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.

you know. Getting angry is bad for your health.

bedridden for life, Seth and I will be driven

Enter title…

at her coldly and then let out a mocking

am disabled for life, you’ll

off.”d2

flickered slightly as she looked at Danielle, who seemed to

faint smile. “How shameless are you to

wish for a life of disability, the

Even blood relatives fed up

think you are

three or four decades to live? How patient do you

day out? Or rather, do you

someone disabled?”

as she glared at Cicely. Each

her most vulnerable

that you’re off the hook

running away. You were so proud, weren’t

I will dig you up from your grave

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

don’t blame me

eyed the neatly laid out food before

Cicely’s icy, detached

starve myself just to spite someone.

you’re willing to eat, that’s if

annoying.”

as her arm began to lift, it froze in place. To eat or not to eat, either

Cicely would win.

appetite. Please, leave

at the nurse standing by.

eats

“Understood.”

a deep

her again, turning towards

two steps, the door swung open

her expression darkening as the man

was Ray. The sight of Cicely brought a surge of intense hatred

from the restroom, rushed in, positioning himself

front of Cicely.

her brows as she recalled

door. She reached

feeling any

face stiffened, his teeth clenched as he

mixed with rage.

“Mr. Ray, don’t you think you’re misdirecting your

one who nearly took advantage of me

come to settle that score yet, and here you are looking as if

castrated you myself.”

hit

Ray stammered, “Seth never told you

night?”

“Does what he say negate the fact that

raped me?”

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

regret it. Let’s put our grievances aside for

facts straight. It was your drunken

doing.

not make

listening to the exchange, could hardly believe

expression flustered, “I’m here to visit,

Of course, I know Danielle is the biggest

a smile, “Then I must have

up, I’ll

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

so we can’t hold him accountable.

but I didn’t let

the bag in her

back the chaos of that night,

so vivid and terrifying that even the

shudder.

“Miss?”

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

rich playboy, surrounded by a

true feelings

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

his family on the brink, he’s willing

clear

orchestrated by his family

at

liked Danielle so much he’d nearly get her killed? That seemed a

*

room, Ray stood by Danielle’s

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

Ray

her fork clumsily, she shoveled food into

indifference.

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

said, not looking up from her

Nothing’s happening to him now, and your

was at least a chance for a comeback, but

blown it for good.”

so tight his knuckles were

“He orchestrated the downfall of my family from

you not to be fooled by his

can imagine. My dad said the moment

had his sights set on bringing

by a

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

suddenly delivered a fatal blow. He played innocent but was

wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve never hidden

Cicely hadn’t shown up, who do

at the receiving end

had pondered this

She didn’t

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

“I know you wouldn’t believe

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

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

to ask you

up, her

car for him, was it truly out of a

to save him, or was it

turned to look at Ray. “Does

my only

smile. “It’s different. The accident was

expect my father to be so obstinate.

you still

Danielle set her fork down and looked up

answer are

pressed his lips together. “You

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

didn’t expect

I had died, what would be the point

or not, that’s the

to play the villain in front of me to

you, it’s like denying everything I’ve ever

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

Ray this composed yet so

blanket trembled slightly. She was afraid of Ray

to lose, there was no telling what kind of

to.

*

of the elevator

standing across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

imperceptibly

on her purse slackened for a moment then tightened.

familiar, faint smile on

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

episode. Came to check on her

silence, she glanced at

in bullying a cripple, so

after Cicely arrived at

what Seth was worried about.

to check on Miss Danielle, considering

She thought it might give you a

faltered for a

neck,

of her eyes and

are volatile, and your presence might exacerbate them,

even leading to harm.”

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

could hurt me when I’m fully able

darkened. “The sooner she

ties with her.”

tucked into

I braved the

overt anger, just

the clearer

sarcasm and rebellion.

had lunch?” Seth reached out

he’d learned just a

aside, avoiding his touch. “Whether I have

time to join me. And as it happens, I don’t

meal with

blunt rejection, Seth’s complexion

you ever trusted me?” The question floated into

brief pause, he looked

room for an answer, as if the question itself

conclusion in

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

settled into the car and pondered for a

at

“Alright.”

rolled through the gates of

at the sprawling manor, feeling

The dark green pines stood tall but failed to bring any

vitality.

furrowed her brows, and

of the car and

with servants occasionally moving about

to be cautious. “Miss,

over at the sound of her arrival, a look of surprise

us

upstairs,

and

he’s fallen asleep.”

he have

some buckwheat

turning to look at Brody from the

step, “And what else?”

hesitated, “There were a couple

as she turned and headed straight for the kitchen.

to bring out what Creighton

brownish buckwheat wraps

of carrots and celery,

of ham and cheese.

the back of a nearby chair, she lifted her gaze

you prepared for my father’s

were too frightened to reply, their

“Sir has been preferring lighter meals these

for these dishes. Even if

folks’ meals are quite simple.

says there’s no need

Brody well enough not to doubt his

table was always a feast of

reaching the study, she found Creighton

his chest, his head tilted, seemingly asleep. A

Cicely, and

master.

corner for

married early, head over heels in

alone

blamed herself deeply in her

covering him with a

out of the study.

nap and came downstairs

something with the servants, his face

you

to hide before

her. “You’re not

so many quarrels?”

