The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

Chapter 2031-2040

So, what do you want to do then?”

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

speak, but no words came out.

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

hospital room spotless again.

Charlie returned with a fresh lunch from a nearby deli.

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

“Eat up.”d2

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

Enter title…

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

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

use the restroom on your own.”

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

the fork.

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

“Have you eaten?”

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

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

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

Danielle didn’t dare to press him further.

*

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

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

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

Issac stared at her silently.

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

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

make sure she gets it.”

Issac was moved. “I’ll send someone.”

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

message popped up from Emiliana.

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

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

Cicely: [I’ll add him.]

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

I

ssac was still there when she looked up.

“Why haven’t you left?”

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

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

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

driver’s ID before letting Cicely leave.

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

accepted her friend request.

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

Cicely: [Have you had lunch yet?]

Santino: [Not yet.]

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

Santino did too.

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

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

mask and sunglasses hiding his well-known face.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

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

hope you’re not pressed for time.”

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

Cicely smiled as the dishes began to arrive.

“Thanks for bringing my car back.”

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

difficult.”

Cicely raised an eyebrow. “Fine by me.”

“Are you out on your own again today?”

The question felt ironic to Cicely.

“Is that strange?”

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

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

your age seems a bit lonely too soon.”

Lonely.

Cicely paused. The word felt foreign to her.

She had never considered it a description for herself.

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

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

annoying.”

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

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

“Considerate and understanding?”

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

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

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

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

you through more efficient work.

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

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

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

more you’ve won.”

Cicely’s gaze turned distant.

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

The more it hurts, the more she wins.

Savoring Santino’s words, Cicely smiled.

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

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

Cicely remained noncommittal.

After all, actors portray life in all its facets.

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

for a while.”

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

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

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

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

gratitude.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

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

Santino seemed quite pleased with the idea.

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

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

wedding photos.

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

There were two photos.

One was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

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

suggest such a clichéd stance.

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

might take in the future.

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

of its authenticity.

“Great, wrap it up for me.”

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

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

Actually, he was completely taken aback.

“Just two wedding photos?”

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

fitting.”

Santino nodded in understanding.

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

sunglasses, he was recognized.

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

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

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

Congratulations, you look stunning.”

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

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

you?”

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

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

he proposed with is the same brand you endorse.”

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

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

photo with her.

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

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

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

all the best.”

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

They both chuckled at the apparent misunderstanding.

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

Santino took them casually.

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

picture on social media?”

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

“Thank you.”

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

“Any plans now?” he asked.

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

ago.

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

and rejecting her lunch.

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

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

needs, including trips to the bathroom.

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

very noon.

Santino was right.

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

If not for her, then for someone else.

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

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

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

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

there.”

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

Issac dismissed the caregiver Seth had arranged for Danielle and replaced

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

even the unexpected ones, had been meticulously arranged.

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

the call and dialed Cicely’s number.

— Powered off.

His brow furrowed, and he then called the apartment.

Enter title…

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

yet.”d2

“Alright,” Seth replied coolly.

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

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

been dining out quite often lately.”

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

“Sure thing.”

*

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

past two years.

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

didn’t skimp on expenses.

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

lighting and the sound quality were top-notch.

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

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

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

interest.

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

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

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

Boring.

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

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

recognized her.

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

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

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

with the staff.

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

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

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

excruciating detail?”

“Not quite.”

Cicely sighed. “Sounds dull.”

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

“It better be the best meal ever.”

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

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

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

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

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

personified.

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

caught their attention.

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

responsible for Santino’s interview was curious about her.

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

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

opportunity that they were just friends.

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

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

up a frenzy.

Their plans did not include a love affair for Santino.

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

Cicely was after the interview.

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

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

was already dark outside.

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

seeing him, they erupted into excited screams.

Santino waved back with a smile.

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

anxious.

“Santino, who is she?”

“Is she your new assistant?”

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

chaos, explaining that they were just friends.

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

moment.

Some fans even started crying on the spot.

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

detached amusement.

“What a spectacle,” she remarked.

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

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

find them ridiculous?”

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

suffocating.”

Cicely narrowed her eyes, “How so?”

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

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

happy.”

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

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

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

later.”

Cicely understood; such people did exist.

“That does sound suffocating.”

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

interested in the topic at all.

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

they’ll be returned to you shortly.”

Cicely did as instructed.

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

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

Cicely was genuinely intrigued.

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

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

dish she had seen in a movie.

*

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

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

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

she glanced towards the door.

“Sir, you’re back.”

“Yes. Where is she?”

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

She had thought the couple would come home together.

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

phone and continued to call Cicely.

Voicemail.

It had been voicemail all afternoon.

He turned and dialed Charlie’s number instead.

