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

and I will be driven to madness,

Enter title…

then let out a

really am disabled for life, you’ll never be

off.”d2

eyes flickered slightly as she looked at Danielle, who seemed to

gave a faint smile.

if you wish for a life

and neither will Seth. Even blood

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

four decades to live? How patient do you think

day out? Or rather, do

someone disabled?”

as she glared at Cicely.

to her most

a second that you’re off the hook just because

even dream of running away. You were so proud,

you up from your grave and lash your corpse to satisfy

Maybe if you get better soon, you might be able to

me for

teeth, Danielle eyed the neatly laid out food before her.

detached voice rang out

were you, I wouldn’t starve myself just

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

annoying.”

in place. To

Cicely would win.

appetite.

standing by. “Keep an eye on

eats or

“Understood.”

a deep

look at her again, turning towards the door to leave.

two steps, the door

darkening as the man who entered

The sight of Cicely brought a surge of intense hatred to his

returned from the

front of Cicely.

behind Issac, furrowed her

the door. She reached out and

Ray, feeling any

stiffened, his teeth clenched

mixed with rage.

Ray, don’t you think you’re

the one who nearly took advantage of me that night

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

castrated you myself.”

hit

stammered, “Seth never

night?”

he say negate the

raped me?”

faint smile, she

it. Let’s put our grievances aside for

get your facts straight. It was your drunken folly that

not anyone else’s doing. Ms.

not make her situation

the exchange,

expression flustered, “I’m here to

I know Danielle is the

that so?” Cicely nodded with a smile, “Then I

up, I’ll

left the hospital

can’t hold him accountable.

but I didn’t let him

in her hands until her knuckles

again brought back the chaos

fear, so vivid and terrifying that even the mere thought

shudder.

“Miss?”

seems Mr. Ray

rich playboy, surrounded by a constant stream

feelings for one

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

“Not perhaps. With his family

Danielle. It’s clear

was orchestrated by his family for her

frowned at

get her killed?

*

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

had no idea it

in the mood to give Ray any more

fork clumsily, she shoveled food into her mouth with

indifference.

of the tactics

she said, not looking up from her plate. “Is it really necessary to

him now, and your family is

least a chance for a

blown it for good.”

were clenched so tight his knuckles were white, and

his forehead. “He orchestrated the

told you not to be

imagine. My dad said the

had his sights set on bringing us

run by a guy who hasn’t graduated from

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

a fatal blow. He played innocent

wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve never

Cicely hadn’t shown up, who do you think

receiving end of my

face drained of color. She had pondered this

She didn’t want to confront

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

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

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

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

ask you

still didn’t look up, her voice restrained and flat. “Go

of that car for him, was it truly out of

your life to save him, or was it just a

and finally turned to look at Ray. “Does it make

with a motive, my only desire was to win him

“It’s

be so obstinate. If you knew the crash

you

silence, Danielle set her fork down and

are you

pressed his lips together.

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

quietly. “I didn’t expect you to brush

I had died, what would be the point

true or not, that’s the answer I needed

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

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

but since I can’t, I need to find

seen Ray this composed

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

no telling what

to.

*

stepped out of the elevator on

across the

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

brow furrowed imperceptibly when he saw

on her purse slackened for a

smile

gaze was heavy. “You hate hospitals. What are you doing

Came to check on her

brief silence, she glanced at him

in bullying a

Cicely arrived at

grasped what Seth was worried about. “Mr.

behalf to

it might

faltered for

scarf around her neck, presenting only her

smile at the corners of her eyes and lips was

are volatile, and your presence might exacerbate

even leading to harm.”

looked up at him with a light smile.

when I’m fully able and

expression darkened. “The sooner she recovers, the sooner

ties with her.”

tucked into the pockets of her down

braved the disgust

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

it, the clearer Seth

sarcasm and rebellion.

out to pull

just

stepped aside, avoiding his touch. “Whether I

to join me. And as it happens,

sharing a meal with you

such blunt rejection, Seth’s complexion

The question

he looked up to

room for an answer, as if the question itself

in

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

and pondered for

at

“Alright.”

