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.

up, you know. Getting angry is bad

life, Seth and I will be

Enter title…

coldly and then let out a

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

off.”d2

she looked at Danielle, who seemed to

Cicely gave a faint smile. “How shameless are

for you, even if you wish for a life

it, and neither will Seth. Even blood

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

to live? How patient do

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

someone disabled?”

violently as she glared at

to her most vulnerable

second that you’re off the hook just

even dream of running away. You

die, I will dig you up from your grave and lash

Eat up. Maybe if you get better soon, you

don’t blame me for bullying

the neatly laid

detached

I were you, I wouldn’t starve myself

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

annoying.”

it froze in place. To eat or not

Cicely would win.

appetite. Please,

looked up at the nurse standing by. “Keep an eye on her.

she eats or

“Understood.”

a deep

again, turning

could take two steps, the door swung open from the

darkening as the

Cicely brought a surge of intense hatred to

from the restroom, rushed in,

front of Cicely.

standing behind Issac, furrowed her brows as she recalled

opened the door. She reached out and pushed Issac

feeling any

teeth clenched as he

mixed with rage.

smiled, “Mr. Ray, don’t you

took advantage of me

haven’t even come to settle that score yet, and here you are looking

castrated you myself.”

words hit

Cicely,” Ray stammered, “Seth never told

night?”

“Does what he say negate the

raped me?”

she added, “I’m aware of

put our grievances aside for

Mr. Ray, get your facts straight. It

mess, not anyone else’s doing.

dependent. Let’s not make her

to the exchange, could

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

course, I know Danielle

nodded with a smile, “Then I must have misunderstood.

cleared up, I’ll take my

they left the hospital room. “Ray wasn’t involved in

hold him accountable. He’s been hospitalized

I didn’t let

her hands

brought back the chaos of

the fear, so vivid and terrifying that even

shudder.

“Miss?”

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

been skeptical. A rich playboy,

suddenly proclaiming true feelings for

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

“Not perhaps. With his family

this charade for Danielle. It’s clear

accident was orchestrated by his family for her

at the

Danielle so much he’d nearly get her

*

Ray stood by Danielle’s bed. His

concern and guilt. “I’m sorry, I had no idea it would turn out this

Ray any more attention

shoveled food

indifference.

dog-eat-dog world. Regardless of the tactics used, your

looking up from her plate.

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

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

blown it for good.”

hands were clenched so tight his knuckles were white,

orchestrated the downfall

I’ve told you not to

imagine. My dad said the moment he entered

started his agency, he had his sights set on

run by a guy who hasn’t graduated

relied on these things to make everyone relax their guard against him,

fatal blow. He

wasn’t

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

the receiving end

of color. She had pondered this question before, but

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

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

you wouldn’t believe

up before. I’ve checked with

rough road ahead. I came here

to ask you

still didn’t look up, her voice restrained and

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

your life to save him, or was it just a ploy

turned to look at Ray.

Even with a motive, my only desire was to win him

melancholic smile. “It’s different. The

be so obstinate. If you knew the crash

would you still have

fork down and looked up at him. “What

answer are you hoping

his lips together.

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

her quietly. “I didn’t expect you to brush

If I had died, what would be the point of

or not, that’s the answer I

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

like denying

would, but since I can’t, I

this composed yet so

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

was no telling what kind

to.

*

the elevator on the ground floor, only

standing across the

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

furrowed imperceptibly when he saw

purse slackened for a moment

with a familiar, faint smile on her face. “You’re

was heavy. “You hate hospitals. What

episode. Came

After a brief silence, she glanced at him coolly. “I

in bullying a cripple,

after Cicely arrived at

instantly grasped what Seth was worried about. “Mr.

here on your behalf to check on Miss Danielle,

it might

faltered

neck,

subtle smile at the corners of her eyes and lips

moods are volatile, and your presence might

even leading to harm.”

light smile. “I have Issac with me. Do

could hurt me when I’m fully

sooner she recovers, the sooner I can

ties with her.”

Cicely replied, hands tucked into the pockets

braved the disgust and

demeanor. No overt anger, just a

she displayed it, the clearer Seth could sense

sarcasm and rebellion.

