The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

Chapter 2031-2040

So, what do you want to do then?”

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

speak, but no words came out.

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

hospital room spotless again.

Charlie returned with a fresh lunch from a nearby deli.

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

“Eat up.”d2

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

Enter title…

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

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

use the restroom on your own.”

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

the fork.

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

“Have you eaten?”

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

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

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

Danielle didn’t dare to press him further.

*

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

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

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

Issac stared at her silently.

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

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

make sure she gets it.”

Issac was moved. “I’ll send someone.”

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

message popped up from Emiliana.

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

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

Cicely: [I’ll add him.]

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

I

ssac was still there when she looked up.

“Why haven’t you left?”

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

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

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

driver’s ID before letting Cicely leave.

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

accepted her friend request.

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

Cicely: [Have you had lunch yet?]

Santino: [Not yet.]

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

Santino did too.

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

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

mask and sunglasses hiding his well-known face.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

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

hope you’re not pressed for time.”

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

Cicely smiled as the dishes began to arrive.

“Thanks for bringing my car back.”

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

difficult.”

Cicely raised an eyebrow. “Fine by me.”

“Are you out on your own again today?”

The question felt ironic to Cicely.

“Is that strange?”

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

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

your age seems a bit lonely too soon.”

Lonely.

Cicely paused. The word felt foreign to her.

She had never considered it a description for herself.

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

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

annoying.”

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

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

“Considerate and understanding?”

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

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

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

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

you through more efficient work.

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

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

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

more you’ve won.”

Cicely’s gaze turned distant.

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

The more it hurts, the more she wins.

Savoring Santino’s words, Cicely smiled.

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

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

Cicely remained noncommittal.

After all, actors portray life in all its facets.

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

for a while.”

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

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

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

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

gratitude.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

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

Santino seemed quite pleased with the idea.

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

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

wedding photos.

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

There were two photos.

One was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

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

suggest such a clichéd stance.

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

might take in the future.

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

of its authenticity.

“Great, wrap it up for me.”

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

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

Actually, he was completely taken aback.

“Just two wedding photos?”

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

fitting.”

Santino nodded in understanding.

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

sunglasses, he was recognized.

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

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

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

Congratulations, you look stunning.”

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

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

you?”

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

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

he proposed with is the same brand you endorse.”

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

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

photo with her.

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

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

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

all the best.”

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

They both chuckled at the apparent misunderstanding.

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

Santino took them casually.

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

picture on social media?”

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

“Thank you.”

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

“Any plans now?” he asked.

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

ago.

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

and rejecting her lunch.

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

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

needs, including trips to the bathroom.

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

very noon.

Santino was right.

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

If not for her, then for someone else.

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

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

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

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

there.”

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

Issac dismissed the caregiver Seth had arranged for Danielle and replaced

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

even the unexpected ones, had been meticulously arranged.

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

the call and dialed Cicely’s number.

— Powered off.

His brow furrowed, and he then called the apartment.

Enter title…

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

yet.”d2

“Alright,” Seth replied coolly.

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

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

been dining out quite often lately.”

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

“Sure thing.”

*

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

past two years.

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

didn’t skimp on expenses.

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

lighting and the sound quality were top-notch.

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

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

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

interest.

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

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

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

Boring.

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

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

recognized her.

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

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

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

with the staff.

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

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

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

excruciating detail?”

“Not quite.”

Cicely sighed. “Sounds dull.”

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

“It better be the best meal ever.”

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

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

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

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

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

personified.

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

caught their attention.

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

responsible for Santino’s interview was curious about her.

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

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

opportunity that they were just friends.

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

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

up a frenzy.

Their plans did not include a love affair for Santino.

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

Cicely was after the interview.

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

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

was already dark outside.

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

seeing him, they erupted into excited screams.

Santino waved back with a smile.

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

anxious.

“Santino, who is she?”

“Is she your new assistant?”

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

chaos, explaining that they were just friends.

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

moment.

Some fans even started crying on the spot.

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

detached amusement.

“What a spectacle,” she remarked.

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

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

find them ridiculous?”

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

suffocating.”

Cicely narrowed her eyes, “How so?”

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

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

happy.”

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

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

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

later.”

Cicely understood; such people did exist.

“That does sound suffocating.”

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

interested in the topic at all.

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

they’ll be returned to you shortly.”

Cicely did as instructed.

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

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

Cicely was genuinely intrigued.

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

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

dish she had seen in a movie.

*

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

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

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

she glanced towards the door.

“Sir, you’re back.”

“Yes. Where is she?”

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

She had thought the couple would come home together.

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

phone and continued to call Cicely.

Voicemail.

It had been voicemail all afternoon.

He turned and dialed Charlie’s number instead.

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

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

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

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

Hollywood-themed diner.”

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

speechless.

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

online. You’ll see.”