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

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

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

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

Hollywood-themed diner.”

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

speechless.

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

online. You’ll see.”

Online.

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

overwhelming.

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

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

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

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

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

who knew her could recognize her without a doubt.

Seth’s eyes were cold and terrifying.

Carly shivered from where she stood.

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

turning to walk into the living room.

“Carly, you can head home.”

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

instructions.

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

“I’ll take care of it.”

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

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

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

still simmering on the stove.

*

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

frequently on his watch.

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

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

uncomfortable it will be for you.”

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

Santino fell silent.

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

He was trending.

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

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

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

Santino didn’t make much of it.

After dinner, Santino handed her a scarf.

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

recognized.”

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

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

When they stepped out, Santino shielded Cicely behind him.

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

Who was she?

Was Santino in love?

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

The assistant tried to explain, to no avail.

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

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

displeasure was clear.

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

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

to know who.”

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

persistent journalists.

Santino pulled Cicely away.

*

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

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

pulling up to the apartment building.

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

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

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

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

man opposite her.

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

building.

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

around his neck.

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

tightened as he turned away from the window.

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

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

with his back to her.

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

coat, then bending down to change her shoes.

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

with a detached gaze.

Cicely glanced at him and gathered her statically charged hair.

“Did you come back early today?”

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

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

toward the bedroom while tying it up.

“You can wash your hands outside too.”

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

lingered on him for even a second.

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

within him, his voice tense and cold.

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

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

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

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

toward the bedroom.

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

bedroom entrance.

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

“What are you doing?”

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

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

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

“Drinking again?”

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

I’m tired and want to rest early.”

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

face in her neck.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seth had never been treated like this before.

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

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

her onto the bed.

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

to the mattress.

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

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

breath a chilling mix of anger and frost.

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

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

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

you’re expecting from me?

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

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

Her lips twisted into a defiant smirk.

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

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

into some heartless jerk?”

Enter title…

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

She had actually considered all of this.

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

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

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

Danielle go?”

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

and dripping with sarcasm.

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

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

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

Seth remained silent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

my face and laugh at my failure.

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

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

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

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

mockery.

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

Whether Cicely liked him was always clear.

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

o why did he lose control tonight?

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

her face.

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

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

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

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

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

such things so easily.

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

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

they’re worthless.”

Her expression briefly turned chillingly cold and dismissive before she pushed

him away and left for the bathroom without a word.

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

*

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

hair, clearly post-shower as well.

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

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

changed by Seth.

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

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

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

with a calm expression.

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

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

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

window.

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

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

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

“Right.”

“Good. I trust you.”

What other choice did she have?

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

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

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

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

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

Seth paused, then pulled her into his arms.

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

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

her through and through.

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

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

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

arms still tight around her.

Would she leave him?

How could she?

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

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

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

way to mend or fill it.

*

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

point to check in at the apartment in person.

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

and had woken up early.

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

the door for Charlie.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Charlie caught the keys deftly and immediately went downstairs.

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

room.

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

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

was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

hang them up.”

“Sure thing.”

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

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

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

remembering when.

Her tone suggested she was in a good mood.

“A bit to the right.”

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

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

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

bullets.

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

steady.

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

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

ought to have built some rapport.”

Charlie nearly leapt out the nearby window.

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

“Time to eat.”

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

left. There, that’s perfect.”

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

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

“Time for breakfast.”

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

After breakfast, Seth and Cicely left the apartment together.

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

to the office.

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

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

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

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

the affair that the matter finally settled.

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

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

had deliberately quashed the story.

Cicely didn’t dwell on it.

Once it was over, it was over.

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

caused.

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

it was best to let it go.

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

her.

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

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

evenings.

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

his work.

His efficiency visibly increased.

Yet, it was clear he was getting tired.

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

find reasons to be understanding and to feel for them.

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

accommodate them.

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

want to see him exhausted.

Thankfully, it was only for a week.

*

Cicely spent a day resting at home during the holiday.

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

trouble at the hospital again.]

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

leading to another emotional breakdown.

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

was all an act to garner attention.

It had worked for her before.

Danielle’s room was in disarray.

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

deliberate mess.

Cicely visited around noon, bringing lunch from home.

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

shifting to a feigned calm as she faced Cicely coldly.

“Here to gloat over me again?”

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

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

around?”

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

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

someday.”

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

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

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

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

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

your grand design.”

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

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

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

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

remember, Danielle, you still owe me.”

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

and arranged the lunch before Danielle.

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

smirk forming on her lips as she turned to Cicely.

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

me with kindness?”

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

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

use that term to describe me?”