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

learned just a week

his touch. “Whether I have eaten

join me. And as it

meal with

such blunt

question floated into Seth’s ears,

he looked up to find the woman already

answer, as if the question itself had

conclusion in her

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

car and pondered for a

visit Dad at the

“Alright.”

the gates of the

at the sprawling manor, feeling an unexpected

dark green pines stood tall but failed to bring

vitality.

brows, and the already somewhat suppressed

of the car and walked

empty, with servants occasionally

seemed to be cautious. “Miss, you’re

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

give us

glanced upstairs,

and was reading in the study.

he’s fallen asleep.”

he have

made some buckwheat

ascent up the stairs, turning to look

step, “And what else?”

hesitated, “There were a couple

deepened as she turned and headed

ordered the servants to bring out

buckwheat wraps remained, along

of carrots and celery, the other a chilled

of ham and cheese.

of a nearby chair, she lifted her gaze to the

prepared for

frightened to reply, their heads lowered in

helplessly, “Sir has

for these dishes. Even if we prepared more,

them. Elderly folks’ meals are quite simple.

says there’s no need to cook so

not to doubt his words, but

dining table was always

the study, she found Creighton

resting on his chest, his head tilted, seemingly

Cicely, and her eyes began

one master. That grand dining table now

corner for his

in love, insisting

father alone in the

blamed herself deeply in

didn’t wake Creighton, gently covering

out of the study.

his nap and came downstairs to

something with the servants, his face lit up with

didn’t you tell

to hide before I

“You’re not fighting with Seth

so many quarrels?”

onto the couch. “He’s busy with work,

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

for

nodded, “You’ll have to ask him. He listens to you more than he

to me.”

talk to

Creighton for the rest of the afternoon. She

demanding take-backs

amused and exasperated.

father and son squared

occasionally chiming in with unsolicited

“Silence is golden; don’t meddle

afternoon was lively and bustling, and even

Ellis family seemed to have returned to how it used

be.

dinner, Creighton inquired

busy to make it back. Creighton frowned,

you two really

us to be alright, will

Creighton relented.

a message. [I’m at

coming home tonight.]

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

home. After all, she couldn’t

anything amiss.

and she

the Ellis

to assist Seth

your message imply for

rack, her voice neutral, “No, it was just to let

know.”

unavoidable, there’s no reason for

your message as an invitation for us to stay

respond, he had pulled her

living room. “Good

the couple’s closeness, smiled,

few

“Not yet.”

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

The dishes were all tailored to his

hadn’t planned on joining him for dinner, but as she stepped out,

her father and Seth in the

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

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

“Just came out to

the coffee table, bending

to the

Enter title…

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

he glance up at her. “If you

Ellis family estate isn’t as cozy

water bottle, her expression nonchalant. “There’s

here for

emotion crossed Seth’s brow as

set down

not explain myself clearly

that you’ve explained it,

“I said

the

dabbed his mouth with a napkin, “So you’re telling me you’ve decided

here just on a

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

short on time. In fact, on my way

on staying, but then I saw my dad and

he could use some company.

I’m not fighting with

was impassive, her lips

last part, coupled with her subtle expression,

been placed on the question she had left lingering

noon.

If

you want

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

home, nothing’s

casually took a sip from his water glass. “As you

surprised by his easy acquiescence, but the

even if he disagreed

came to understand why

such an easy compromise.

and

her what their conversation would be about—nothing

matters.

shopping app for little home

and notebooks with pens. Not that

she liked

door was knocked, the servant opened it to

of frost, stepping inside. “Ms. Cicely,

him, “How heartless, sending you

middle of the night

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

discussing matters. You can sit

need, I just have an errand. Mr. Seth

I’ll be on my way

looked up, turned around,

Brody, seeing this, quickly directed the servant to

suitcase upstairs.

didn’t linger, bidding

of milk. After finishing her milk, Cicely

upstairs.

talk about for

The servant had refilled

went to the

been a while since

temperature, she slid into the tub

was a view of the

It seemed they had

especially for her return.

she had asked her

at them had become a habit during her

edge of the bathtub, staring at that

the edge of the tub, twisted a hot

over her eyes.

