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.

worked up, you know. Getting angry is bad

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

Enter title…

at her coldly and then let

you? If I really am disabled for life, you’ll

off.”d2

slightly as she looked at Danielle, who seemed to

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

if you wish for a life of disability,

will Seth. Even blood relatives fed up after years

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

decades to live? How patient do

out? Or

someone disabled?”

lips trembled violently as she glared at Cicely. Each word was

her

for a second that you’re off the

even dream of running away. You were so

up from your grave and lash your

if you get better soon, you might be able to slap me

me for bullying

Danielle eyed the neatly laid out food

icy, detached voice rang out

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

to eat, that’s

annoying.”

froze in place. To

Cicely would win.

appetite. Please,

at the nurse standing by. “Keep an eye

she eats

“Understood.”

took a

her again, turning towards the door to

could take two steps, the door

as the man who

Cicely brought a surge of intense

just returned from the restroom, rushed in, positioning himself

front of Cicely.

her brows as she

opened the door. She reached out and

Ray, feeling

face stiffened, his teeth clenched as

mixed with rage.

“Mr. Ray, don’t you think

of me that night when

come to settle that score yet, and here you are

castrated you myself.”

words hit

Cicely,” Ray stammered, “Seth never told

night?”

gaze lowered slightly, “Does what he say

raped me?”

faint smile, she

put our

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

else’s doing. Ms. Danielle is

not make her situation any

listening to the exchange, could hardly believe the

expression flustered,

know Danielle is

nodded with a

I’ll take my

left the

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

by yesterday, but I didn’t let him

her hands until

the chaos of that night, the

and terrifying that even the mere thought of it made

shudder.

“Miss?”

blinked away the memories, “It seems Mr.

playboy, surrounded by a constant

suddenly proclaiming true feelings for one seemed

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

family on

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

this accident was orchestrated by his

frowned at

nearly get her killed? That seemed a

*

room, Ray stood by Danielle’s bed. His

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

the mood to give Ray any more attention than she had

she shoveled food into her mouth

indifference.

Regardless of the tactics used,

from her

happening to him now, and your family is

at least a chance for a comeback, but

blown it for good.”

his knuckles were

forehead. “He orchestrated the downfall of

I’ve told you not to be

you can imagine. My dad said

his sights set

run by a guy who hasn’t graduated

things to make everyone relax their

blow. He played innocent but was

and ruthless. That night, I wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve never

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

receiving end of

of color. She had pondered this question

into it. She didn’t want to

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

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

I’ve checked with

is optimistic, albeit a rough road ahead. I came here today to see

to ask

look up, her voice restrained and flat. “Go

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

to save him, or was it just

finally turned to look at Ray. “Does

only desire was to win

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

be so obstinate. If you knew the

you still have stepped

her fork down and looked up at him.

are

lips together.

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

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

brushing you off. If I had died,

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

have to play the villain in front of me to push me

I stop caring for you, it’s like

would, but since I can’t, I need to find a

never seen Ray this composed yet so obsessively

She was afraid of Ray in this

no telling what kind of

to.

*

the elevator on the ground

standing across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

brow furrowed imperceptibly when he saw

on her purse slackened for a moment then tightened. She

with a familiar, faint smile on

“You hate hospitals. What

she had another episode. Came to check on her with

brief silence, she glanced at him

bullying a cripple, so don’t

here not long after Cicely arrived

instantly grasped what Seth

behalf to check on

it might

faltered for

around her neck, presenting only her

subtle smile at the corners of her eyes and

and your

even leading to harm.”

up at him with a light smile. “I have Issac with me. Do

me when I’m fully able

“The sooner she recovers, the

ties with her.”

into

why I braved the

No overt anger, just a serene and gentle

the more she displayed it, the clearer Seth could

sarcasm and rebellion.