Danielle’s face turned sour with malice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

anger and agitation.

all worked up, you know. Getting angry is

bedridden for life, Seth and I will be driven to

Enter title…

coldly and then

for life, you’ll never be

off.”d2

eyes flickered slightly as she looked at Danielle,

Cicely gave a faint smile. “How shameless

you wish for a life of

neither will Seth. Even blood

important do you think you are

to live? How patient do you think

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

someone disabled?”

she glared at Cicely. Each word was

her most

think for a second that you’re off the

You

from your grave and lash your corpse to satisfy

Eat up. Maybe if you get better soon, you might be able

don’t blame me

the neatly

icy, detached voice rang

wouldn’t starve myself just to spite someone.

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

annoying.”

in place. To eat or not to

Cicely would win.

ruining my appetite. Please, leave

by. “Keep an eye on her. Let me

eats

“Understood.”

a deep

her again, turning towards the door to leave.

could take two steps, the door swung open

as the man who

Cicely brought a surge of

had just returned from the restroom, rushed

front of Cicely.

behind Issac, furrowed her

She reached out and pushed Issac

feeling any

clenched as

mixed with rage.

you think

the one who nearly took advantage of me that night when

that score yet, and here you

castrated you myself.”

hit Ray

Ray stammered, “Seth never told you what

night?”

slightly, “Does what he say negate the fact

raped me?”

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

it. Let’s put our grievances aside for

Ray, get your facts straight. It was your

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

and dependent. Let’s not make her situation

the exchange, could hardly believe the

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

I know Danielle is the biggest

a

I’ll take my

they left the hospital room. “Ray wasn’t

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

by yesterday, but I

clenched the bag in her hands until her knuckles turned

brought back the chaos of

terrifying that even

shudder.

“Miss?”

blinked away the memories, “It seems Mr. Ray is

A rich playboy, surrounded by a constant

feelings for one seemed

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

scoffed, “Not perhaps. With his family on the

clear she means a

orchestrated by his family

at

get her killed? That seemed a

*

hospital room, Ray stood by

guilt. “I’m sorry, I had no idea it

in the mood to give Ray any more attention than

she shoveled food into her mouth

indifference.

a dog-eat-dog world. Regardless of the tactics

said, not looking up from her plate.

him now, and your family is on its

there was at least a chance for a comeback, but now,

blown it for good.”

tight his knuckles were white, and

on his forehead. “He orchestrated the downfall of

I’ve told you not to be fooled by

what you can imagine. My dad said the moment

his sights

agency, run by a guy

to make everyone relax

a fatal blow. He

That night, I wasn’t simply

for you, and if Cicely hadn’t shown up,

at the receiving end of my

She had pondered

into it. She didn’t want to

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

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

checked with the doctors about your condition, and

albeit a rough road ahead. I

ask

didn’t look up, her voice restrained

of that car for him, was it truly out of a

was it

turned to look at Ray. “Does it

my only

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

father to be so

you

set her fork down and looked

answer are you

his lips together.

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

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

died, what would be the point of

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

to play the villain in front of me to push me

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

can’t, I need to

seen Ray this composed yet

on the blanket trembled slightly. She was afraid

left to lose, there was no telling what kind of madness he might

to.

*

elevator on the ground

standing across the

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

furrowed imperceptibly when he

purse slackened for a moment then tightened. She

familiar, faint smile on her face.

heavy. “You hate hospitals. What are you doing

another episode. Came to check on her

silence, she glanced

in bullying a cripple,

Cicely arrived at

grasped what Seth

on your behalf to check on Miss Danielle, considering how

thought it might give you a

faltered for a

adjusted the scarf around her neck, presenting only

at the corners of her eyes

moods are volatile, and your presence might exacerbate

even leading to harm.”

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

could hurt me when

sooner she

ties with her.”

replied, hands tucked into the pockets of

braved the disgust

overt anger, just a serene and

she displayed it, the clearer Seth could

sarcasm and rebellion.

Seth reached out to pull her

learned just a week

stepped aside, avoiding his touch. “Whether I have

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

sharing a meal

blunt rejection,

question floated into

a brief pause, he looked up to find the woman already

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

conclusion in her

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

settled into the car and pondered

Dad at the Ellis

“Alright.”

the car rolled through the gates of the

sprawling manor, feeling an unexpected

green pines stood tall but failed to bring any sense

vitality.

brows, and the already somewhat suppressed

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

with servants occasionally

seemed to be cautious. “Miss, you’re

of her

didn’t you give us

upstairs, “Where’s

long ago and was reading in the study. Not

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he have

made some buckwheat

the stairs, turning to

step, “And what else?”

were a

as she turned and headed

ordered the servants to bring out

plate of the brownish buckwheat wraps remained, along with

salad of carrots and celery, the other

of ham and cheese.