dripped into the water,

eyes, she didn’t move again. She drifted in and

felt a sudden chill.

the coolness, and she instinctively slid

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

away, and she looked up to see the man frowning at her from

side of the tub.

be the first to

but it was by the

room had dissipated when he

feel cold.

did, guess who’d be to blame.” Cicely tried to shake off his grip, but he let

he stood next to her and began to undress in a

“What are you

missing a beat, dropping

does one do

grabbed the towel beside the tub

could leave, she was

towel to her chest and glared up at him. “Seth!

to do?”

at the woman in his arms, her

than usual. He smirked,

with a voice that was low and enticing.

indignation deflated embarrassingly, “You should

without drowning.”

Compared to her quiet, gentle demeanor,

preferred her current bold, even if

demeanor.

thorny retort, he began to run his fingers through her wet

your hair

“No.”

warm spray of the

waited for her consent before turning on the shower. A

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

but that this man

before it even took

still, not moving an inch, as the towel

away by

her arms crossing in front of

modesty she could.

into her hair with patience, massaging her

chest to rinse it clean with the

closed, Cicely considered

all, there were more than a couple

fallen for

he nudged

he took a

a cool expression, Cicely

you planning to

there any reason

to your apartment, it’s quite a trek

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

will.”

flicker of anger tinged Cicely’s

a smile as he drew closer

is nothing compared to

better.”

sleep by

drifted leisurely over

contours of her body.

imperceptibly, and he reached out to pull

water from the shower

her eyes closed to prevent water from flowing into

and cryptic response, which left her

she suddenly felt something insistent pressing

Seth had already set the showerhead aside, his

against hers. “We should get

go. I can dry

we’re not going out

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

with a familiarity that made it all too

out. She hit his shoulder twice, more

than pain. “This is

it wasn’t convenient, but you seemed not to

keep it down in a

legs was wrapped around his waist, and as

she was on

turning off the hairdryer and slipping her

away from him, her soft hair spreading across the

other side of the bed, facing

away, his long

resist, knowing he’d only persist if

too exhausted to continue the

*

The next day.

already gone. The patchy

ones

was considerate, gentle, and protective—or so he

it. Yet now, with her body covered

all too pleased.

into her loose loungewear,

listless, she

morning exercise and were already

Seeing Cicely, Creighton shook his head with a

really should fix that habit of skipping

milk offered by the servant,

in is the best part of

for your health, and too

the most important meal. Why are

didn’t you leave

irritation left Cicely speechless

office. Why would I leave

duh! Perfect timing with your holiday. You could

ending up

showing clear reluctance. “No, he

he didn’t mention

at passing the

really didn’t tell

she genuinely didn’t know,

your grandfather to

come?”

curled her legs onto the couch, resting her elbow

of

you’ll have lunch by yourself at

were already leaving her

night before, Danielle’s name had come up

her alone in the hospital while the rest

a table was incredibly inappropriate and heartless.

were set to visit

say the

to Danielle would have

returned in time for

first, while Cicely sat with Creighton and

before going up to her bedroom, where Seth was

desk.

a word, she went to the bathroom, and

her. After a quick shower,

bed to play

long after, it seemed like Seth had finished his

the bed, walked over, brushed

peck on the lips. “I’m going to shower.

Wait for me,

can you be? It’s been

you up to?”

hint of teasing, “What

rest tonight?”

mumbled, “Then what am

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

him gently, “Then hurry up and

her, Seth’s body

penetrating with

air. She lifted her hands

soft whimper. It was only

on her, just barely.

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

off guard with their unintentional cuteness,

to death? I

Diaz,” he

Cicely’s drowsy

handsome face just inches from hers. A gentle smile tinged her

penalty for self-justification, then what

you misunderstand me? Shouldn’t I

held the same amused expression, yet a chill seemed

me any way

and seriously

that because I’m so into

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

pinched her beautifully curved jawline, “So,

heart to give

ran her hand across his face, her

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

in her eyes, Seth felt a

her smooth chin,

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

ever heard, love

the start,

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

and brows soft with

will. I wouldn’t choose to

felt like a bee sting to the nerve, his dark

let go of Cicely’s chin and

shirt was already missing two buttons that

unfastened the rest.

tonight. It’s still early, so be good

paused, “If you’re

you up my way.”

to find out what

Cicely was propped up in

video game. She glanced at him,

game.

climbed into bed and snatched the phone from her hands. Cicely

“Is there something you need to

me at the office tomorrow

swiped and tapped

“I don’t know anything about

do there?”