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

he’d learned just

Cicely stepped aside, avoiding his

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

a meal

blunt rejection,

you ever trusted me?” The question floated into

pause, he looked up to find the woman

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

conclusion in her

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

into the car and pondered for a moment,

at the Ellis

“Alright.”

gates

at the sprawling

tall but failed to bring any

vitality.

furrowed her brows, and the already somewhat suppressed

a bit. She got out of the car and walked towards the

was empty, with servants occasionally moving about in

be cautious. “Miss, you’re

of her arrival, a look

didn’t you give us a heads

glanced upstairs, “Where’s

too long ago and

he’s fallen asleep.”

he

made some

stairs, turning to look at Brody from the

step, “And what else?”

hesitated, “There were a

she turned and headed straight

face, she ordered the servants to bring out what

plate of the brownish buckwheat wraps remained, along with two

salad of carrots and celery, the other

of ham and cheese.

a nearby chair, she lifted her gaze to

prepared for my

servants were too frightened to reply, their heads lowered

Brody said helplessly, “Sir has been

asked for these dishes. Even if

folks’ meals

says there’s no need to cook so

not to doubt his

family’s dining table was always a feast

she found Creighton slumped

on his chest, his head tilted, seemingly asleep. A

and her eyes began

now had but one master. That

humble corner for his simple

head over heels in love, insisting on living

her father alone

blamed herself deeply in

wake Creighton, gently covering him with a

out of the study.

Creighton woke from his nap and came

with the servants, his face lit up

didn’t you tell

got secrets to

glared at her. “You’re not fighting with

many

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

missing all the home-cooked meals.

for dinner

have to ask him. He listens

to me.”

talk to

for the

demanding

amused and exasperated.

son squared off while she placed bets and

in with

“Silence is golden; don’t meddle

and bustling,

to have returned to

be.

dinner, Creighton

busy to make it back. Creighton frowned, giving her

“Are you

us to be alright,

Creighton relented.

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

coming home tonight.]

a dramatic

she couldn’t

anything amiss.

reply, and she

at the Ellis estate’s doorstep. Cicely concealed

moved to assist Seth with his coat. “Why are you

message imply for

hung his coat on the rack, her voice neutral, “No, it was just

know.”

no reason for a married couple

your message as an invitation for

he had pulled her

into the living room. “Good

closeness, smiled, “I’ve

past few

“Not yet.”

whip up a few

dishes were all tailored

planned on joining him for dinner, but as

her father and

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

two aren’t fighting, are

“Just came out

made her way over to the coffee

headed back to

Enter title…

her return to dine with

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

estate isn’t as cozy

her expression nonchalant. “There’s no fight.

for the near

of emotion crossed Seth’s brow

down his

I not explain

very well. Now that you’ve explained it,

water bottle for a sip, “I said

wasting time over the same

his mouth with a napkin, “So you’re telling

back here just

on a reason, I have some. I’m

fact,

staying, but then I saw my dad and changed

for me, but he could

I’m not fighting with

face was impassive, her lips curled

with her subtle expression,

had been placed on the question she had left

noon.

he believe it? If not, she would

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

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

home,

casually took a sip from his water

was surprised by his easy acquiescence, but the feeling

disagreed today, it

why he mentioned inconvenience

such an easy compromise.

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

her what their conversation would be

matters.

app for

LEGO sets, and notebooks with pens. Not that

she liked doodling when

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

stepping inside. “Ms. Cicely,

him, “How heartless, sending you out in

middle of the

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

discussing matters. You can sit

an errand. Mr. Seth asked me

I’ll be on

around, and noticed

this, quickly directed the

suitcase upstairs.

linger, bidding farewell

a glass of milk. After finishing her milk,

upstairs.

could those men possibly have to talk about for so long

out? The servant had

clothes and went to the

been a while since she’d indulged

temperature, she slid into the tub and let out a

window was a view of the

by rotating ground lights. It

especially for her return.

past, out of boredom, she had asked her father to

the years, glimpsing at them had become a habit during

edge of the bathtub,

the tub, twisted

over her eyes.

water, soothing her fatigue.

didn’t move again. She drifted in and out of sleep until

felt a sudden chill.

the water felt the coolness, and she instinctively slid

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

she looked up to see the man frowning

side of the tub.

to be the first to

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

The warmth of the room had

feel cold.