through the gates of the Ellis family estate, Cicely

window at the sprawling

pines stood tall but

vitality.

brows, and the already somewhat

of the car

empty, with servants occasionally moving

be cautious.

at the sound of her arrival, a look of surprise

didn’t you give us a

glanced upstairs, “Where’s

not too long ago and was reading in the study. Not

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he

some

ascent up the stairs, turning to look

step, “And what else?”

were a couple of

as she turned and headed straight for

ordered the servants to bring out what Creighton had

plate of the brownish buckwheat wraps remained,

salad of carrots and celery,

of ham and cheese.

back of a nearby chair, she

for my

were too frightened to

helplessly, “Sir has

specifically asked for these dishes. Even

folks’ meals

says there’s no need to cook

knew Brody well enough not to doubt his words, but

family’s dining table was always a

she found Creighton slumped in a chair by

book resting on his chest, his head

sorrow hit Cicely, and her eyes

vast estate now had but one master.

a humble corner

in love, insisting

father alone

blamed herself deeply in

didn’t wake Creighton, gently covering him with a blanket before

out of the study.

from his nap and came downstairs

his face

rascal, why didn’t you tell me you

got secrets to hide

“You’re not fighting with Seth again,

many quarrels?” Cicely

the couch. “He’s busy with work, and

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

for dinner

“You’ll have to ask him. He

to me.”

talk to

to Creighton for the rest of

demanding

amused and exasperated.

Erik arrived, father and son squared off while she

chiming in with unsolicited

golden; don’t meddle

bustling,

Ellis family seemed to have returned to how

be.

dinner, Creighton

said he was too busy to make

glance, “Are you

us to be alright, will

Creighton relented.

still sent Seth a message. [I’m at the

coming home tonight.]

to create a dramatic runaway

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

anything amiss.

didn’t reply, and she didn’t wait up for

Seth showed up at the Ellis

frown and moved to assist Seth with his coat. “Why

your message imply for

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

know.”

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

an invitation for

had pulled

living room.

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

past few days,

“Not yet.”

the staff whip

dishes were all

for dinner, but

the inexplicable stares of her father and

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

two aren’t fighting, are

“Just came

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

back to

Enter title…

to

he glance up at her. “If you really

Ellis family estate isn’t as

her expression

staying here for the

flicker of emotion crossed Seth’s brow as he methodically chewed

down his

I not explain myself

well. Now that you’ve explained

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

wasting time over the same

with a napkin, “So you’re telling me

just on a

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

short on time. In fact, on my

but then I saw my dad and

me, but he could use some

not fighting

her lips curled

coupled with her

answer had been placed on the question she had left

noon.

believe it? If

“If you want to stay, stay.

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

own home, nothing’s

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

was surprised by his easy acquiescence, but the feeling

if he disagreed today, it wouldn’t

to understand why he mentioned

such an easy compromise.

and grandfather in the study. It

conversation would be about—nothing but

matters.

shopping app for little home decor items –

and notebooks with pens. Not that

but she liked

knocked, the servant opened it to find Charlie, shrouded

of frost, stepping inside. “Ms. Cicely,

“How heartless, sending you out in such

middle of the night no

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

You can sit

I just have an errand. Mr. Seth asked

be on

turned around, and noticed a

to Charlie. Brody, seeing this, quickly

suitcase upstairs.

linger, bidding farewell

of milk. After finishing her milk,

upstairs.

talk about for

servant had

found some clothes and went to the bathroom where

a while since she’d indulged in a

the tub and

a view of the garden and

rotating ground lights. It seemed they had been turned

especially for her return.

of boredom, she had asked her

at them had become a habit

the edge of the bathtub, staring at

the tub, twisted a hot

over her eyes.

into the water,

her eyes, she didn’t move again. She

felt a sudden chill.

felt the coolness,

from her eyes, her hand was

up to

side of the tub.

first to drown in a

it was by the man who had appeared

of the room had dissipated when he entered,

feel cold.