Online.

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

overwhelming.

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

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

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

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

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

who knew her could recognize her without a doubt.

Seth’s eyes were cold and terrifying.

Carly shivered from where she stood.

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

turning to walk into the living room.

“Carly, you can head home.”

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

instructions.

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

“I’ll take care of it.”

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

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

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

still simmering on the stove.

*

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

frequently on his watch.

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

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

uncomfortable it will be for you.”

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

Santino fell silent.

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

He was trending.

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

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

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

Santino didn’t make much of it.

After dinner, Santino handed her a scarf.

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

recognized.”

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

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

When they stepped out, Santino shielded Cicely behind him.

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

Who was she?

Was Santino in love?

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

The assistant tried to explain, to no avail.

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

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

displeasure was clear.

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

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

to know who.”

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

persistent journalists.

Santino pulled Cicely away.

*

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

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

pulling up to the apartment building.

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

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

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

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

man opposite her.

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

building.

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

around his neck.

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

tightened as he turned away from the window.

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

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

with his back to her.

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

coat, then bending down to change her shoes.

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

with a detached gaze.

Cicely glanced at him and gathered her statically charged hair.

“Did you come back early today?”

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

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

toward the bedroom while tying it up.

“You can wash your hands outside too.”

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

lingered on him for even a second.

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

within him, his voice tense and cold.

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

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

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

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

toward the bedroom.

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

bedroom entrance.

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

“What are you doing?”

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

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

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

“Drinking again?”

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

I’m tired and want to rest early.”

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

face in her neck.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seth had never been treated like this before.

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

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

her onto the bed.

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

to the mattress.

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

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

breath a chilling mix of anger and frost.

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

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

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

you’re expecting from me?

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

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

Her lips twisted into a defiant smirk.

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

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

into some heartless jerk?”

Enter title…

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

She had actually considered all of this.

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

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

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

Danielle go?”

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

and dripping with sarcasm.

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

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

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

Seth remained silent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

my face and laugh at my failure.

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

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

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

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

mockery.

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

Whether Cicely liked him was always clear.

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

o why did he lose control tonight?

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

her face.

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

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

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

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

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

such things so easily.

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

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

they’re worthless.”

Her expression briefly turned chillingly cold and dismissive before she pushed

him away and left for the bathroom without a word.

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

*

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

hair, clearly post-shower as well.

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

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

changed by Seth.

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

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

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

with a calm expression.

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

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

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

window.

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

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

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

“Right.”

“Good. I trust you.”

What other choice did she have?

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

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

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

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

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

Seth paused, then pulled her into his arms.

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

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

her through and through.

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

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

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

arms still tight around her.

Would she leave him?

How could she?

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

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

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

way to mend or fill it.

*

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

point to check in at the apartment in person.

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

and had woken up early.

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

the door for Charlie.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Charlie caught the keys deftly and immediately went downstairs.

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

room.

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

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

was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

hang them up.”

“Sure thing.”

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

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

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

remembering when.

Her tone suggested she was in a good mood.

“A bit to the right.”

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

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

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

bullets.

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

steady.

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

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

ought to have built some rapport.”

Charlie nearly leapt out the nearby window.

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

“Time to eat.”

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

left. There, that’s perfect.”

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

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

“Time for breakfast.”

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

After breakfast, Seth and Cicely left the apartment together.

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

to the office.

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

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

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

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

the affair that the matter finally settled.

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

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

had deliberately quashed the story.

Cicely didn’t dwell on it.

Once it was over, it was over.

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

caused.

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

it was best to let it go.

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

her.

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

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

evenings.

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

his work.

His efficiency visibly increased.

Yet, it was clear he was getting tired.

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

find reasons to be understanding and to feel for them.

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

accommodate them.

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

want to see him exhausted.

Thankfully, it was only for a week.

*

Cicely spent a day resting at home during the holiday.

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

trouble at the hospital again.]

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

leading to another emotional breakdown.

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

was all an act to garner attention.

It had worked for her before.

Danielle’s room was in disarray.

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

deliberate mess.

Cicely visited around noon, bringing lunch from home.

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

shifting to a feigned calm as she faced Cicely coldly.

“Here to gloat over me again?”

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

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

around?”

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

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

someday.”

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

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

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

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

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

your grand design.”

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

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

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

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

remember, Danielle, you still owe me.”

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

and arranged the lunch before Danielle.

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

smirk forming on her lips as she turned to Cicely.

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

me with kindness?”

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

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

use that term to describe me?”