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

he stood next to her and began to undress

frowned, “What are you

without missing a beat, dropping his clothes

one do in

paused, grabbed the towel beside the tub to cover

step out. Before she could leave, she was scooped up into his

the towel to her chest and glared up

to do?”

in his arms, her face flushed

radiant than usual. He smirked,

low and enticing. “Share a shower with

embarrassingly, “You

without drowning.”

to her quiet, gentle demeanor, always

preferred her current

demeanor.

run his fingers

your hair

“No.”

of the shower

hadn’t waited for her consent before turning on the shower.

hand covered her eyes. “Close

that this

before it even

still, not moving an inch, as the towel she’d

away

arms crossing in front of her,

modesty she could.

her hair with patience, massaging her

his chest to rinse

her head lowered and eyes closed, Cicely

without merit. After all, there were

for this

conditioner to her hair, he nudged her toward the wall

he took a quick

with a cool expression,

Are you planning to stay

any reason I

apartment, it’s quite a trek

staying here. I can’t exactly haul

will.”

anger tinged

he drew closer to her.

nothing compared to spending a whole night

better.”

can’t sleep by

I?” Seth’s gaze drifted leisurely

contours of her body.

and he reached

warm water from the shower cascading over

her eyes closed to prevent water

succinct and cryptic response,

insistent pressing against

realization, Seth had already set the showerhead

hers. “We should

go. I can dry it

we’re not going

lips closed over hers abruptly. His leg

he moved with a familiarity

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

pain. “This is

convenient, but you seemed not to

to keep it down

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

vision blurred until she was on the

and slipping her into

She turned away from him, her soft hair spreading

circled to the other side of the bed,

his long arm

had the strength to resist, knowing he’d only persist if

was too exhausted to continue

*

The next day.

Cicely woke up, Seth was already gone. The

with new ones

so

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

all too pleased.

slipping into her loose loungewear,

and listless, she

returned from their morning exercise and were

head with a mix of

“You really should fix

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

couch. “Sleeping in is the best part of

bad for your

either. Breakfast is the most important meal. Why are

you leave with

left Cicely

went to the office. Why would I leave with

Perfect timing with your holiday. You could learn

ending up clueless. What? Didn’t Seth tell

face showing clear reluctance. “No,

he didn’t

“You’re quite good at passing

he really

know, Creighton

grandfather to see Danielle.

come?”

her legs onto the couch, resting her

posture a blend of

have lunch by yourself

and they were

before, Danielle’s name had come

leaving her alone in the hospital while the

a table was incredibly inappropriate

were set to visit the hospital the next

dared say

have a problem with

returned in time for dinner. His timing

he headed upstairs first, while Cicely sat with

her bedroom, where Seth was busy at

desk.

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

a quick shower, she emerged to find Seth

to

long after, it seemed like Seth had finished his

brushed her

to give her a gentle peck on the lips. “I’m going to shower. Don’t fall

for

you be? It’s been days on end. What

you up to?”

with a hint of teasing,

rest tonight?”

mumbled, “Then what am

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

him gently, “Then hurry up

away by her, Seth’s

with unrestrained

for air. She lifted her

a soft whimper. It was only then that Seth

on her, just barely.

you trying to kiss me to death?”

caught Seth off guard with

“Kiss you to death? I wouldn’t dream

he said with a playful tone,

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

from hers. A gentle

warrants a penalty for

Shouldn’t I

the same amused expression, yet a

smile. “Go ahead. Punish me any way

head, calmly and seriously meeting his gaze. “You

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

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

jawline,

give

raised an eyebrow and ran her

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

her eyes, Seth felt a subtle

caressing her smooth chin, “You like

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

heard, love and

start, the more they might hate

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

brows soft with

doubt it will. I wouldn’t choose to hate

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

smile. He let go of Cicely’s chin and stood

two buttons

unfastened the rest.