she lifted her

prepared for my

frightened to reply, their

“Sir has

asked for these dishes. Even if we prepared

touch them. Elderly folks’ meals are quite simple. When

there’s no need

not to doubt his words,

dining table was always a feast

Creighton slumped in a

chest, his head tilted, seemingly asleep.

hit Cicely, and her eyes began to

but one master. That grand dining table now

a humble corner

heels in love,

alone

herself deeply in

covering him

out of the study.

from his nap

his face lit up with

rascal, why didn’t you tell me you were

to hide before

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

many quarrels?” Cicely

couch. “He’s busy with work, and

all the home-cooked meals. Dad,

for

“You’ll have to ask him. He listens to you

to me.”

talk

to Creighton for the rest of the

playfully demanding take-backs that left Creighton

amused and exasperated.

squared off while she

chiming in with unsolicited

is golden; don’t meddle in

was lively and bustling, and

family seemed to have returned to how it used

be.

Creighton inquired about

to make it back.

“Are you two really

us to be alright,

Creighton relented.

message. [I’m

coming home tonight.]

wasn’t about to create a dramatic runaway scenario with Seth,

she couldn’t let

anything amiss.

and she

eight, Seth showed up at the Ellis

assist Seth with his coat. “Why are you

imply for

rack, her voice

know.”

no reason for a married couple to

your message as an invitation

respond, he had pulled her into his

the living

couple’s closeness, smiled, “I’ve heard you’ve

past few days,

“Not yet.”

the staff whip up a few dishes.

dishes were all tailored to

planned on joining him for dinner, but as she stepped

with the inexplicable stares of her

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

two aren’t fighting,

took a deep breath, “Just came out to grab my

way over to the coffee table, bending down to pick up her

back to the

Enter title…

her return to dine with him, and

glance up at her. “If

Ellis family estate isn’t as cozy

water bottle, her expression

here for

Seth’s brow as

set down

explain myself

that you’ve explained

bottle for a sip, “I said I’m not

time over the same

with a napkin, “So you’re

here just on

some. I’m on holiday, but you’re

time. In fact, on my way back

then I saw my dad and changed my mind. You

but he could use

prove I’m not fighting with

impassive, her lips curled

the last part, coupled with her subtle expression, it

an answer had been placed on the question she had left lingering

noon.

it? If

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

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

own home,

a sip from his water glass. “As you

surprised by his easy acquiescence,

even if he disagreed today, it

understand why he mentioned inconvenience and

such an easy compromise.

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

what their conversation would

matters.

her shopping app for little

and notebooks with pens.

liked

front door was knocked, the servant opened it

stepping inside. “Ms.

“How heartless, sending

of the night no

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

You can sit

need, I just have an errand. Mr. Seth asked me

I’ll be on my

up, turned around, and noticed a

quickly directed the servant to

suitcase upstairs.

linger, bidding farewell and

servant brought up a glass of milk. After

upstairs.

to talk about

The servant had refilled

and went to the

drawn. It had been a while since she’d

slid into the tub and let

was a view of

lights. It seemed they had been turned

especially for her return.

she had

the years, glimpsing at them had become a habit during her

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

the edge of the

over her eyes.

water, soothing

move again. She drifted in

felt a sudden chill.

above the water felt the coolness, and she

her eyes, her hand was caught midair, and

looked up to see the man frowning at

side of the tub.

to be the first to

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

The warmth of the room had dissipated when

feel cold.

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

her and began to

“What are you

without missing a beat, dropping his clothes into

do

beside the tub

could leave, she

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

to do?”

his arms, her face flushed from

more radiant than usual. He

a voice that was low and

embarrassingly, “You should be able

without drowning.”

chuckled softly. Compared to her quiet, gentle

he preferred her current bold,

demeanor.

her thorny retort, he began to run his fingers through

your hair for

“No.”

of the shower

consent before turning on the shower. A

rose in Cicely, but Seth’s hand covered her

principles, but that

her anger before it even

still, not moving an inch,

yanked away by

arms crossing in front

modesty she could.

lathered shampoo into her hair with

her close into his chest to rinse it clean with the handheld

eyes closed, Cicely considered that her taste

without merit. After all, there were more than a couple

fallen for this

her hair, he nudged

took a quick shower

a cool expression, Cicely

planning to stay

any reason

to your apartment, it’s quite a trek from here

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

will.”

anger tinged

into a smile as he drew closer to her. “It’s

earlier is nothing compared to spending a whole night

better.”

can’t sleep by

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

contours of her body.

eyes darkened imperceptibly, and he reached out to pull

warm water from the shower cascading over her

prevent water from flowing into them, Cicely’s mind

succinct and cryptic

felt something insistent pressing against her

the showerhead aside, his

his forehead against hers. “We should get out

go. I can dry it

not going out

closed

moved with a familiarity

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

pain. “This

convenient, but you seemed not to mind. Though,

keep it

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

she was on the brink

slipping her into pajamas,

away from him, her soft hair

of the bed, facing her. As she sensed his

his long arm scooped her

to resist, knowing he’d only persist if she tried

exhausted to continue

*

The next day.