Danielle’s face turned sour with malice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

anger and agitation.

get all worked up, you know. Getting angry is bad for

life, Seth and I

Enter title…

glared at her coldly and then let out a

really am disabled for life,

off.”d2

flickered slightly as she looked at Danielle, who

up hope. Cicely gave a faint smile. “How

wish for a life

it, and neither will Seth. Even blood relatives fed up after

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

or four decades to live? How patient do

day out? Or rather, do you think

someone disabled?”

trembled violently as she glared at

her

second that you’re off

even dream of running away. You were so

from your grave

Maybe if you get better soon, you

don’t blame me for

teeth, Danielle eyed the neatly laid out food before

but Cicely’s icy, detached voice rang

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

you’re willing to eat, that’s if you don’t find

annoying.”

her arm began to lift, it froze in place. To

Cicely would win.

ruining my appetite.

looked up at the nurse standing by.

she eats or

“Understood.”

a deep

again, turning towards

take two steps, the

paused, her expression darkening as the man who

Ray. The sight of Cicely brought a

who had just returned from the restroom,

front of Cicely.

behind Issac, furrowed her brows as she recalled

he opened the door. She

Ray, feeling any

clenched as he glared

mixed with rage.

“Mr. Ray, don’t you think

advantage of me that night when

score yet, and here

castrated you myself.”

hit Ray

stammered, “Seth never

night?”

what he say negate the fact that you

raped me?”

smile, she added, “I’m aware of Mr.

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

Ray, get your facts straight. It was your drunken folly

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

and dependent. Let’s not

exchange, could hardly believe

Danielle, his expression flustered, “I’m here to visit, not

I know Danielle is the biggest

that so?” Cicely nodded with a

I’ll

left the hospital room. “Ray

we can’t hold him accountable.

I didn’t let

clenched the bag in her hands until her knuckles

brought back the chaos of that

so vivid and terrifying that even the mere

shudder.

“Miss?”

away the memories, “It seems

A rich playboy, surrounded by a constant

proclaiming true feelings

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

his family on the brink,

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

by his

at

nearly get her killed? That seemed a bit

*

Ray stood by

had no idea it would turn out

Ray any more

she shoveled food into her mouth with

indifference.

of the

her plate. “Is it really

Nothing’s happening to him now, and your family is

a chance for a

blown it for good.”

were clenched so tight his knuckles

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

I’ve told you not to be fooled by his act.

what you can imagine. My dad said

his agency, he had his sights set

talent agency, run by a guy who hasn’t

things to make

suddenly delivered a fatal blow. He played innocent but

I wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve never

hadn’t shown up, who do you think would

at the receiving end of my

had pondered

into it. She didn’t want to

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

you wouldn’t believe it, which is why I

up before. I’ve checked with the doctors about your condition, and

a rough road ahead. I came here

ask

look up, her voice

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

or was it just a ploy to achieve

finally turned to look

a motive, my only desire was to win him

a melancholic smile. “It’s different. The accident

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

would you

a long silence, Danielle set her fork down and looked

are

pressed his lips together.

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

stared at her quietly. “I didn’t expect you to brush me off

had died, what would be

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

the villain in

it’s like

can’t, I need to find a

this composed

trembled slightly. She was afraid

was no telling what kind

to.

*

the elevator on the

standing across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

brow furrowed imperceptibly when he

grip on her purse slackened for a moment then

a familiar, faint smile on

was heavy. “You hate hospitals. What are you

heard she had another episode. Came to check on her

she glanced at him coolly.

in bullying a

here not long after Cicely arrived at the hospital. Issac,

instantly grasped what Seth was worried about.

behalf to check on Miss

thought it might give you a

gaze faltered for a

adjusted the scarf around her neck, presenting

corners of her eyes and lips

moods are volatile, and your presence

even leading to harm.”

him with a light smile.

me when I’m fully able

she recovers, the sooner

ties with her.”

know,” Cicely replied, hands tucked into the

why I braved

demeanor. No overt anger, just

it, the

sarcasm and rebellion.

reached out

he’d learned just

avoiding his touch. “Whether I have

don’t have the time to join me. And as

sharing a meal

with such blunt rejection,

question floated into Seth’s

a brief pause, he looked up to find the woman

answer, as if the question itself had

conclusion in

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

pondered for

visit Dad at

“Alright.”

the gates of the Ellis family

the window at the sprawling manor, feeling an unexpected sense

pines stood tall but failed to bring any sense

vitality.

her brows, and the already somewhat

She got out of the car and walked towards the villa.

with servants occasionally moving

be cautious. “Miss,

her arrival, a look of surprise on

you give us a heads

glanced upstairs, “Where’s

too long ago and

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he have for

made some buckwheat

the stairs, turning

step, “And what else?”

“There were a

frown deepened as she turned and headed straight for

the servants to bring out what Creighton

a plate of the brownish buckwheat wraps remained,

salad of carrots and celery, the other a

of ham and cheese.

back of a nearby chair, she lifted

you prepared for my father’s

servants were too frightened to reply,

said helplessly, “Sir has been

dishes. Even if we

Elderly folks’ meals are quite simple. When

sir says there’s no need to

doubt his words, but in

was always

Creighton slumped

chest, his head tilted, seemingly asleep.

and her eyes began

now had but one master.

a humble corner

married early, head over heels in love, insisting

father alone in

herself deeply

Creighton, gently covering him with a

out of the study.