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

then paused, “If

you up my way.”

out what his method of waking her might be.

shower, Cicely

a video game. She glanced at him, then refocused on the

game.

into bed and snatched the phone from her hands.

there something

join me at

swiped and tapped

know anything about business, what am I supposed

do there?”

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

in

I have

you think your dad asking you

on you for no

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

your life now or in the future, your

manage the Ellis family forever.

start

family, you won’t even know where to cry. Don’t be

around you

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

in your own hands, is

him quietly, “What makes you

maybe you want to leave me

to her, his gazes

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

a trail

But beyond these two

expression didn’t improve, and he

in their depths

quick to assume. In fact, instead of

reflecting on why

back, “I’ve downloaded some

before sleep, and ask

understand tomorrow.”

took the phone, the document app he

a blur of text. “What will you

glanced at her, then got out of bed, lifting the covers. “I’m not happy

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

mood.”

watched him get up, grab a coat, and

understood all too well; it wasn’t about

a tantrum.

＊

two hours. Approaching

face looking worse than

in the bedroom, the lights had

the phone in her arms, his

reignited.

Heartless woman.

into bed, taking the phone from her hand and

she hadn’t closed.

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

sleeping face and

wonder Creighton was in a rush to find her a

tossing it aside, he watched the woman sleep

as he pulled her

to the man’s arms and

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

moment, Seth wanted to wake her up,

she fell silent again, and any

petty.

＊

woke

cup of strong coffee. Even for school, Cicely rarely awoke

morning grumpiness,

robbed of breath.

away, she kicked him hard a couple of times.

mind?!”

a mischievous grin as he swung his legs out of bed,

shine, off to the

yanked

show your face.” Seth’s voice carried a

Cicely didn’t budge.

make me do this

off with a huff, sat up,

him, but what strength could she muster

pillow at

by, and the pillow

over this, I’m not going to

pillow, and placed it back on the bed,

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

me to wake you up for the second time, then

back to sleep.”

teeth in frustration. As Seth turned away,

a

and stomped off

toothpaste onto his brush. He

reflection in the mirror.

his eyebrows, he shifted aside

and Seth, as if

reflection. Seth

aside.

on her task, she started brushing. It

as toothpaste.

the slight smile of her

they headed to the

last night did you read?”

to know anything.

two pages. So what am I supposed

just smiled and didn’t

office, Cicely understood why he hadn’t

a new desk and chair in the corner,

immediate deployment.

are on the computer; you can

face

anticipate this excuse, “There are

no matter what excuse she came up with,

it. Reluctantly, she moved to the desk and found

pile of folders.

understand, and we can

you

a

“You’re leaving

in the

reading; I’ll

retort

glanced at her before leaving

had been darting around, a clear sign she was up

she possibly stir

after Seth left, Cicely did take

her pen, but

and her

office, returning after another half-hour to

through the drawers, fiddled with the

on a black leather notebook she found

with her phone and then, noticing the time, went

desk and the

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

student.

did you get through?” he

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

whole morning and you’re proud of that?”

stung.

the fact that I’m

his desk, noticing the black notebook

open, he found her

written in a confident,

‘artwork’ and flushed slightly, but quickly adopted

nonchalance.

took a deep breath, “Anything you

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

documents away. Seth waited for

declared as if it justified

and sank into his chair. “Lunch is

Come over here.”

No

she grudgingly clutched the files and

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

Cicely said, leaning back with a

her waist, his voice deep and serious,

taking

“What do you mean?”

the day, you’d concoct all

tutor you. Sweet and respectful. Now, you can’t even be bothered

and this half-hearted attitude. If

is?”

eyebrow, “Respectful? That’s because I harbored

it’s intentional, Mr.

reeked of impunity, but

feel like harboring

relationship, that would mean cheating, Mr.

Seth was momentarily speechless.

victorious, smiled, “What’s for

me, it’s to

pushed her away and leaned back

expression and

Cicely watched him—

man was

from a local diner, indeed Cicely’s favorite.

seemed to have no intention of

“Aren’t you eating?”

by the

flat “Not hungry.” His mood was as frosty

with the unmistakable vibe of ‘he’s upset,

a big deal’.

to eat all this by myself?”

table laden with food, while he didn’t even bother

her way.

you can’t eat it, leave it.