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

faded, with new ones added from

protective—or so he seemed. Any

Yet now, with

all too pleased.

freshening up and slipping into

and listless, she found

from their morning exercise and

Cicely, Creighton shook his head with a mix of

fix

the milk offered by the servant, sipped half of it, and slumped

“Sleeping in is the best part of

your health, and

important meal. Why are you still

you leave with

irritation left Cicely speechless

the office. Why

the office, duh! Perfect timing with your holiday. You could learn a

company instead of ending up

clear reluctance. “No, he

he

“You’re quite good at passing

he really didn’t tell

didn’t know, Creighton dropped the

your grandfather to see Danielle.

come?”

Cicely curled her legs onto the

a blend of elegance and lazy

lunch

just returned, and they were already leaving her to eat

night before, Danielle’s name had come up

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

inappropriate and heartless.

were set to visit

scoffed silently. Anyone who dared say the Ellis family was harsh

would have a

in time for

while Cicely sat with Creighton and Erik

going up to her bedroom, where Seth

desk.

the bathroom,

quick shower, she emerged to find Seth still

into bed to play with

Seth had finished his work. He stood up,

walked over, brushed her

the

Wait for me,

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

you up to?”

brow quirked with a hint of teasing, “What makes

rest tonight?”

what

are plenty of things we have yet

Cicely pushed him gently, “Then hurry

her, Seth’s body

penetrating with unrestrained

gasping for air. She lifted

his shoulders, letting out a soft whimper. It was only

on her, just barely.

me to death?” she managed to

words caught Seth off guard with their

to death? I wouldn’t dream of it.

Diaz,” he said with a playful tone,

little bit of sweet punishment.” “Misunderstood?” Cicely’s

from hers. A gentle

misunderstanding warrants a penalty for self-justification,

Shouldn’t I consider how

amused expression, yet

me any

and seriously meeting his

confident, thinking that because I’m so

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

curved jawline, “So, ask yourself,

to give me a

an eyebrow and ran her hand

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

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

her smooth chin, “You

moved from his face

heard, love and hate are two

at the start, the more they might hate

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

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

doubt it will. I wouldn’t choose

bee sting to the nerve, his dark

cracked a faint smile. He let go of Cicely’s

shirt was already missing two buttons

unfastened the rest.

off tonight. It’s still early, so be

then paused, “If you’re

you up my way.”

to find out what his method of

Cicely was propped up in bed,

game. She glanced at him,

game.

snatched the phone from her

something you need to

me at the

swiped and tapped on her phone

about business, what am I supposed

do there?”

little, you wouldn’t need

thing in

I have to

think your dad asking you

on you for

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

in the future, your only sure

manage the Ellis family forever. If one day, shareholders

a weak moment and start eating

you won’t even know where to cry.

around you is harmlessly

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

isn’t it yours too? What’s there to

only when truly in your own hands,

him quietly, “What makes you

Or maybe you want to leave me

froze. Turning to her, his gazes were

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

a

these two reasons, is

expression didn’t improve, and

their depths replaced by a shallow smile.

so quick to assume. In

reflecting on why I harbor

phone back, “I’ve downloaded some files to

as you can before sleep, and

understand tomorrow.”

document app he had just

with a blur of text. “What

glanced at her, then got out of bed, lifting

to reflect. Naturally, I can’t stay

mood.”

up, grab a coat, and walk out. Her face looked

all too well; it wasn’t about

a tantrum.

＊

in his study for two

face looking

the lights had dimmed,

woman sleeping with the phone in

reignited.

Heartless woman.

bed, taking the phone from her

she hadn’t closed.

he’d opened for her

sleeping face

wonder Creighton was in a rush to find her a reliable

tossing it aside, he watched the woman

his face cold as he pulled

to the man’s arms and scent, shifted comfortably

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

to wake her up, maybe keep her

sentence, she fell silent again, and any further pursuit would

petty.