Creighton woke from his nap and came downstairs

face lit up with an unmistakable

little rascal, why didn’t you tell me you

secrets to

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

so many quarrels?” Cicely

couch. “He’s busy with work,

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

over for

to ask him. He listens to you more than he

to me.”

talk to

to Creighton for the rest of

teaching her chess, playfully demanding take-backs that left

amused and exasperated.

father and son squared off

occasionally chiming in with

is golden; don’t meddle in the

and bustling, and even

to have returned

be.

dinner, Creighton

was too busy to make it back.

glance, “Are you two really

hope for us to be

Creighton relented.

dinner, Cicely still sent Seth a message. [I’m at the Ellis estate,

coming home tonight.]

about to create a dramatic runaway scenario

away from home. After all, she couldn’t let Grandpa

anything amiss.

and she didn’t wait up for

Seth showed up at the

frown and moved to assist Seth

message imply

her voice neutral, “No, it was just to

know.”

reason for a married couple

as an invitation

respond, he had pulled her into his

the living

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

these past few days, have you

“Not yet.”

have the staff whip up a few dishes. Cicely,

The dishes were all

him for dinner, but as she stepped

of her

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

chimed in, “You two aren’t fighting, are

deep breath, “Just came

way over to the coffee table, bending down to

to the

Enter title…

to have anticipated her return to

he glance up at

Ellis family estate isn’t

gripped her water bottle, her expression

for

of emotion crossed Seth’s brow as he methodically

down

explain myself

understand very well. Now that you’ve explained it, it’s

bottle for a sip, “I said I’m not fighting with you. There’s no

wasting time over the same person or

napkin, “So

back here just on a

you insist on a reason, I have some. I’m on

time. In fact, on my

staying, but then I saw my

for me, but he could use some company. Are

not

was impassive, her lips curled in

coupled with her

had been placed on the question

noon.

he believe it? If not, she would

you want to stay, stay. It’s just

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

own home,

sip from his water glass. “As you

his easy acquiescence, but the feeling was

disagreed

understand why he

such an easy compromise.

and grandfather

what their conversation would be about—nothing but

matters.

her shopping app for little home

notebooks with pens.

but she liked

knocked, the servant opened it to

stepping inside. “Ms. Cicely,

sending you out in

middle of the

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

discussing matters. You can sit and wait for

errand.

I’ll be on my way

looked up, turned around,

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

suitcase upstairs.

bidding

servant brought up a glass of milk.

upstairs.

to talk about for so long without

had refilled

found some clothes and went to the bathroom where

a while since she’d indulged in

water temperature, she slid into the tub and let out

the bathroom window was a view of the garden

lights. It seemed they had

especially for her return.

she had asked her

the years, glimpsing at them had become a

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.

water, soothing her

she didn’t move again. She drifted in

felt a sudden chill.

skin above the water felt the coolness, and she instinctively

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

fell away, and she looked up to see the man frowning

side of the tub.

the first to drown

was startled, but it was by the man who had

room had dissipated when he

feel cold.

tried to shake off his grip, but he let

next to her and began to undress in a brazen

frowned, “What

beat, dropping his clothes into

one do in a bathroom?

grabbed the towel beside the tub

she was scooped up into

her chest and glared up

to do?”

woman in his arms, her face flushed from

than usual. He smirked, planting

with a voice that was low and enticing.

indignation deflated embarrassingly, “You should be able

without drowning.”

chuckled softly. Compared to her

prickly aura, he preferred her

demeanor.

run

hair for

“No.”

warm spray of the shower interrupted

waited for her consent before turning on

in Cicely, but Seth’s hand covered her eyes. “Close your

wasn’t that Cicely lacked principles, but that this man had a hundred

her anger before

moving an inch, as the towel she’d wrapped around

away by

her arms crossing in front of

modesty she could.

lathered shampoo into her hair with patience,

close into his chest to rinse it clean with the handheld

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

After all, there were more than

fallen for this

hair, he nudged her toward the wall to

took a quick

a cool expression, Cicely asked,

Are you planning to stay

there any reason I

quite a trek from here to the

here. I can’t exactly haul you back against

will.”

anger

he drew closer to her. “It’s okay.

earlier is nothing compared to spending a

better.”

sleep by

leisurely over

contours of her body.