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

tonight.”

her

the couch and

said we have to sleep together every night. If you

until you’re

“How long are you planning to keep up

attitude with me?”

the innocent, “Isn’t it you who’s

you sure you want to

grip on her silverware

to watch

me, and

Seth fell silent.

*

Ellis Corporation

stayed in

but under

various department heads for updates

reviews, the office atmosphere was tense

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

couldn’t afford to

workday approached, Cicely found most of her attention

leaders’ trembling, overly respectful demeanors and

She hadn’t made much progress with the paperwork, but

hadn’t commented on it.

Mom’s shopping nearby, and we’ll

in a while.”

brow twitched, “I should probably let my

need, I’ve

to the

hadn’t arrived yetTo claim Cicely wasn’t the least bit fazed about

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

come. If Patty was in a good mood,

a bit more. If not, best to steer

Patty wasn’t

biting, and naturally, Cicely wasn’t

the door. She cozied up in the

around Seth’s.

offered them some tea

Enter title…

a call and returned after a few minutes,

sip of warm water from

minutes of silence, Seth broke the ice. “Spit it out, will you?

fascinating about my face?”d2

told if she didn’t

ask him. But with him always buzzing

even mentioned

of her hair, her palm warming against the porcelain

“I overheard

about this new mechanical equipment

to knock the socks off the old models. We

family has the know-how and the development rights.

of bidding and choosing another manufacturer,

to Diaz International? Given the

family, why haven’t you considered

fish like the Harper

Ellis project. Diaz International doesn’t have

with the Ellis family’s offer just

picks Diaz International, the rest can just sit on

so many would kill for that kind of opportunity.

just chicken out when you

is it just that you flat-out

with the Ellis family?”

interim head of the Ellis Corporation, I can say that

are all more fitting partners than Diaz International. And

with the Ellis family, are

Corporation to make things

predictably, wasn’t surprised by his stance. “What’s wrong

the bottom line is what counts. Why sweat the small

you,

mouth twitched into a

to take the

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

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

up. Hmm, that’s actually

she thought about it, the more feasible

his eyes but

silence, Cicely propped her chin in her hands and smiled at

we actually go through with

for you in the Ellis family? Or,

cut you

How

all this rigmarole

in Diaz International?”

“Just occurred to me, if there’s

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

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

that gives me an edge

might just be it.”

was meaningful and unfathomable as he

last bit of Diaz International. So what if I

the sofa, with a carefree smile on her

time to let

tightened, clearly displeased

thinly.

International under the Ellis family banner the best

do to tick

familiar tone that belonged

her mug, then switched on her charm

already standing opposite her, her

wariness.

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

ain’t too shabby, right? Especially since we

need to keep

“The future is the future. You bite off only as

heads-up, don’t even think about

International.”

arched an eyebrow, her eyes carrying a mild, nonchalant

to speak further. If Patty wasn’t bringing it up, neither would

had already stood up, his expression far from rosy.

go.”

at Cicely, probably mindful of Seth’s

suppressing

at the

be the real way to make her happy.

was

to the Ellis residence, Seth took the

are you

“Same as today.”

me alone in the office

there, I’ll disturb your

the car window,

her slender finger.

a few seconds

half-smile, “Should

you?”

her head, “No need, I’ve got my

Seth fell silent.

welcomed them respectfully. “Miss, we received

they’ve been temporarily stored in

them now, I can bring them

her shoes and said,

packages. Cicely sat cross-legged in

to slice open the parcels

knife.

– mugs, thermos cups, small decorations

only unpacked them but also studied

manuals was many times more

when she read documents.