＊

wasn’t petty; the next morning, he woke Cicely with

of strong coffee. Even

morning grumpiness, she

robbed of breath.

a couple of times. “Are you out of

mind?!”

a mischievous grin as he swung

off

am not going.” Cicely yanked the comforter

show your face.” Seth’s

Cicely didn’t budge.

make me do this the

the comforter off with a huff, sat up, and lobbed

at him, but what strength could

pillow at

by, and the pillow barely

so over this, I’m not going to

picked up the pillow, and placed it

If I don’t see you up by

don’t want me to wake you

back to sleep.”

frustration. As Seth turned

a sly

threw the covers aside and stomped off to

was busy squeezing toothpaste onto his brush. He

reflection in the mirror.

raise of his eyebrows, he shifted aside to

and Seth, as if on cue,

glanced at their reflection. Seth nonchalantly placed the toothpaste

aside.

task, she started brushing. It

something as simple as toothpaste. The frothy white bubbles

slight smile of

breakfast, they headed to the Ellis Corporation

from last

to know anything.

So what am I

just smiled

why he

He had prepared a new desk and chair in the

immediate deployment.

the computer;

turned her face away,

anticipate this excuse, “There are printed

matter

for it. Reluctantly, she moved

pile of folders.

don’t understand, and we can go over it

will you

a

frowned, “You’re leaving

wolves in the

the reading;

retort

at her before

clear sign she was

possibly stir up in

did take the

marks with her pen, but within

and her

she left the office, returning

through the drawers,

a pen and doodled on a black leather notebook

with her phone and then, noticing

and the

Seth returned before noon. Cicely sat there, the picture of

student.

much did you

a bit challenging since it’s new to

in a whole morning and you’re proud of

stung.

fact that

approached his desk, noticing the black notebook she

found her doodles—a

written in a confident, flamboyant

‘artwork’ and flushed slightly, but quickly adopted an

nonchalance.

and took a deep breath, “Anything you didn’t

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

tidied the documents away. Seth

declared as if it justified

pinched the bridge of his nose and sank into his

Come over here.”

prepared? No

files and approached him.

pulled her into an embrace. “What the heck, Seth?

office,” Cicely said, leaning

tightened around her waist, his voice

one taking liberties

“What do you mean?”

“Back in the day, you’d concoct all

you. Sweet and respectful. Now, you can’t

attitude. If that’s not taking

is?”

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

you, and it’s

reeked of impunity, but Seth had no comeback, “So

like harboring intentions towards

our current relationship, that would mean cheating,

Seth was momentarily speechless.

feeling victorious, smiled,

me, it’s to your

and leaned back in his chair, turning to

expression and voice

Cicely watched him—

was

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

to have no intention of joining

“Aren’t you eating?”

out by the

His mood was as

suffused with the unmistakable vibe of ‘he’s upset, and

a big deal’.

all this by myself?”

a table laden with food, while he didn’t

her way.

can’t eat it, leave it. Nobody said you

narrowed her eyes and huffed, “Then I guess you’ll be

tonight.”

up at her with an

couch and picked up

to sleep

until you’re

face was stoic, “How long are you planning

attitude with me?”

innocent, “Isn’t it you who’s

you want to keep butting heads

her silverware tightened before relaxing. “Just

to

with me, and I’ll sleep

Seth fell silent.

*

the Ellis Corporation since

stayed in

slack off, but under

various department heads for updates on all

and progress reviews, the

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

she couldn’t afford

approached, Cicely found most

trembling, overly respectful

made much progress with the paperwork,

hadn’t commented on it.

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

in a while.”

twitched, “I should probably let

need, I’ve already

and moved to the door to put

Patty hadn’t arrived yetTo claim Cicely wasn’t the least

when it came down to it, Cicely knew she had to play it

as they come. If Patty was in a good

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

Patty wasn’t

and naturally, Cicely wasn’t about to freeze

She cozied up in the lounge area, wrapping an

around Seth’s.

them some

Enter title…

aside to take a call and returned after a few minutes, sitting

He took a sip of warm water

the ice. “Spit it out,

fascinating about my face?”d2

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

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

he hadn’t even mentioned anything

a strand of her hair, her

nonchalantly, “I overheard General

this new mechanical

off the old models. We could corner the market

has the

Instead of bidding and choosing another manufacturer, why

Diaz International? Given the ties

Ellis family, why haven’t

big fish like the Harper family,

Ellis project. Diaz International

with the Ellis family’s offer just

the Ellis family picks Diaz International, the

Seth, so many would kill for that kind of opportunity.

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

Watsons? Or is it

with the Ellis family?”

interim head of the Ellis Corporation, I can

all more fitting partners than Diaz International. And

wanting to work with the Ellis family, are you suggesting I use my position

make things easier for

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

bottom line is what counts. Why

you,

mouth twitched into a half-smile. “Is

scared to take the

point of running Diaz International? Might as

it up. That way, you wouldn’t have

that’s actually a pretty solid

she thought about it, the

narrowed his eyes but

silence, Cicely propped her chin in her hands

actually go through with that? Assess the value of Diaz

shares for you in the Ellis family? Or, you could

I’ll cut you in on a slice of

How about

all this rigmarole for? Why

in Diaz International?”

twinkled. “Just occurred to me, if

besides your mother, it’s probably

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

sleeve that gives me an edge

might just be it.”

unfathomable as

International. So what if I say

a carefree smile on her face. “Then

to let

tightened, clearly displeased with

just smiled thinly. “Then

under the Ellis family banner the

do to tick you off?” The

that belonged

switched on her charm

standing opposite her, her face a stormy mix of gloom

wariness.