eyes darkened imperceptibly, and he reached

the warm water from the shower cascading over her

her eyes closed to prevent water from flowing

and cryptic

she suddenly felt something insistent pressing against her and came to

already set the showerhead aside,

forehead against hers. “We should get out and dry

go. I can dry it

not going out

closed over

and he moved with a familiarity that made it all too

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

“This is the Ellis

but you seemed not

it down

Cicely’s legs was wrapped around his waist, and as the room

blurred until she was

slipping

from him, her soft hair spreading across the

the bed, facing

to turn away, his long arm scooped her

knowing he’d only persist if she

too exhausted

*

The next day.

was already gone.

faded, with new ones added from

so he seemed.

it. Yet now, with her body covered in marks, he

all too pleased.

into her loose loungewear,

groggy and listless, she found

exercise

Seeing Cicely, Creighton shook his head

fix that

took the milk offered by the servant,

is the best

your health,

most important meal. Why are you still

you

left Cicely speechless

office. Why

office, duh! Perfect timing with your

company instead of ending up

her face showing clear reluctance.

he didn’t

“You’re quite good at

he really didn’t tell

didn’t know, Creighton dropped

with your grandfather to

come?”

curled her legs onto the

a blend of elegance and

have lunch

returned, and they were already

Danielle’s name had come up several times

in the hospital while the rest of them sat

was incredibly inappropriate and heartless.

to visit the hospital the next

dared say the

to Danielle would have a problem with

returned in time for

eating, he headed upstairs first, while Cicely sat

room before going up to her bedroom, where Seth was busy

desk.

to the bathroom, and upon

behind her. After a quick shower,

to

after, it seemed like Seth had finished his work. He stood up,

on the bed, walked over, brushed her forehead with

a gentle peck on the

for

“How horny can you be? It’s

you up to?”

teasing, “What makes you think I

rest tonight?”

“Then what am

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

pushed him gently, “Then hurry

of being pushed away by her, Seth’s body pressed down, kisses

with

found herself gasping for air. She

letting out a soft whimper. It was only then that

on her, just barely.

kiss me to

caught Seth off guard with their unintentional cuteness,

escaped him. “Kiss you to death? I wouldn’t dream

Diaz,” he said with a

Cicely’s

hers.

warrants a penalty for self-justification, then what

you misunderstand me? Shouldn’t I consider how

expression,

me any

slightly tilted her head, calmly and seriously meeting his

thinking that because I’m

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

beautifully curved jawline,

the heart to give me a severe

an eyebrow and ran her hand across his face, her

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

her eyes, Seth felt a subtle stir in

chin, “You like

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

it, “But have you ever heard, love and

start, the more they might

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

her eyes and brows soft with flirtation, “Don’t

comes, which I doubt it will.

nerve, his dark eyes fixed on

He let go of Cicely’s chin and stood

buttons

unfastened the rest.

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

then paused, “If you’re not obedient,

you up my way.”

had no desire to find out what his method of waking her might

from the shower, Cicely was propped

glanced at him, then refocused on the

game.

the phone from her hands. Cicely

strongly, “Is there something

me at the

talking, he swiped and tapped on

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

do there?”

even a little, you wouldn’t need to tag

in the

have to

little girl? Do you think your dad asking you to learn

picking on you for

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

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

family forever. If one

start eating away at you, swallowing

even know where to cry. Don’t

around you

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

isn’t it

in your own

him quietly, “What makes you insecure? You

maybe you want to leave me one

Turning to her, his gazes were

sounds like you’re quite convinced you’ve fallen

who leaves a trail of broken

just saying. But beyond these two reasons, is there anything

didn’t improve, and he didn’t

shadow in their

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

on why I harbor such uncomfortable

back, “I’ve downloaded some files to your email.

before sleep, and

understand tomorrow.”

the document app he had just downloaded

of text. “What will you

out of

I can’t stay by your

mood.”

coat, and walk out. Her face looked

understood all too well; it wasn’t about

a tantrum.

＊

in his study for two hours. Approaching eleven at night, he

his face looking worse than

bedroom, the lights had dimmed, leaving only a

the phone in her arms,

reignited.

Heartless woman.

phone from

she hadn’t closed.

he’d opened for her before

sleeping face

in a rush to find

and tossing it aside, he watched the woman

he pulled her into his

the man’s arms and scent, shifted comfortably

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

Seth wanted to wake her up, maybe keep her up all night.

fell silent again, and any

petty.

＊

petty; the next morning, he woke Cicely with a kiss that

strong coffee. Even for school, Cicely rarely awoke

grumpiness,

robbed of breath.

Seth away, she kicked him hard a couple of times. “Are you

mind?!”

a mischievous grin as he swung his legs out of

shine, off

yanked

your face.” Seth’s

Cicely didn’t budge.

gonna make me

Cicely flung the comforter off with a huff,

but what strength could she muster just out

a pillow at

was close by, and the pillow barely

so over this, I’m not going to the

the pillow, and placed it back

see you up by the time I’m out,

If you don’t want me to wake

back to sleep.”

gritted her teeth in frustration. As Seth turned

into a

threw the covers aside and stomped off to

onto his brush. He watched her

reflection in the mirror.

a subtle raise of his eyebrows, he shifted aside to give

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

She glanced at their reflection. Seth nonchalantly placed the toothpaste

aside.

