pursed his lips and took a

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

Cicely tidied the documents away. Seth waited for an

declared as if it justified

sank into

Come over here.”

prepared? No

clutched the files and approached him. Before

his long arm pulled her into an embrace. “What

an office,” Cicely said, leaning back

waist, his voice

taking

“What do you mean?”

in the day, you’d concoct all kinds of schemes to

respectful. Now, you

half-hearted attitude.

is?”

arched an eyebrow, “Respectful? That’s

you, and it’s

impunity, but Seth

harboring intentions

our current relationship, that would mean

Seth was momentarily speechless.

smiled, “What’s

it’s to

her away and leaned back in his chair, turning

his expression and voice

Cicely watched him—

man was annoyed

fetched by Charlie from a local diner, indeed Cicely’s favorite.

no intention of joining

“Aren’t you eating?”

was drowned out by

hungry.” His mood was

the unmistakable

a big deal’.

all this by myself?” she

a table laden with food, while

her way.

leave it. Nobody said you had to finish

“Then I guess you’ll be

tonight.”

at her

the couch and picked up the elegantly wrapped

we have to sleep together every night. If

until you’re

stoic, “How long

attitude with me?”

innocent, “Isn’t it

want to keep butting heads with

her silverware tightened before

to watch

me, and I’ll

Seth fell silent.

*

the Ellis Corporation since the

had stayed in his

to slack off, but under Seth’s watchful eye,

with him summoning various department

reports and progress reviews, the office atmosphere

Ellis family, even if it was just

she couldn’t afford to be

of the workday approached, Cicely found most of her

leaders’ trembling, overly respectful

hadn’t made much

hadn’t commented on it.

a bit. Mom’s shopping

in a while.”

“I should probably

I’ve already

moved to the door

yetTo claim Cicely wasn’t the least bit fazed about meeting with Patty would

when it came down to it, Cicely knew she had

as they come. If Patty was

not, best to steer clear. It wasn’t like it was

wasn’t her biggest

and naturally, Cicely wasn’t about

waiting by the door. She cozied up in the

around Seth’s.

receptionist quickly offered them

Enter title…

call and returned after a

sip of

silence, Seth broke the ice.

fascinating about my face?”d2

grimaced. She’d always been told if she didn’t understand

could ask him. But with him always buzzing around, she never

even mentioned anything

of her hair, her palm

overheard

talking about this new mechanical equipment

old models. We could corner the

The Ellis family has the know-how

a point. Instead of bidding and

deal over to Diaz International? Given the ties

Ellis family, why haven’t you

expression was cold. “The big fish like the Harper

all eyeing the Ellis project.

Ellis family’s offer just

family picks Diaz International,

and watch. Seth, so many would kill for

up for it, or do you just chicken out when you see the

or the Watsons? Or is it just that you flat-out

with the Ellis family?”

of the Ellis Corporation, I can say

more fitting partners than

Ellis family, are

to make

his stance. “What’s wrong with that? As

bottom line is what counts. Why sweat the small stuff? If

pride for you,

a half-smile. “Is there a

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

point of running Diaz International? Might as well let

up. That way, you wouldn’t have to worry

that’s actually

it, the

his eyes but said

her chin in her

with that?

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

cut you

How about

her coolly. “What’s all

in Diaz International?”

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

your mother, it’s probably Diaz International, left

father. You know, I’ve been thinking that I don’t really

sleeve that gives me an edge over you. But Diaz

might just be it.”

meaningful and unfathomable as he watched her.

last bit of Diaz International. So what if I

with a carefree

time to let

lips tightened, clearly displeased with her

thinly. “Then isn’t my

under the Ellis

Diaz International ever do to tick you off?”

familiar tone that

glanced at her mug, then switched on her charm

her, her face a stormy mix

wariness.

I figured it wasn’t such a bad idea

too shabby, right? Especially since we

soon. No need to

the future. You bite off only as much as

a heads-up, don’t even think about laying a

International.”

an eyebrow, her eyes carrying a mild,

Patty wasn’t bringing

since Seth had already stood up, his expression

go.”

probably mindful

suppressing a multitude of

had dinner at the Diaz residence, but Cicely

be the real way to make her

night was out

residence, Seth took the wheel while

are you off

“Same as today.”

alone in

I’ll disturb your

car window, twirling

her slender finger.

a few seconds before slowly

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

you?”

shook her head, “No need, I’ve

Seth fell silent.

them respectfully. “Miss, we

for you today; they’ve been

them now, I can bring them out

her shoes and said, “Well, bring

Cicely sat cross-legged

a waterproof mat and started to slice open the parcels with

knife.

items – mugs, thermos cups, small decorations

not only unpacked them but also studied them. Her demeanor

times more

when she read documents.