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

thing in

I have

girl? Do you think your dad asking

on you

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

in the future, your only sure bet is the Ellis

Ellis family forever.

a weak moment and start eating away

you won’t even know where

around you is harmlessly

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

isn’t it yours too? What’s there to argue

when truly in your own hands,

him quietly, “What makes you insecure? You think one day

you? Or maybe you want to leave me

Turning to her, his gazes were

sounds like you’re quite convinced

a trail of broken

beyond these two

expression didn’t improve, and he

their depths replaced by

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

why I

her phone back, “I’ve downloaded some files

you can before sleep, and

understand tomorrow.”

the phone, the document app he had just downloaded

a blur of text. “What will

of bed, lifting

need to reflect. Naturally, I can’t stay by your side

mood.”

watched him get up, grab a coat,

all too well; it wasn’t about reflection. The man was

a tantrum.

＊

two hours. Approaching

face looking worse

in the bedroom, the lights had

Seeing the woman sleeping with the phone in her

reignited.

Heartless woman.

phone from her hand and glanced at

she hadn’t closed.

for her before

face and

wonder Creighton was in a rush

phone and tossing it aside, he

he pulled

arms and scent,

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

wanted to wake her up, maybe

she fell silent again, and any further pursuit

petty.

＊

the next morning, he woke Cicely with a kiss

than a cup of strong coffee. Even for school,

morning grumpiness, she was

robbed of breath.

kicked him hard a couple of times. “Are you

mind?!”

mischievous grin as he swung his

shine, off

am not going.” Cicely yanked the comforter over

your face.” Seth’s voice carried a

Cicely didn’t budge.

make me do

off with a huff, sat up, and

strength could she

pillow

close by, and the pillow barely registered

over this, I’m not

and placed it back on the

up by the time I’m out, I’ll just carry you to

to wake you up for the second

back to sleep.”

Seth turned away,

into a sly

the covers aside and stomped off to the bathroom,

busy squeezing toothpaste onto his brush. He watched

reflection in the mirror.

his eyebrows, he

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

She glanced at their reflection. Seth nonchalantly

aside.

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

something as simple as toothpaste. The frothy

slight smile of

breakfast, they headed to the Ellis Corporation

the document from last night did you read?” Seth pretended

to know anything.

am I supposed to

smiled and

why

He had prepared a new desk and chair in the corner, waiting

immediate deployment.

are on the computer;

face

to anticipate this excuse, “There are

no matter what excuse she came up with,

answer for it. Reluctantly, she moved to the desk and found

pile of folders.

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

will you be

a C&P

“You’re leaving me here

in the office

reading; I’ll

opened her mouth to retort but held back.

glanced at her before leaving

around, a clear sign she was up to no

she possibly stir up

after Seth left, Cicely did take the documents seriously

marks with her pen, but within

and her phone

left the office,

the drawers, fiddled with the

on a black leather

with her phone and

and

Seth returned before noon. Cicely sat there, the

student.

did you

new to me,

files in a whole morning and you’re

stung.

the fact that

the black

her doodles—a passable cartoon portrait, and

a confident,

her ‘artwork’ and flushed slightly, but quickly adopted an air

nonchalance.

pursed his lips and took a

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

tidied the documents away. Seth

hungry,” she declared as

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

Come over here.”

No complaints

the files and approached him. Before she

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

Cicely said, leaning back with a wary

tightened around her waist, his voice

one taking

“What do you mean?”

chuckled softly, “Back in the day, you’d concoct all kinds of schemes

tutor you. Sweet and respectful. Now, you

attitude. If that’s

is?”