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

something as simple as toothpaste. The frothy white

slight smile

to the Ellis

last night did you read?”

to know anything.

am I supposed to do

just smiled and didn’t

why he

new desk and chair in the corner, waiting

immediate deployment.

the computer; you can keep

face away, “Computers

excuse, “There

silent. She felt like no matter what excuse she came up

she

pile of folders.

anything you don’t understand, and we can

will you be

a C&P

“You’re leaving me here

in

the reading; I’ll

her mouth to retort

glanced at her before leaving

a clear sign she was up

possibly stir up in the

left, Cicely did take the

but within half an hour, the pen

her phone was

later, she left the office, returning after another

the drawers, fiddled

on a black leather notebook she found

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

and

returned before noon. Cicely sat there, the picture

student.

did you

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

morning and

stung.

“Mr. Diaz, the fact that I’m even

his desk, noticing the black notebook she had taken

her doodles—a passable

in a confident, flamboyant

‘artwork’ and flushed slightly,

nonchalance.

his lips and took a deep breath,

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

the documents away. Seth

she declared as if it

of his nose and sank into his

Come over here.”

No complaints

she grudgingly clutched the files and approached him.

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

leaning back with

her waist, his

one taking liberties

“What do you mean?”

day, you’d concoct all kinds of schemes

to tutor you. Sweet and respectful. Now, you

half-hearted attitude. If that’s not taking liberties,

is?”

“Respectful? That’s

and it’s intentional,

candid admission reeked of impunity, but Seth had no comeback,

like harboring intentions towards me

our current relationship, that would

Seth was momentarily speechless.

smiled,

it’s to your

and leaned back in his chair, turning

his expression and

Cicely watched him—

was annoyed

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

seemed to have no intention

“Aren’t you eating?”

by the rhythmic clacking of

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

suffused with the unmistakable vibe

a big deal’.

me to eat all this by myself?”

food, while he didn’t even bother

her way.

it. Nobody said

narrowed her eyes and huffed, “Then I

tonight.”

at her with an icy

couch and picked up the

we have to

wait until you’re

long are

attitude with me?”

the innocent, “Isn’t it you who’s

want to keep

her silverware tightened

continued to

with me, and I’ll sleep

Seth fell silent.

*

the Ellis Corporation since the afternoon, holding

and had stayed

under Seth’s

summoning various department heads for updates on

and progress reviews, the office atmosphere

As the well-known heiress of the Ellis

image for her father, she couldn’t

of the workday approached, Cicely found most of

the department leaders’ trembling, overly respectful demeanors

made much progress with

hadn’t commented on it.

Mom’s

in a while.”

twitched, “I should probably let my

I’ve already told

to the door

yetTo claim Cicely wasn’t the least

down to it, Cicely knew she had to play

come. If Patty was in a

best to steer

Patty wasn’t

and naturally, Cicely wasn’t

waiting by the door. She cozied up

around Seth’s.

receptionist quickly offered them some tea and

Enter title…

stepped aside to take a call and returned after a

a sip of warm water

the ice. “Spit it out,

fascinating about my face?”d2

always been told if she

But with him always buzzing

even

of her hair, her

overheard General

was talking about this new mechanical equipment upgrade

knock the socks off the old models. We could

the know-how and the development rights.

Instead of bidding and

the deal over to Diaz International?

family, why

was cold. “The big fish like the

Ellis project. Diaz International doesn’t

with the Ellis family’s offer just

Diaz

so many would kill for

you just chicken

Or is it just that you flat-out don’t

with the Ellis family?”

Ellis Corporation, I can say that

more fitting partners than Diaz International. And

Ellis family, are you suggesting I use

make things easier

stance. “What’s wrong with that?

is what counts. Why sweat the small stuff? If

pride for you, I’ll bang

into a half-smile. “Is there a

scared to take the big deals,

point of running Diaz International?

family swallow it up. That way, you wouldn’t have

actually a pretty

thought about it, the

eyes but said

silence, Cicely propped her chin in

go through with that? Assess the

for you in the Ellis family?

personally, and I’ll cut you in

How

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

in Diaz International?”

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

besides your mother, it’s probably Diaz International,

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

me an edge over you. But Diaz

might just be it.”

meaningful and unfathomable

of Diaz International. So what if I say

back on the sofa, with a carefree smile on

to let it

thin lips tightened, clearly

smiled thinly. “Then isn’t my suggestion

Ellis family banner the best

International ever do to

tone that belonged

at her mug, then switched on her charm as

already standing opposite her, her face a stormy mix of

wariness.