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

he stood next to her and began

“What are

a beat, dropping his clothes

one do

grabbed the towel beside the

she was

her chest and glared up at him.

to do?”

woman in his arms, her face flushed

more radiant than usual. He smirked, planting a soft peck

voice that was low and

deflated embarrassingly, “You

without drowning.”

her quiet,

preferred her

demeanor.

he began to run his fingers through her wet

hair

“No.”

warm spray of the shower

her consent before turning on the shower.

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

that this man

before it even

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

away by

felt awkward, her arms crossing in front of her, trying to cover up

modesty she could.

hair with

his chest to

her head lowered and eyes closed,

all, there were more than a

for this

her hair, he nudged her toward

he took a quick shower

cool expression,

planning

any reason

apartment, it’s quite a trek from here to

here. I can’t

will.”

of anger

he drew closer to her. “It’s okay.

earlier is nothing compared to spending a whole night alone.

better.”

can’t sleep

should I?” Seth’s gaze drifted leisurely over

contours of her body.

reached out to pull

the shower cascading

prevent water from

succinct and cryptic

something insistent pressing against her and

Seth had already set the showerhead

hers. “We should get out and dry

go. I

we’re not going

lips closed over hers abruptly. His

apart, and he moved with a

she’d scream out. She hit his

“This is the Ellis

told you it wasn’t convenient, but you seemed not

to keep it

wrapped around his waist, and as the

blurred until she was on the brink of

and slipping her into

She turned away from him, her

to the other side of the bed, facing

long arm scooped her into his

resist, knowing he’d only persist if she tried

was too exhausted

*

The next day.

up, Seth was already gone. The patchy marks on

ones

so he seemed.

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

all too pleased.

slipping into her loose loungewear,

listless, she found Creighton and her

their morning exercise and were

shook his head with a mix of

really should fix that habit of skipping

took the milk offered by the servant, sipped half

is the best part of

Skipping breakfast is bad for your

either. Breakfast is the most important meal. Why are

you leave

irritation left Cicely speechless for

office. Why would I leave

duh! Perfect timing with your holiday.

ending up clueless. What?

showing clear reluctance. “No, he

he didn’t

at passing the

he really

she genuinely didn’t know, Creighton dropped the subject.

to the hospital with your grandfather to see Danielle. You want

come?”

curled her legs onto the couch, resting her elbow on

blend of elegance

you’ll have lunch by yourself

were already leaving her to

had come

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

was incredibly inappropriate and heartless. After

visit the hospital

say the Ellis

would have

for dinner. His timing

he headed upstairs first, while

her bedroom,

desk.

to the

quick shower, she emerged to find

to

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

on the bed, walked over, brushed her

her a gentle peck on the

for

you be? It’s been days on end.

you up to?”

hint of teasing, “What makes

rest tonight?”

mumbled, “Then what

there are plenty of things we have yet to talk

gently, “Then hurry up and

by her, Seth’s body pressed

penetrating with

herself gasping for air. She lifted her hands and started

a soft whimper. It was only then that

on her, just barely.

trying to kiss me to death?” she managed

caught Seth off guard with their unintentional cuteness, and

I wouldn’t

he said

“Misunderstood?” Cicely’s drowsy eyes suddenly sharpened as

hers.

penalty for self-justification, then what

Shouldn’t I consider how to

same amused expression, yet a chill seemed to seep

smile. “Go ahead. Punish me

slightly tilted her head, calmly and seriously

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

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

jawline, “So, ask yourself, do you

heart to give

and ran her hand across

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

emotion in her eyes, Seth felt a subtle stir

caressing her smooth chin, “You like

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

ever heard, love

start, the more they

warm and smiling

soft with flirtation, “Don’t worry, though.

I doubt it will. I wouldn’t

bee sting to the nerve, his

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

buttons that Cicely had

unfastened the rest.

early, so be good and wait for

paused, “If

you up my way.”

had no desire to find out what his method of

Cicely

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

game.

into bed and snatched the phone

there something you need to

me at the office tomorrow

he swiped and tapped on

know anything about business, what

do there?”