“Respectful? That’s

it’s intentional, Mr.

impunity, but

feel like harboring

our current relationship, that would mean cheating,

Seth was momentarily speechless.

smiled, “What’s for

it’s to

back

his expression and

Cicely watched him—

man was

Charlie from a local diner,

seemed to have no intention

“Aren’t you eating?”

was drowned out by

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

suffused with the unmistakable vibe of

a big deal’.

eat all this by myself?” she asked,

food, while he

her way.

leave it.

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

tonight.”

looked up at her with an icy

the couch and picked up the elegantly wrapped

coolly, “Nobody said we have to sleep

until you’re

“How long

attitude with me?”

the innocent, “Isn’t it you who’s been

you sure you want to keep butting heads

grip on her silverware tightened before

to

me, and I’ll sleep

Seth fell silent.

*

the Ellis Corporation since

and had stayed

under

department heads for updates

reports and progress reviews, the office atmosphere was tense

the Ellis family, even if it was just

she couldn’t afford to

the workday approached, Cicely found

leaders’ trembling,

hadn’t made much progress

hadn’t commented on it.

Mom’s shopping nearby, and we’ll drive her

in a while.”

twitched, “I should

need, I’ve

and moved to

Cicely wasn’t the least

Cicely knew

as they come.

best to steer clear. It wasn’t like

Patty wasn’t

naturally, Cicely wasn’t about to freeze

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

around Seth’s.

offered them some tea

Enter title…

a call and returned

a sip of warm water from his

minutes of silence, Seth broke the ice. “Spit

fascinating about my face?”d2

She’d always been told if

him. But with him always buzzing around, she

hadn’t even mentioned

her hair,

said nonchalantly, “I overheard General Manager

talking about this new

old models.

family has the know-how and the development rights.

a point. Instead of bidding and

Diaz International? Given the ties

family, why haven’t you considered

big fish like the

all eyeing the Ellis project. Diaz

Ellis family’s offer

If the Ellis family picks Diaz International, the rest can just sit

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

not up for it, or do you just chicken

is it just that you flat-out don’t

with the Ellis family?”

the Ellis Corporation, I can

are all more fitting partners than Diaz International.

work with the Ellis family,

Corporation to make things easier

surprised by his stance. “What’s wrong with

the bottom line is what counts. Why sweat the

pride for you, I’ll bang the

twitched into a half-smile.

brows. “Too scared to take the big deals,

the point of running

it up. That way, you wouldn’t have to worry about any flak

that’s actually a pretty solid

more she thought about it, the more feasible it

eyes

his silence, Cicely propped her chin in her hands

through with that? Assess the value

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

cut you in on

How about

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

in Diaz International?”

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

mother, it’s probably Diaz International, left

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

an edge over you. But Diaz International?

might just be it.”

gaze was meaningful and unfathomable as he watched

the last bit of Diaz International. So what if I say

the sofa, with a carefree smile on

to

lips tightened, clearly displeased

reaction, Cicely just smiled thinly. “Then

International under the Ellis

International ever do to tick you

a familiar tone that belonged to none other than

glanced at her mug, then switched on her charm as she

was already standing opposite her, her face a

wariness.

thinking out loud. Then I figured it wasn’t such a bad idea after

family ain’t too shabby, right? Especially since

soon. No need to

“The future is the future. You bite off only

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

International.”

her eyes carrying a mild, nonchalant

wasn’t bringing

since Seth had already stood up, his expression far

go.”

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

if forcefully suppressing a multitude of

dinner at the

might be the real

night was

drive back to the Ellis residence, Seth took the wheel

“Where are you off

“Same as today.”

in the office

there, I’ll

the car window, twirling

her slender finger.

silent for a few seconds before slowly

half-smile, “Should I prepare some new sketchbooks

you?”

head, “No need,

Seth fell silent.

butler welcomed them respectfully. “Miss, we

they’ve been

now, I can bring them out for

shoes and said, “Well, bring them out,

packages. Cicely

waterproof mat and started to slice open the

knife.

–

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

manuals was many times

when she read documents.