I figured it wasn’t such

the Ellis family ain’t too shabby, right? Especially since we will be

need to keep things so

“The future is the

heads-up, don’t even

International.”

eyes carrying a mild, nonchalant smile,

wasn’t bringing it

Seth had already stood up, his expression far from

go.”

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

suppressing a multitude

they had dinner at the Diaz residence, but Cicely

be the real way

night was

to the Ellis residence, Seth took the

are you off to

“Same as today.”

alone in the office

I’ll disturb your

car window, twirling a

her slender finger.

for a few seconds before slowly speaking,

half-smile, “Should I prepare some new

you?”

“No

Seth fell silent.

the butler welcomed them respectfully.

they’ve been temporarily

now, I can bring them

changed her shoes and said, “Well, bring them

were indeed many packages. Cicely sat cross-legged in the living

waterproof mat and started to slice open

knife.

items – mugs, thermos cups, small decorations

She not only unpacked them but also studied them. Her demeanor

instruction manuals was many times more focused and serious

when she read documents.

came down to find Cicely

freshen up;

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

a notable heft, and engraved on it

with her name beneath. Beside her was

and name. The rest of the items were pairs, hers in

light.

you think

back this time did I realize there are no

and it

while still engrossed in the small items,

was the most natural thing in the world. Seth

to get some

morning, seeing the white tumbler in the

contentedly.

the Ellis estate and setting the staff to

was still scattered, but after

the same as what she’d heard

department heads yesterday.

paperwork aside, paced the office, and then there

knock on the door.

laden with parcels. “Ms. Cicely, these parcels,

addressed to you.”

at

in Seth’s chair, she resumed her

an office

pen holder, several

couple of notebooks.

his, albeit with a simpler color

with a cushion on the

had even appeared

to question the wisdom of

done nothing out of

for lunch

much work did you

three fingers, then hesitantly added a fourth,

computer, bringing up

capturing every bit of Cicely’s boredom—and her interest

everything but work.

No surprise there.

was silent, and Cicely, unaware of its

she stated, approaching him. Seth

closed the video.

of text. Seth looked at

today, spent the

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

drifted over the new objects on the desk, and

a reward, I’ll take you out

escaping the office for a meal was music

*

at

for reports

days, and even

about company affairs, she couldn’t help but

was time for the company’s annual

a hectic affair.

Ellis Corporation, Diaz International, and C&P were arranged to

day, at the same hotel,

hotel comprised two twenty-six-story towers, linked by sky bridges. The topfloor ballrooms were

the south, the other

Diaz International’s—a floor

with the Ellis Corporation.

a silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress with

of silver high-heeled shoes, and

dressed as others, she still stood out

moment of her birth, Cicely

inferior. Her clothes were simple in design, yet undeniably from

was distractingly handsome, a sight that

for onlookers to look away. Cicely had

Diaz International gala to make the rounds,

deliver the expected pleasantries, to clink glasses and

away to

orchestrated by Seth’s people, but with

and father present, the spotlight

at the Ellis Corporation gala,

almost like

their guests, receiving blessings and drinks

found their seats, Cicely mused aloud, “Isn’t the

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

others are taking care

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

are a lot of

glanced at her coolly, “And plenty of male

curious to take a

your intentions weren’t so transparent, I

have considered it.”

want to admire the pretty

one day I’ll bring them all to you

personal viewing.”

serious about skipping the C&P gala.

low profile there, and

a whole. C&P, after its grand

was the envy of many. Naturally, the number of

up to Seth was

patient man, unwilling

ingratiate themselves with him.

was a magnet for journalists, both overt

from the C&P event was

not long after, Charlie hurriedly arrived, lowering his

Ray got

commotion over

demeanor darkened. As he stood to leave,

wrist, “What’s

put, I’ll be back soon,” he said, squeezing her

before following Charlie out.

until he was out of sight, then

gala, Ray was slouched

nursing a nearly finished bottle of hard liquor.

Seth with a sneer, using the steps for support as

his feet and

each syllable with a

with venom.

flashing

just how ruthless you can be. Danielle

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

you;

what the we

attendees hadn’t anticipated such drama on the

in the air, the implications clear to

about Seth’s tactics, about how

because Ray had once made an

fiancée, this had incensed him enough

against Ray .

that it had been a

seemed to confirm the

in your family business, my

place

surrendered their shares when

who, even after waking from a

ten percent.