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

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

No need to

a scoff, “The future is the future. You bite off

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

International.”

eyebrow, her eyes carrying a mild,

wasn’t bringing it up, neither

had already stood up, his expression far from rosy.

go.”

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

if forcefully suppressing a multitude of

the Diaz residence, but

Patty might be the real

the night was out of

residence, Seth took the

“Where are you

“Same as today.”

in

I’ll disturb

arm against the car window, twirling a

her slender finger.

for a few seconds before slowly speaking, “Yeah,

“Should I prepare some new

you?”

head, “No need,

Seth fell silent.

home, the butler welcomed them

for you today; they’ve been temporarily

them now, I can bring

said,

were indeed many packages. Cicely sat

started to

knife.

of them were small items – mugs, thermos cups,

unpacked them but also

manuals was many times more

when she read documents.

came down to find Cicely amidst an array

“Go freshen up; we’re

a white travel

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

beneath. Beside her was a matching black one, likely

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

light.

made you think of

this time did I realize there are

it feels

still engrossed in the small items,

it was the most natural thing in

her to get

next morning, seeing the white tumbler in the car,

contentedly.

estate and setting the staff to

Cicely’s focus was still scattered, but after reviewing

they were much the same

department heads yesterday.

paced the office,

knock on the door.

arms laden with parcels. “Ms. Cicely, these

addressed to you.”

till now, perked up at the sight,

she resumed her task with the

to an office transformed. His desk

pen holder, several

couple of notebooks.

the corner mirrored his, albeit with a simpler

with a cushion

flowers had even appeared on the coffee

the wisdom of leaving

she’d done nothing

“What’s for

work did

then hesitantly added a

keys on the computer, bringing up

bit of Cicely’s boredom—and her interest

everything but work.

No surprise there.

Cicely, unaware

upward. “I’m hungry,” she

closed the video.

a screen full of text. Seth looked

today, spent the

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

gaze drifted over the new objects on the

a reward, I’ll take you out for

prospect of escaping the office for a meal

*

stayed at

summoning staff for reports

several days, and even

affairs, she couldn’t help

settled, it was time for the

a hectic affair.

Corporation, Diaz International, and

the same day, at the same hotel,

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

the south, the other north,

just below Diaz International’s—a floor apart, with

with the Ellis Corporation.

a silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress with the hem

pair of

she still stood out as the most

Cicely seemed destined to make other

were simple in design, yet undeniably from

was distractingly handsome,

away. Cicely had everything people longed

had brought her to the Diaz International gala to make the rounds,

and deliver the expected pleasantries, to clink glasses

her away to the

orchestrated by

father present, the

Seth and Cicely’s arrival at the Ellis Corporation

almost like

guests, receiving blessings and drinks

found their seats, Cicely mused aloud,

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

taking care of it,” Seth

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

lot of celebrity beauties

“And

even curious to

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

have considered it.”

want to

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

personal viewing.”

seemed serious about skipping the C&P gala. Cicely

profile there, and even more so in the

whole. C&P, after its

in its grip, was the envy of many. Naturally, the

up to Seth

unwilling to waste

ingratiate themselves with him.

was a magnet for journalists, both

from the C&P event was deliberate, with plenty of

away. However, not long after, Charlie

Diaz, Ray got drunk at the

a commotion over

furrowed, and his demeanor darkened. As he stood to

his wrist, “What’s

be back soon,” he

before following Charlie out.

he was out of sight, then rose and

slouched on

of hard liquor. His face flushed

he greeted Seth with a sneer, using the steps

to his feet

slurred, emphasizing each syllable with a bitterness that

venom. “You’re impressive,

laughed coldly, flashing a

play hardball. I’ve seen just how ruthless you can

I can’t blame anyone for the downfall

never provoked you; we

coveted what the we had,

drama on the eve of their

hung in the air, the implications clear

were whispers about Seth’s tactics, about how

had once made an indecent

had incensed him enough

against Ray .

had

seemed to confirm

shareholder in

leave this place

surrendered their shares when Ray’s

even after waking from a hospital stay, clung stubbornly

ten percent.

“Rest assured, I know this

this is your Diaz International event. I can’t do

have, and I can’t

so

you and ruined Diaz International, let you taste the bitterness

today?”