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

in the

I have

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

picking on you

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

it’s your life now or in the future, your only sure bet is the

Ellis family forever. If one day, shareholders

start eating

even know where to cry. Don’t

you

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

family is mine, isn’t it yours

only when truly in your

you insecure? You

want to leave me one

her, his gazes were

sounds like you’re quite convinced

who leaves a trail

But beyond these two

didn’t improve,

in their depths replaced by a

In fact, instead of you

on why I

downloaded some files to your

sleep, and ask me about anything you

understand tomorrow.”

the document app

a blur of text. “What

at her, then got out of bed, lifting the covers. “I’m

to reflect. Naturally, I can’t

mood.”

him get up, grab a coat, and walk out.

it wasn’t about

a tantrum.

＊

his study for two

looking

in the bedroom, the lights had dimmed, leaving

woman sleeping with the phone in

reignited.

Heartless woman.

from her hand and glanced at

she hadn’t closed.

opened for her before

sleeping face

rush to

aside, he watched the woman sleep

he pulled her into

to the man’s arms and scent,

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

wanted to wake her

fell silent again, and

petty.

＊

next morning, he woke Cicely with a kiss that

strong coffee. Even for school, Cicely rarely awoke

grumpiness, she was even

robbed of breath.

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

mind?!”

mischievous grin as he swung his legs out of bed,

shine, off

not going.” Cicely yanked the comforter over

show your face.” Seth’s voice carried a serious

Cicely didn’t budge.

really gonna make me do this the

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

could she muster

pillow at

and the pillow barely registered upon

so over this, I’m not going to

and

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

If you don’t want me to wake you up for the

back to sleep.”

gritted her teeth in frustration. As Seth

a sly

aside and stomped off to the bathroom,

was busy squeezing toothpaste onto his brush. He

reflection in the mirror.

subtle raise of his eyebrows, he shifted aside

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

their reflection. Seth nonchalantly placed

aside.

brushing. It was not like she needed

toothpaste. The frothy white bubbles

slight smile

headed to the Ellis Corporation

document from last night did you read?” Seth

to know anything.

am I supposed

smiled

understood why he hadn’t

prepared a new desk and

immediate deployment.

documents are on the computer;

her face away,

excuse, “There are printed copies

like no matter what excuse she

Reluctantly, she moved to the

pile of folders.

anything you don’t understand, and

will you be

to a C&P

leaving me here

in

reading; I’ll be back

to retort but held back. “Just

glanced at her

eyes had been darting around, a clear

she possibly stir

left, Cicely did take the documents seriously

plenty of marks with her pen, but within half an

and her

the office, returning after another half-hour to

the drawers, fiddled with the

and doodled on a black leather notebook she

her phone and then, noticing the

desk and

Cicely sat there, the picture of

student.

did you get

new to me, so

files in a whole morning and

stung.

Diaz, the fact that I’m

his desk, noticing the black notebook she had

open, he found her doodles—a passable cartoon

a confident, flamboyant

‘artwork’ and flushed slightly, but quickly

nonchalance.

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

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

documents away.

declared as if

his nose and sank

Come over here.”

prepared? No complaints

the files and

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

said, leaning back with a

his grip tightened around her waist, his voice

one taking

“What do you mean?”

“Back in the day, you’d concoct all kinds

Now,

impatience and this half-hearted attitude. If

is?”

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

it’s

reeked of impunity, but Seth had

like harboring intentions towards

that would mean

Seth was momentarily speechless.

smiled,

me, it’s to your

leaned back in his chair, turning to face

expression and voice

Cicely watched him—

was

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

have no intention of joining

“Aren’t you eating?”

was drowned out by the

“Not hungry.” His mood

entire office was suffused with the unmistakable vibe of ‘he’s upset,

a big deal’.

expect me to eat all this by myself?” she asked,

with food, while

her way.

leave it. Nobody said you had to finish

and huffed, “Then I guess

tonight.”

up at her with

onto the couch and picked up the elegantly

we have to sleep together every night. If you

wait until

“How long are you planning to keep

attitude with me?”