I know

event. I

I have, and I can’t tarnish it. Just

much to you. You destroyed my company, so tell me, wouldn’t it be

Diaz International, let you

today?”

looked at Ray with icy detachment, “If you couldn’t

think

strip away the last shred

in his eyes,

menace, and he looked as if he might

vengeful fury.

whiskey onto the table next to Seth with

sharp shards scattering

of the breaking glass pierced through the

heart to skip a beat. Instinctively, her

Seth, her high heels a clumsy match

jagged remains of the bottle at Seth, Cicely’s

color, and she let out

dashed forward, pulling Seth’s arm and embracing him

a circle to

Seth, her

onto Seth’s hand, and the woman

arms seemed about to fall out of his embrace.

moment.

collective gasp reverberated throughout

who hadn’t expected Cicely to intervene, felt a surge of

blood on his

his arm stood out, and his face, usually cool and

blade, seething with a murderous aura as

glared at Ray.

through Cicely’s arm

anger, she gripped

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

tall.

it landed on her pale,

a resounding slap, Cicely slapped him. Stunned, he

straight. Have you had

you think provoking him will do you now?

you?!”

quivered in pain, and though her voice carried

clear tremble.

from the physical reaction

made it clear to him—she

anger,

gripped his heart as he surveyed her

resting on a clear cut on her right arm. He

else are you

her lip, and

unfamiliar panic and restlessness swirled

voice, “Talk to

ounce of self-control seemed to

and broke down silently,

my ankle

it in her last desperate

high heels and, with

his arms.

had been tackled to the ground by Charlie, who

knee on

beside Seth and was

him a moment’s hesitation. In that

broken bottle had swung past

acted swiftly, Cicely had been cut on the

carried Cicely away, Ray, pinned down by

only shout at Seth’s retreating

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

done!”

falter in his

*

hearing of Cicely’s injuries, Erik and Creighton rushed to the hospital in

frenzy.

ankle and a two-centimeter laceration

but

already been treated,

eyes were red

she greeted them

“Dad.”

a phone call and returned to the room.

Seth gave a brief nod to the Erik and Creighton.

their concern for

mask his concern, which he channeled

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

new year, this happens!

interjected, “it’s not his

and

her a glare. “Am I not allowed

Enter title…

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

pain

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

all his words were stuffed back down his

a lifetime, could he not see

her hair somewhat

the moment at the gala when she

shield him with her

Totally unexpected.

initial shock and anger now took on

he could process these swirling emotions, the doctor’s

Seth listened intently to the doctor,

red eyes and pursed lips,

as could be, then she lifted her arms

passed under her knees, lifting her from

slight sense of peace to the two

watching.

and Seth

needed care, and returning to the Ellis residence was the best

had never mentioned leaving the

Seth stayed at the Ellis residence

Cicely company.

restroom, washing up – any time Cicely needed

carry her, never leaving her side. Apart from

impeccable

actions were bittersweet

Cicely from the bathroom to the bed where the doctor was

waiting.

bandaging process, despite the doctor’s caution,

in pressure and Cicely would wince. This

a heavy silence from the man beside her, who seemed

tense as

any sitting with Creighton that lasted more

inevitably turned to

bored in her

even if it was just to the

most of

the

family.

postponed the deal which

to

Diaz International was interested

the same as it had

Cicely’s. However, Creighton didn’t dwell on this topic,

on to other matters.

interested in company affairs, she

being able to look up and

residence just before the new year. After

who had been injured

at this time.

on

lavish dinner for her. She didn’t

table, she brought up the topic of

to bring Cicely back to the Diaz family for the

was surprised, as Patty’s mood didn’t

were legally married, spending New Year’s at

appropriate and normal

glanced

somewhat absent-mindedly.

noticing Creighton’s reaction, suddenly felt a deep pang

days when she was not at home,

spend

gatherings, would leave him

*

Yearr’s Eve, Seth

residence.

to pick up Danielle from

and Creighton agreed that leaving Danielle alone in the hospital over

was too heartless. After negotiating with the doctor,

bring her

However, the image

home, staring at each other, feels sad just

of Danielle might liven things up, serving

the thought of

it might be

been bustling since yesterday,

home for the New Year’s Eve dinner, they

knowing Miss

at the hospital. And

who should have

face immediately

chatting happily with Danielle. When

her expression paused for a moment,

smiling.

wheelchair, also

but

way she said that made it sound like Cicely was

Seth asked, ignoring her question

voice was

storm.

bit her lip, hands clasped tightly,

brought her here. We couldn’t leave her

holidays, could we?”

a surge of anger rising in her chest, but she

her best not to let

her discharge. If

should’ve been the Ellis family. You stay here for the holidays…”

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

ashamed?”

already embarrassed, turned even more mortified

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

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

Danielle got herself injured saving Seth’s

What’s wrong with inviting her over for dinner?

taking care of her every single day

“By that logic, any woman who

accident and play the

the Ellis family’s

with anger, and she whirled to glare at

pointed at Cicely. “This is the Ellis

for a mother figure that

her?”

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

you who’s making him feel

“You…”

Seth’s deep voice cut

light and smiling, settled

as she quietly awaited

you here to celebrate, not to start a scene

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