Seth showered, he came down to find Cicely amidst

freshen up;

a white travel

a notable heft, and engraved on it was

her name beneath. Beside her was

and name. The rest of the items were pairs,

light.

think of buying

coming back this time did I realize

it

still engrossed in the small

the most natural thing in the world.

to get

next morning, seeing the white

contentedly.

the Ellis estate and setting the staff to work, Seth

still scattered, but after

were much the same as what she’d

department heads yesterday.

she set the paperwork aside, paced the office, and

knock on the door.

arms laden with parcels. “Ms. Cicely,

addressed to you.”

at the sight, “Put them on the

resumed her task with the

noon, Seth returned to an office transformed. His desk now

a new pen holder, several stylographs, a fresh mouse

couple of notebooks.

mirrored his,

with a cushion

of flowers had even appeared

question the wisdom of leaving

she’d done nothing

“What’s for

work

raised three fingers, then hesitantly

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

bit of Cicely’s boredom—and her interest

everything but work.

No surprise there.

unaware of its contents, only

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

closed the video.

full of text. Seth looked at

the whole morning

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

gaze drifted over the new objects on the

I’ll take

escaping the office for a meal was music to

*

Seth stayed at the Ellis

for reports and

and even if Cicely wasn’t

about company affairs, she couldn’t

it was time

a hectic affair.

International, and C&P were

at

by sky bridges. The topfloor ballrooms

the south, the other north,

below Diaz International’s—a

with the Ellis Corporation.

a silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress with

knee. She wore a pair of silver high-heeled

dressed as others, she still stood out as the

the moment of her birth, Cicely seemed destined

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

her side was distractingly handsome, a sight

look away. Cicely had everything people longed

to the Diaz International gala to

expected pleasantries, to clink glasses

whisking her away to

Ellis Corporation gala was orchestrated

father present, the

at the Ellis Corporation gala, they were

well-wishes, almost like

guests, receiving blessings

seats, Cicely mused aloud, “Isn’t

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

are taking care of

Cicely teased with a mischievous smile, “I

are a lot of celebrity beauties

“And

to take

Seth retorted, “If your intentions weren’t

have considered it.”

just want to admire

“Sure, one day I’ll bring them

personal viewing.”

the C&P

profile there, and even

whole. C&P, after its

grip, was the envy of

up to Seth was

a patient man, unwilling to waste time on those

ingratiate themselves with him.

a magnet for

event was

not long after,

he spoke to Seth.”Mr. Diaz, Ray got drunk at the C&P gala and has

a commotion over at Diaz

furrowed, and his demeanor darkened. As he stood to leave,

wrist,

be back soon,” he said, squeezing her shoulder

before following Charlie out.

was out of sight, then rose and trailed after

gala, Ray was slouched on the steps

nursing a nearly finished bottle of hard liquor. His face

he greeted Seth with a sneer, using

his feet and approached

each syllable with a bitterness that seemed

with venom. “You’re impressive,

coldly, flashing a thumbs-up at

seen just how ruthless

I can’t blame anyone

provoked you; we were just in

we had, you seized

hadn’t anticipated such drama on the eve

air, the

Seth’s tactics, about how

a whim because Ray had once made an indecent pass

Seth’s fiancée, this had incensed him enough

against Ray .

that it had been a premeditated strike. Now,

seemed to

a shareholder in your

place

when

who, even after waking from a hospital stay, clung

ten percent.

bitter, “Rest assured, I

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

I

company, so tell me, wouldn’t

ruined Diaz International, let you taste the

today?”

at Ray with icy detachment, “If

makes you think you can

to strip away the last shred of Ray’s dignity. Rage

replaced the drunken stupor in his

he might lunge at

vengeful fury.

onto the table next to Seth with

sharp shards scattering

sound of the breaking glass pierced through the

skip a beat. Instinctively, her feet moved

strides towards Seth, her high heels a clumsy match for

the jagged remains of the bottle at

out a breathless shout. Disregarding

forward, pulling Seth’s arm and embracing him

spun half a circle

to Seth, her

bright red blood fell onto Seth’s hand, and

in his arms seemed about to fall

moment.

gasp reverberated throughout the banquet

expected Cicely to intervene, felt a

on his

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

blade, seething with a murderous aura

glared at Ray.

shot through Cicely’s

anger, she gripped his clothes tightly, her

she managed

tall.