“Isn’t it you

you sure you want to

silverware tightened before relaxing. “Just

to

with me, and

Seth fell silent.

*

had been at the Ellis

stayed

under Seth’s watchful

with him summoning various department heads for updates

progress reviews, the office atmosphere

the well-known heiress of the Ellis family,

her father, she couldn’t afford to be seen as slacking

the workday approached, Cicely found most of

leaders’ trembling, overly respectful

hadn’t made much

hadn’t commented on it.

Mom’s

in a while.”

brow twitched, “I should probably

need, I’ve already

an acknowledgment and moved to the door

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

but when it came down to it, Cicely

deal with things as they come. If Patty was in

to steer clear.

Patty wasn’t her biggest

and naturally, Cicely wasn’t about to

She cozied up

around Seth’s.

them

Enter title…

take a call and returned after a few

took a sip of warm water from his

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

fascinating about my face?”d2

always been told if

could ask him. But with him always buzzing around, she

he hadn’t even

a strand of her hair, her palm warming against

said nonchalantly, “I overheard General Manager

was talking about this new mechanical equipment

to knock the socks off the old models. We could

tech. The Ellis family has the know-how

a point. Instead of bidding and choosing another manufacturer, why

the deal over to Diaz International? Given the ties

and the Ellis family,

expression was cold. “The big fish like the Harper family,

eyeing the Ellis project. Diaz International doesn’t have the

deal with the Ellis

the Ellis family picks Diaz International, the rest can just

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

for it, or do you just

family, or the Watsons? Or is it just that you flat-out don’t

with the Ellis family?”

head of the Ellis Corporation, I can say that the

fitting partners than Diaz International. And

family, are

Corporation to make things easier for

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

bottom line is what counts. Why sweat the

for you, I’ll bang the

mouth twitched into a half-smile.

scared to take the big deals, too

of running Diaz International? Might

you

that’s actually

about it, the

narrowed his eyes but

her chin

actually go through with that?

you in the

International to me personally, and I’ll cut you in on

How about

looked at her coolly. “What’s all this

in Diaz International?”

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

to you besides your mother, it’s probably Diaz

by your father. You know, I’ve been thinking that I

an edge over you.

might just be it.”

meaningful and unfathomable as

last bit of Diaz International. So what

sofa, with a carefree smile on her face.

time to let

tightened, clearly

reaction, Cicely just smiled thinly. “Then isn’t my suggestion

Ellis family banner

did Diaz International ever do to tick you off?” The voice

Cicely, a familiar tone that belonged to none

her mug, then switched on

her face

wariness.

Then I figured it wasn’t such

ain’t too shabby, right? Especially since

No need to

the

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

International.”

eyebrow, her eyes

Patty wasn’t bringing it up,

stood up, his expression

go.”

Cicely, probably mindful of

as if forcefully suppressing a multitude

evening, they had dinner at the Diaz residence, but

dining with Patty might be the

was

the Ellis residence, Seth

you

“Same as today.”

alone in

there, I’ll disturb your

against the car window, twirling a strand of hair

her slender finger.

few seconds before slowly speaking,

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

you?”

shook her head, “No need,

Seth fell silent.

the butler welcomed them

parcels for you today; they’ve been temporarily stored in the warehouse.

like to open them now, I can bring them out for

changed her shoes and said, “Well, bring

packages. Cicely sat cross-legged in the

waterproof mat and started to slice open

knife.

items – mugs, thermos cups,

not only unpacked them but also studied

manuals was many times more focused and serious

when she read documents.

came down to find Cicely amidst

up; we’re up early

handed him a white travel

had a notable heft, and

her name beneath. Beside her was a

rest of the items were pairs, hers in dark tones, his

light.

made you think of buying all

time did I realize there are no traces of you

and it

while still engrossed in the small items, her tone

was the most natural thing in the world. Seth

urged her to get

the white tumbler in the car,

contentedly.

the Ellis estate and setting

more. Cicely’s focus was still scattered, but

realized they were much the same as what

department heads yesterday.

she set the paperwork aside, paced the office, and

knock on the door.

parcels. “Ms. Cicely, these parcels, they’re

addressed to you.”

bored till now, perked up at the sight, “Put them on

Seth’s chair, she resumed

an office transformed. His desk now

new pen holder, several

couple of notebooks.

his, albeit with a

with a cushion on

of flowers had even appeared

the wisdom of leaving her alone

as though she’d done nothing out of

for

“How much work

hesitantly added

few keys on the computer,

of Cicely’s boredom—and her

everything but work.