Seth showered, he came down to

freshen up; we’re up early

up and handed him a white travel

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

Beside her was a matching black one,

The rest of the items were pairs, hers in

light.

think of buying

I realize there are no traces of you

and it

still engrossed in the small items, her tone and

natural thing in the world. Seth didn’t

her to

morning, seeing the white tumbler in the car, Cicely

contentedly.

estate and setting the staff to

still scattered, but after reviewing a

were much the same as what she’d

department heads yesterday.

set the paperwork aside, paced the office, and then there was

knock on the door.

laden with parcels. “Ms. Cicely, these

addressed to you.”

perked up at the

chair, she resumed her task with the craft

Seth returned to an office transformed. His desk

a new pen holder, several

couple of notebooks.

in the corner mirrored his, albeit with a simpler color

with a cushion on

bouquet of flowers had even appeared

question the wisdom of leaving her

nothing out of the

for

work did you

fingers, then hesitantly added a fourth,

keys on the computer, bringing

bit of

everything but work.

No surprise there.

Cicely, unaware

she

closed the video.

screen full of text. Seth looked at her,

today, spent the whole morning reviewing

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

gaze drifted over the new objects on the desk, and he

reward, I’ll take you out for

of escaping the office for

*

Seth stayed at the

for

and

company affairs, she couldn’t help but be

it was time for the company’s annual

a hectic affair.

Corporation, Diaz International, and C&P

at the same hotel, for

towers, linked by sky bridges. The topfloor ballrooms were split between

the south, the other north, distinctly

Diaz

with the Ellis Corporation.

silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress with the

knee. She wore a pair of silver high-heeled shoes,

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

of her birth, Cicely seemed

simple in

side was

for onlookers to look away.

had brought her to the Diaz International gala to make

the expected pleasantries, to clink glasses and

whisking her away

was orchestrated by Seth’s people,

the

arrival at the Ellis Corporation gala, they

flurry of toasts and well-wishes, almost like a bride

receiving

Cicely mused aloud, “Isn’t

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

others are taking care of

her chin in her hand, Cicely teased with a mischievous smile,

are a lot of celebrity

coolly, “And plenty

to

your intentions weren’t so

have considered it.”

want to admire the

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

personal viewing.”

serious about skipping the C&P gala.

to keep a low profile there, and even

after its grand slam start and

envy of many. Naturally, the number

cozy up to Seth was

unwilling to waste time on those trying

ingratiate themselves with him.

a magnet for journalists, both overt and

C&P event was deliberate, with plenty of reasons

long after,

Seth.”Mr. Diaz, Ray got drunk at the C&P gala

a commotion over

darkened. As he stood to leave,

his wrist, “What’s

put, I’ll be back soon,” he

before following Charlie out.

was out of sight, then

slouched on the steps of

of hard liquor. His face flushed

greeted Seth with a sneer, using the

to his feet

slurred, emphasizing each syllable with

venom. “You’re

laughed coldly, flashing a thumbs-up

I’ve seen just how ruthless you can be.

the victor who writes history, that I can’t

My family never provoked you; we were

what the we had, you seized my family’s

drama on the eve of their

in the air, the implications

about Seth’s tactics, about

Ray had once made an

Seth’s fiancée, this had incensed

against Ray .

it had been a premeditated strike.

to confirm the

you are still a shareholder in your family business, my suggestion is

this place immediately.”

when Ray’s

waking from a hospital stay,

ten percent.

I know this isn’t my

International event. I can’t do

I can’t tarnish it. Just

destroyed my company, so tell me,

ruined Diaz International, let you taste the

today?”

with icy detachment, “If you couldn’t even

makes you think you can destroy

away the last shred of

stupor in his eyes, which now brimmed

he looked as if he

vengeful fury.

bottle of whiskey onto the table

shards scattering across

the breaking glass pierced through the festive din

causing Cicely’s heart to skip a beat. Instinctively, her feet moved

Seth, her high heels a clumsy match for her

remains of the bottle

and she let out

dashed forward, pulling Seth’s arm and

spun half a circle

to Seth, her body

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

appeared in his arms seemed about to fall out

moment.

reverberated

intervene, felt a surge of rage at the

on his

on his arm stood out, and his face, usually

sword blade, seething with

glared at Ray.