gaze softened as it landed on her pale,

slap, Cicely slapped him. Stunned, he

straight. Have you

do you think provoking him will do you now? What if he

you?!”

her

clear tremble.

the physical reaction to her

in her eyes made it clear to him—she

fear, anger, or

pain gripped his heart as he surveyed

a clear cut on her

else are you

and

of unfamiliar panic and restlessness

low voice, “Talk to

to crumble

and broke down

her face. “My… my ankle hurts,”

her last desperate lunge to

her high heels and, with a grimace,

his arms.

to the ground by

with a knee on his

beside Seth and was quick to react when Ray

cry had caused him a moment’s hesitation. In

broken bottle had swung

Cicely had been

carried Cicely away, Ray, pinned down by

only shout at Seth’s retreating figure

arrogant. One day, you’ll pay for

done!”

didn’t falter in

*

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

frenzy.

diagnosis: a sprained ankle and a two-centimeter laceration

but

then, she had already been treated, her

Cicely’s eyes were red and swollen from

and Creighton, she greeted them with a

“Dad.”

ended a phone call and returned

to the local police station for the time being. Seth gave a brief nod to the Erik

their concern

which he channeled into anger

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

new year, this happens!

“it’s not his fault. I was

listen and followed

her a glare. “Am I not allowed to

Enter title…

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

make the pain stop,

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

until all his words were stuffed

he not see through

watched Cicely, her hair somewhat disheveled but

moment at the gala when she had

him

Totally unexpected.

shock and anger now took on

could process these swirling emotions, the doctor’s

the doctor, then

with red eyes and pursed lips,

could be, then she lifted her arms and wrapped them around

knees, lifting her from

silent understanding brought a slight sense of peace

watching.

Cicely and Seth back to

the Ellis residence was

she had never mentioned leaving the Ellis

gala, Seth stayed at the Ellis residence to

Cicely company.

– any time Cicely

leaving her side. Apart

impeccable in his

complaint-free actions were

to the bed where the doctor

waiting.

process, despite the

A slight shift in pressure and Cicely

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

tense as a

residence, any sitting with Creighton that lasted

turned

left alone and bored in her room, insisted Seth take her

went, even if it was just to the living

most of their

the mechanical manufacturing issues

family.

which should have been settled before

to

asked Seth if Diaz International was interested in taking

it had

didn’t dwell on

on to other matters.

in company

Seth’s voice and being able

the Ellis residence just before the new year. After

been injured protecting Seth, Patty

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

on previous

a lavish dinner for her. She

brought up the topic of the New Year’s Eve

Cicely back to the

was surprised, as Patty’s mood

legally married, spending New Year’s at

was the most appropriate and normal thing to

moment, glanced at the young

somewhat absent-mindedly.

reaction, suddenly felt

was not at home, the vastness of

had returned to spend a

for festive gatherings, would leave

*

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

residence.

them to pick up Danielle from the

Creighton agreed that leaving Danielle alone in the hospital

After negotiating with the

to bring

comment. However, the image

each other, feels

liven things up, serving as company for

thought of Danielle’s haughty, perpetually stern face

might be

bustling since yesterday,

for the New Year’s Eve

a sumptuous feast knowing Miss Danielle

anyone at the hospital. And Cicely, arriving at

who should have

Her face immediately

Danielle. When she saw Seth carrying

room, her expression paused for

smiling.

in her wheelchair, also had a momentary freeze

crossed her face, but she brushed it aside. “Seth, you

that made it

here?” Seth

the couch. His voice was as flat as the calm before

storm.

her lip, hands clasped tightly, not saying

her here. We couldn’t leave her all alone in the

holidays, could we?”

her chest,

to let her emotions

dad who applied for her discharge. If

family. You stay here

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

ashamed?”

embarrassed, turned even more mortified after

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

was barely able to contain her fury. “The guest

got herself injured saving Seth’s

wrong

in taking care of her every

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

and play the

the Ellis family’s

turned pale with anger, and she whirled to

pointed at Cicely. “This is

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

her?”

don’t take your dissatisfaction

you who’s making

“You…”

deep voice

light and smiling, settled on

she quietly awaited Seth’s

you here to celebrate, not to start

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