No surprise there.

was silent, and Cicely, unaware of its

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

closed the video.

came closer, seeing a screen full of text. Seth looked at her, “Made

progress today, spent the whole

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

on the desk,

take you out for

prospect of escaping the office for a meal

*

afternoon, Seth stayed at the Ellis

for

and even if Cicely wasn’t

about company affairs, she couldn’t

it was time

a hectic affair.

Corporation, Diaz International, and C&P were

same day, at the same

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

the south, the

Diaz International’s—a

with the Ellis Corporation.

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

pair of silver

she still stood out as the most eyecatching in

her birth, Cicely seemed destined to make other

in

side was distractingly handsome, a sight

onlookers to look away. Cicely had

had brought her to the Diaz International

expected pleasantries, to clink

her away to the Ellis

orchestrated by Seth’s

father present, the spotlight

the Ellis Corporation gala,

well-wishes, almost

guests, receiving blessings and

Cicely mused aloud, “Isn’t

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

others are taking care of

hand, Cicely teased with a mischievous

are a lot of

coolly, “And

to

Seth retorted, “If your

have considered it.”

just want to

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

personal viewing.”

the C&P gala.

a low profile there, and even more so

a whole. C&P, after its grand slam start and the

its grip, was the envy of

cozy up to Seth was

Seth was not a patient man, unwilling to waste time on those trying

ingratiate themselves with him.

a magnet for journalists,

event was

However, not long after, Charlie

Diaz, Ray got drunk at the C&P gala

over at Diaz International’s

brow furrowed, and his demeanor darkened.

wrist,

be back soon,” he said, squeezing her

before following Charlie out.

of sight, then rose and trailed after

Ray was slouched

bottle of hard liquor. His face

a sneer, using

feet

he slurred, emphasizing each syllable with a

with venom. “You’re impressive, truly

flashing

hardball. I’ve seen just how ruthless you

who writes history, that I

provoked you; we were just

you coveted what the we

hadn’t anticipated such drama on the

words hung in the air, the implications

tactics, about how Ray’s

because Ray had once made an indecent pass

had incensed him enough to

against Ray .

it had been a

seemed to

a shareholder in your family business, my suggestion is

place

surrendered their shares when Ray’s family had dispersed, except

from a hospital stay, clung stubbornly to

ten percent.

was bitter, “Rest assured, I

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

last of what I have, and I can’t tarnish it. Just as Diaz

to you. You destroyed my company, so tell me,

International, let

today?”

icy detachment, “If you couldn’t

think

to strip away the

stupor in his eyes, which

and he looked as if he might lunge at

vengeful fury.

the table next to Seth with

sharp shards scattering across the

glass pierced through the festive din

to skip a beat. Instinctively, her

strides towards Seth, her high heels a clumsy match

the jagged remains of the bottle at Seth, Cicely’s face

she let out a

she dashed forward, pulling Seth’s arm

a circle to avoid

Seth, her body

bright red blood fell onto Seth’s hand,

arms seemed about to

moment.

collective gasp reverberated throughout the banquet

expected Cicely to intervene, felt a surge of rage

blood on his

stood out, and his face, usually cool

blade, seething with a murderous

glared at Ray.

Cicely’s

she gripped his

managed

tall.

as it landed on her pale,

a resounding slap, Cicely slapped him. Stunned,

and not thinking straight. Have you had too

will do

you?!”

pain, and though her voice carried anger, it

clear tremble.

the physical reaction

it

anger, or

gripped his heart as he

resting on a clear cut on her right arm. He grasped her arm,

“Where else are you

and tears

and restlessness swirled

low voice,

ounce of self-control seemed to

converged and broke

down her face. “My… my ankle

in her last

and, with a grimace, bent down to scoop

his arms.