Cicely’s arm and

anger, she gripped his

trembling with pain. “Seth,” she managed to say,

tall.

fierce gaze softened as it landed on her pale,

slapped him. Stunned, he

straight. Have you had too much

think provoking him will do you now?

you?!”

pain, and though her voice carried anger,

clear tremble.

from the

her eyes made it clear to him—she was

fear, anger,

gripped his heart as he surveyed her injuries,

on her right arm. He grasped

dark. “Where else are you

and tears

feeling of unfamiliar panic and restlessness swirled within Seth.

voice, “Talk to

to crumble under Seth’s

and

her face. “My… my ankle hurts,” she

in her last

and, with a grimace,

his arms.

been tackled to the ground by Charlie, who had pinned

with a knee on

and was quick to react when

him a

had swung past

he acted swiftly, Cicely had been

Cicely away, Ray, pinned down by Charlie and unable

shout at Seth’s

One day,

done!”

didn’t falter in

*

Cicely’s injuries, Erik and Creighton rushed to

frenzy.

ankle and a

shallow, but not too

treated, her wounds bandaged, and her

Cicely’s eyes were red

greeted them with a tearful “Grandpa”

“Dad.”

just ended a phone call and returned to the room.

local police station for the time being. Seth gave a brief nod to the Erik and Creighton. Their minds were

concern for

mask his concern, which he channeled into anger towards

has never known a day of hardship in

the new year,

his

listen and followed

“Am I not

Enter title…

now, and it’ll still hurt if you scold

pain

said, cutting himself off mid-sentence. She had

were stuffed

lifetime, could he not see through her

hair somewhat disheveled but still beautiful,

when she had unexpectedly run up

him

Totally unexpected.

took on

process these swirling emotions,

intently to the doctor, then stepped

eyes and pursed lips, looking as pitiful

her arms and wrapped

hands passed under her knees, lifting her from

sense of

watching.

Cicely and Seth

care, and returning to the Ellis

never mentioned leaving the Ellis

the gala, Seth stayed at the

Cicely company.

washing up – any time Cicely needed to move,

carry her, never leaving her side. Apart from

impeccable in

complaint-free actions

from the bathroom to the bed where the doctor was

waiting.

bandaging process, despite the doctor’s caution, some pain

shift in pressure and Cicely would wince. This was

heavy silence from the man beside her, who seemed to

tense as a

sitting with Creighton that lasted more than

inevitably turned to business

alone and bored in her

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

to most

about the mechanical manufacturing issues of the

family.

which should

year to

if Diaz International was interested

response was the same as it

didn’t

on to other matters.

interested in company affairs, she found

to Seth’s voice and being able to look up and see

arrived at the Ellis residence just before the

been

put on airs at this time. But Patty’s complexion seemed

than on previous

Ellis family prepared a lavish dinner for her. She

the topic of

Cicely back to the Diaz

surprised, as Patty’s mood didn’t match the generosity

since they were legally married, spending

the most appropriate

paused for a moment, glanced

somewhat absent-mindedly.

noticing Creighton’s reaction, suddenly felt a

home,

had returned to spend a few days, the New

would leave him

*

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

residence.

left with them to pick up Danielle from the

that leaving Danielle alone in

was too heartless. After negotiating

to bring

However, the image of

feels sad just thinking about it. .

Danielle might liven things up, serving as company for the

again, the thought of

it might

bustling since yesterday,

to Cicely not being home for the New Year’s Eve dinner, they

feast knowing Miss Danielle

anyone at the hospital.

encountered Danielle, who should have been picked

face immediately

with Danielle. When she saw Seth

paused for a moment, but then

smiling.

in her wheelchair, also had a momentary freeze

but she brushed

The way she said that made

Seth asked, ignoring her question and

was

storm.

clasped tightly, not

here. We couldn’t leave her all

holidays, could we?”

in her chest, but she fought to keep

not to let her emotions flare out of

my dad who applied for her

family. You stay here

landed on Danielle. “Patty is being polite,

ashamed?”

turned even more

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

was barely able to contain her fury. “The guest

Danielle got herself injured saving

can never repay. What’s wrong with inviting her

her every

lips curled into a sneer. “By that logic, any woman

play the

family’s dinners even more

turned pale with anger, and she whirled to glare at

Cicely. “This is the

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

her?”

don’t take your dissatisfaction

you who’s making him feel

“You…”

Seth’s deep voice cut through

had been light and smiling, settled

as she quietly awaited

here to celebrate, not to

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