Seth showered, he came down to find

“Go freshen up; we’re up early

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

and engraved on it was a portrait

beneath. Beside her was a matching black one,

of the items were

light.

think of

after coming back this time did I

and it feels

spoke while still engrossed in the small items,

the most natural thing in the world. Seth

to get

white tumbler in the car, Cicely

contentedly.

at the Ellis estate and setting the staff to

Cicely’s focus was still scattered, but after reviewing a couple

realized they were much the

department heads yesterday.

paced the office, and

knock on the door.

Shane, arms laden with parcels. “Ms. Cicely,

addressed to you.”

till now, perked up at the sight, “Put

resumed her task with

to an office transformed. His desk now

a new pen holder, several stylographs, a fresh mouse pad,

couple of notebooks.

the corner mirrored his, albeit with a

with a cushion on the

of flowers had even appeared on the

of leaving her alone in

though she’d done nothing out of the ordinary, asked upon

“What’s for lunch

much work did you get

hesitantly added a

on the computer,

every bit of Cicely’s

everything but work.

No surprise there.

silent, and Cicely, unaware of

“I’m hungry,” she stated, approaching him. Seth

closed the video.

seeing a screen full of text. Seth looked at her,

progress today, spent the whole morning reviewing

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

objects on the desk, and he

a reward, I’ll take

prospect of escaping the office for a meal was

*

stayed at the

summoning staff for reports

over several days, and even if Cicely wasn’t

she

everything settled, it was time for the company’s

a hectic affair.

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

day, at the same

hotel comprised two twenty-six-story towers, linked by sky bridges. The topfloor ballrooms were split between the Ellis Corporation

on the south, the other

was just below Diaz

with the Ellis Corporation.

in a silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress with the hem

wore a pair of silver high-heeled shoes, and although she

others, she still stood out as the

moment of her birth, Cicely seemed destined

Her clothes were simple in design, yet undeniably

The man by her side was distractingly handsome, a sight that made

onlookers to look away.

brought her to the Diaz International gala to

expected pleasantries, to clink glasses

before whisking her away to the

Corporation gala was orchestrated

the

the Ellis Corporation gala, they

of toasts and well-wishes, almost like a bride

guests, receiving

found their seats, Cicely mused

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

care of it,”

Cicely teased

are a lot

“And plenty

curious to take

“If your intentions weren’t so transparent, I

have considered it.”

want to

replied curtly, “Sure, one day I’ll bring

personal viewing.”

the C&P

keep a low profile there, and even more so in

whole. C&P, after its grand slam

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

up to Seth

unwilling to waste time on

ingratiate themselves with him.

magnet for journalists, both overt and

the C&P event was deliberate, with plenty of

long after, Charlie

Ray got drunk

over at Diaz International’s

demeanor darkened. As he

wrist,

put, I’ll be back soon,”

before following Charlie out.

him until he was out of sight, then rose

slouched

finished bottle of hard liquor. His face

a sneer, using

feet and approached

each syllable with a bitterness

with venom. “You’re impressive,

coldly, flashing

seen just how ruthless you can be.

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

family never provoked you;

you coveted what the we had, you seized my

attendees hadn’t anticipated such drama on the eve of their

the air,

Seth’s tactics, about how Ray’s

whim because Ray had once made an

had incensed him

against Ray .

it had

to confirm

shareholder in your family business, my

this place

surrendered their shares when Ray’s

even after waking from a hospital stay,

ten percent.

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

event. I can’t do anything at

last of what I have, and I

much to you. You destroyed my company, so

from you and ruined Diaz International, let you taste the bitterness

today?”

looked at Ray with icy detachment,

what makes you think you

the last shred

the drunken stupor in his eyes, which

if he might

vengeful fury.

bottle of whiskey onto the table next to

it shattered, sending sharp shards scattering

pierced through the festive din

skip a beat. Instinctively, her feet moved

her high heels a clumsy match for her

brandished the jagged remains of the bottle

color, and she let out a breathless shout.

pulling Seth’s arm and

circle to avoid the

Seth, her body shielding

blood fell onto Seth’s hand,

to fall out of

moment.

collective gasp reverberated throughout the banquet

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

on

arm stood out, and his face,

bloodied sword blade, seething with a murderous

glared at Ray.