Ray with icy detachment, “If you couldn’t

makes you think you can destroy Diaz

strip away the last

stupor in his

he might lunge at Seth

vengeful fury.

onto the table

it shattered, sending sharp shards scattering across the polished

of the breaking glass pierced through the festive din like a

silk, causing Cicely’s heart to skip a beat. Instinctively,

heels a clumsy

brandished the jagged remains of the

let out a

Seth’s arm

circle to avoid

to Seth, her

blood fell onto Seth’s hand,

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

moment.

reverberated throughout

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

blood on

veins on his arm stood out, and

a bloodied sword blade, seething with a murderous aura as

glared at Ray.

shot through Cicely’s arm

Seth’s unrestrained anger, she gripped his

“Seth,” she managed to

tall.

fierce gaze softened as it landed

slap, Cicely slapped him. Stunned, he

not thinking straight. Have you

think provoking him will

you?!”

and though her voice carried anger, it also

clear tremble.

stem from the physical reaction

made it clear to him—she was

anger, or

pain gripped his heart as

on her right arm. He grasped her arm,

“Where else are

her lip, and

of unfamiliar panic and restlessness swirled within Seth. He

voice, “Talk to

of self-control seemed to crumble under Seth’s growl,

indignation, fear—all converged and

face. “My… my ankle

in her last desperate

her high heels and, with a grimace, bent down

his arms.

tackled to the ground by Charlie, who had

on his back, restraining his

been right beside Seth and

panicked cry had caused him a

had swung

swiftly, Cicely had been cut

Cicely away, Ray, pinned down

shout at Seth’s

damn arrogant. One day, you’ll pay

done!”

falter in his

*

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

frenzy.

ankle and a two-centimeter laceration

but

she had already been treated, her wounds bandaged, and

were red and swollen from

greeted them

“Dad.”

a phone call and

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

their concern

which

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

year,

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

and

I not

Enter title…

still hurt if you

pain stop, then

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

natter until all his words were stuffed

a lifetime, could he

Cicely, her hair somewhat

the moment at the gala when she had unexpectedly run up

him with

Totally unexpected.

anger now took on a

could process these swirling emotions, the doctor’s

the doctor, then stepped beside

with red eyes and pursed

her arms and wrapped

under her knees, lifting

slight sense of

watching.

and Seth back to

and returning to the

she had never mentioned leaving the Ellis

gala, Seth stayed

Cicely company.

washing up – any time Cicely needed

carry her, never leaving her side.

impeccable in his

complaint-free actions were bittersweet for

carried Cicely from the bathroom to the bed where the doctor was

waiting.

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

slight shift in pressure and

heavy silence from the man beside her, who seemed to

tense as

Ellis residence, any sitting with Creighton that lasted

inevitably turned to business

her room,

he went, even if it was just to the

to most of

talk about the mechanical manufacturing issues of the

family.

had postponed the deal which should have

to

if Diaz International was

response was the same as it had been

Creighton didn’t dwell on this topic,

on to other matters.

company affairs, she found comfort in

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

the Ellis residence just before the new

been injured protecting Seth, Patty

this time. But Patty’s complexion

on

Ellis family prepared a lavish

she brought up the topic

to

mood didn’t match

legally married, spending New

most appropriate and

a moment, glanced at the

somewhat absent-mindedly.

felt a

at home, the vastness of the Ellis

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

would

*

Yearr’s Eve, Seth

residence.

with them to pick up

that leaving Danielle

heartless. After negotiating with the doctor, they

bring

comment. However, the image

each other, feels sad just thinking

things up, serving as company

then again, the thought of Danielle’s

that it might be better off without

staff had been bustling since yesterday, and though

home for the New Year’s

a sumptuous feast knowing Miss Danielle would

anyone at the

who should have been picked

face immediately

chatting happily with Danielle. When

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

smiling.

her wheelchair, also had a

face, but she brushed it aside. “Seth,

she said that made it sound like Cicely

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

His voice was as flat as

storm.

her lip, hands clasped tightly, not saying

her all alone

holidays, could we?”

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

not to let her emotions flare out of

who applied for her discharge. If anyone was going

been the Ellis family. You stay here for the

gaze landed on Danielle. “Patty is being

ashamed?”

more mortified after that brief,

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

to contain her fury. “The guest I

got herself injured saving Seth’s life. We

we can never repay. What’s wrong with inviting her

of her

sneer. “By that logic, any woman who fancies

play the damsel in distress.

the Ellis family’s dinners even more

anger, and she whirled to glare at Seth,

Cicely. “This is the Ellis family’s dear daughter?

mother figure that you have to bring home a woman

her?”

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

it you who’s

“You…”

deep voice

and smiling, settled on a

as she quietly awaited Seth’s next

you here to celebrate, not to start a scene and make

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