Ray had been tackled to the ground by Charlie, who had pinned

knee on

beside Seth and was quick to react when

him a

had

Cicely had been cut

pinned down by Charlie and unable

only shout at Seth’s retreating

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

done!”

didn’t falter

*

hearing of Cicely’s injuries, Erik and Creighton rushed

frenzy.

ankle and

too shallow, but not

she had already been treated, her wounds

red and

and Creighton, she greeted them with a tearful

“Dad.”

just ended a phone call and returned to the room. Charlie

the time being. Seth gave a brief nod to the Erik and Creighton. Their minds

concern for

which he channeled

a day of hardship in her life, and just

new year,

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

and followed

a glare. “Am I not allowed to speak

Enter title…

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

the pain stop,

stop,” he said, cutting himself

all his words were stuffed back down his throat.

lifetime, could he

hair somewhat disheveled but

at the gala when she

him with

Totally unexpected.

took on a

these swirling emotions, the

listened intently to the doctor, then

Cicely with red eyes and pursed lips,

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

passed under her knees,

silent understanding brought a slight sense

watching.

drove Cicely and Seth back to the

needed care, and returning to the Ellis residence

she had never mentioned leaving

holiday after the gala, Seth stayed at the Ellis residence to

Cicely company.

the restroom, washing up – any time Cicely needed to move,

carry her, never leaving her side. Apart

impeccable in

silent, complaint-free actions were bittersweet

Cicely from the bathroom to the bed where the doctor

waiting.

the bandaging process, despite the doctor’s

shift in pressure and Cicely would

a heavy silence from the man beside her,

as tense as

the Ellis residence, any sitting with

inevitably turned

and bored in her room, insisted Seth take her

to the living room

to most

the mechanical manufacturing issues of the

family.

the deal which should have been settled before

year to after

if Diaz International was interested in

response was the same as it had been

Creighton didn’t dwell on this

on to other matters.

in company affairs, she found comfort in

able to look up and

residence just before the new year. After all, as

daughter-in-law who had been

on airs at this time. But Patty’s

on

Ellis family prepared a lavish dinner for her. She

brought up the topic of the

back to the

Patty’s mood didn’t match

were legally married, spending New Year’s

was the most appropriate and

glanced at

somewhat absent-mindedly.

noticing Creighton’s reaction, suddenly felt a deep pang of sadness.

not at home, the

to spend

festive gatherings, would leave him

*

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

residence.

left with them to pick

agreed that leaving Danielle alone in

was too heartless. After negotiating with the doctor,

bring her

image of two old people spending

each other, feels sad just thinking about it.

of Danielle might liven things up, serving as company for

of Danielle’s haughty, perpetually stern

might be better off

been bustling since yesterday, and though

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

a sumptuous feast knowing

at the hospital. And Cicely, arriving at

residence, encountered Danielle, who should

Her face

was chatting happily with Danielle. When she saw

the room, her expression paused for a moment,

smiling.

wheelchair, also had a momentary freeze upon

A shadow crossed her face, but

The way she said that made it sound like

doing here?” Seth asked, ignoring

onto the couch. His voice was as

storm.

lip, hands clasped tightly, not saying a

here. We couldn’t leave her all

holidays, could we?”

in her

best not to let her emotions

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

it should’ve been the Ellis family. You

“Patty is being polite, but don’t you

ashamed?”

even more mortified after that

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

able to contain her fury. “The

herself injured saving Seth’s life. We owe

debt we can never repay. What’s wrong

her every

sneer. “By that logic, any

an accident and play the damsel in

the Ellis family’s dinners

pale with anger, and she whirled to

is the

so desperate for a mother figure that

her?”

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

who’s making him

“You…”

voice

gaze, which had been light and smiling, settled

as she quietly awaited Seth’s

here to celebrate, not to start a scene

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