Cicely’s arm

anger, she gripped his clothes tightly, her

managed to say, forcing herself to

tall.

as it

slapped him.

and not thinking straight. Have

will

you?!”

pain, and though her voice

clear tremble.

to stem from the physical reaction to her pain.

in her eyes made it

fear, anger,

heart as he surveyed

cut on her

dark. “Where else

bit her lip, and

restlessness

voice, “Talk

of self-control seemed to crumble

converged and broke

my ankle

it in her last

heels and, with

his arms.

tackled to the ground by

with a knee on his back,

Seth and was quick to react

him

had

Cicely had been

Ray, pinned

at Seth’s retreating figure

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

done!”

didn’t falter

*

injuries, Erik and Creighton rushed to

frenzy.

diagnosis: a sprained ankle and a two-centimeter laceration

shallow, but

had already been treated,

red and swollen from

Creighton, she greeted them with a tearful “Grandpa”

“Dad.”

phone call and returned

being. Seth gave a brief nod to the Erik and

their concern

his concern, which he channeled into anger

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

year, this

his fault. I was the one

and

glare. “Am I

Enter title…

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

pain stop, then

stop,” he said, cutting himself off

words were stuffed back down his throat.

a lifetime, could he not

somewhat disheveled

moment at the gala when she had unexpectedly run up

shield him

Totally unexpected.

shock and anger now took

could process these

intently to the doctor, then stepped

he saw Cicely with red eyes and pursed lips, looking as

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

passed under her knees, lifting

slight sense of peace to

watching.

Cicely and Seth back to

and returning to the Ellis residence was the best

she had never mentioned leaving

Seth stayed at the

Cicely company.

the restroom, washing up –

there to carry her, never leaving her side. Apart from the servants’

impeccable

actions were bittersweet

Cicely from the bathroom to the bed where

waiting.

process, despite the doctor’s caution, some

slight shift in pressure and Cicely would

man beside

tense

Ellis residence, any sitting with

turned to business

alone and bored in her room, insisted Seth

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

most of

about the mechanical manufacturing issues of

family.

which should have been settled

year to

if Diaz International was interested in taking the

response was the same as it had been initially with her. And

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

on to other matters.

Cicely wasn’t interested in company affairs,

able

residence just before the

been injured protecting

this time. But Patty’s

than on previous

Ellis family prepared a lavish dinner for her. She didn’t

brought up the

back to the Diaz family

mood didn’t match the generosity of

were legally married, spending

most appropriate and normal thing to

a moment, glanced at the young

somewhat absent-mindedly.

Creighton’s reaction, suddenly felt

at home, the vastness of the Ellis

to spend

for festive gatherings, would

*

Eve, Seth took Cicely

residence.

them to pick up Danielle from

and Creighton agreed that leaving Danielle

heartless. After negotiating with the

bring her

comment. However, the image of two old

home, staring at each other, feels sad just

up, serving as company

again, the thought of Danielle’s haughty, perpetually stern

might

been bustling since yesterday,

for the New Year’s

feast knowing Miss Danielle would

anyone at the hospital. And Cicely,

encountered Danielle, who should

Her face immediately

chatting happily with Danielle. When

paused for a

smiling.

wheelchair, also had a momentary freeze upon

her face, but she

said that made it sound like

are you doing here?” Seth

was

storm.

her lip, hands clasped

her all

holidays, could we?”

her chest, but she fought to

not to let her emotions flare out

was my dad who applied for her discharge. If anyone was going to take

Ellis family. You stay here

Danielle. “Patty is being

ashamed?”

embarrassed, turned even more

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

to contain her fury. “The guest I

here. Danielle got herself

wrong with inviting her over for dinner?

her every single day

sneer. “By that logic,

stage an accident and play the damsel in distress.

the Ellis family’s dinners even more

anger, and she whirled

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

desperate for a mother figure that you

her?”

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

it you who’s making him feel

“You…”

deep voice cut through the

smiling, settled

quietly awaited Seth’s

you here to celebrate, not to start a scene

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