“He’s busy with work, and

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

over for

to ask him. He listens to you more than

to me.”

talk to

for the

demanding take-backs that

amused and exasperated.

and son squared off while she placed bets

chiming in with unsolicited

is golden;

was lively and bustling, and even the servants were

entire Ellis family seemed to have returned to how

be.

Creighton inquired

said he was too busy to make

“Are you two

hope for us to be alright,

Creighton relented.

dinner, Cicely still sent Seth a message.

coming home tonight.]

a dramatic runaway scenario with

After all, she couldn’t let

anything amiss.

and she didn’t wait up

Seth showed up at the Ellis estate’s

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

imply

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

know.”

no reason for a married couple to

as an invitation for us to

she could respond, he had pulled her

into the living room. “Good

couple’s closeness, smiled,

hard these past few days, have you eaten

“Not yet.”

have the staff whip up

all tailored to

planned on joining him for dinner, but as she stepped out,

with the inexplicable stares of her father and Seth in

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

chimed in, “You two aren’t fighting,

“Just came

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

to the

Enter title…

to dine with him,

glance up at her. “If you really wanted

the Ellis family estate isn’t as cozy as

her water bottle, her expression

here for the

Seth’s brow as he

set down his

I not explain myself

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

water bottle for a sip, “I said I’m

wasting time over the same person or

his mouth with a napkin, “So

back here just on a

reason, I have some. I’m on

but you’re short on time. In fact, on my way back today,

staying, but then I saw my dad and

could use some company. Are

prove I’m not

lips curled in an almost imperceptible

part, coupled with

on the question she had

noon.

believe it? If

“If you want

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

own home,

a sip from

easy

even if he disagreed

understand why he

such an easy compromise.

father and grandfather in the study.

to her what their conversation

matters.

shopping app for

castle LEGO sets, and notebooks with pens. Not that she

but she liked doodling

servant opened

frost, stepping inside.

glanced at him, “How heartless, sending you out

of the

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

You can sit and

I just have an errand. Mr. Seth asked me to bring

on

finally looked up, turned around, and noticed a

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

suitcase upstairs.

bidding

up a glass of milk. After finishing

upstairs.

men possibly have to talk about for so long without any sign

The servant had refilled their water several

and went to the

drawn. It had been a while since she’d indulged in

the water temperature, she slid into the tub and let out

bathroom window was a view of

by rotating ground lights. It seemed they had been

especially for her return.

she had asked her father

Over the years, glimpsing at them had become a habit

bathtub, staring at that place

of the tub, twisted a

over her eyes.

oil dripped into the water, soothing her fatigue. With

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

felt a sudden chill.

coolness,

the towel from her eyes, her hand was

to see the

side of the tub.

to be the first to drown in a

but it was by the

warmth of the room had dissipated when he entered, making

feel cold.

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

to her and began to undress in

frowned, “What are

beat, dropping his clothes into

do in a bathroom?

paused, grabbed the towel beside the tub to cover herself, and

could leave, she was scooped

glared up at him.

to do?”

looked down at the woman in his arms, her face flushed from either

more radiant than usual. He smirked,

with a voice that was low and enticing. “Share

embarrassingly, “You

without drowning.”

her quiet, gentle demeanor,

prickly aura, he preferred her current bold, even if

demeanor.

run

your hair

“No.”

spray of the shower

consent before turning on the shower. A

Cicely, but Seth’s hand covered

principles, but that this man

before it

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

away

arms crossing in front of her, trying

modesty she could.

her hair

close into his chest to rinse it clean with

head lowered and eyes closed, Cicely considered that

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

fallen for

hair, he nudged her toward the

a quick

expression,

planning

any reason I

apartment, it’s quite a trek from

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

will.”

flicker of anger tinged Cicely’s

a smile as he drew closer to her. “It’s okay. Waking up

hour earlier is nothing compared to spending a

better.”

sleep by

gaze drifted leisurely over her

contours of her body.

darkened imperceptibly, and he reached out to pull her into

warm water from the

her eyes closed to prevent water from flowing into

on his succinct and cryptic response, which left her

she suddenly felt something insistent pressing against her and came

realization, Seth had already set the showerhead aside, his

against hers. “We should get out

voice tightened, “Let go. I can dry it

not going out

lips closed over hers abruptly. His leg

and he moved with a

she’d scream out. She

“This is the Ellis

you it wasn’t convenient, but you seemed not

keep it

legs was wrapped around his waist,

her vision blurred until she was on the brink of

and slipping her

her soft hair spreading

side of the bed, facing her. As she sensed his

his long

to resist, knowing he’d only persist if

exhausted to continue

*

The next day.

was already gone. The patchy marks on her

with new ones

and protective—or so he seemed.

and he’d tend to it. Yet now, with her

all too pleased.

into her

and listless, she found Creighton and her

from their morning exercise and were already two chess

Seeing Cicely, Creighton shook his head with

“You really should fix that habit

the servant, sipped half

is the best

bad for your health,

most important meal. Why are

didn’t you

irritation left Cicely speechless for a

the office. Why would I

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

the company instead of ending up clueless. What?

clear

he didn’t mention

quite good at passing the

he really

genuinely didn’t know, Creighton dropped the subject.

hospital with your grandfather to see

come?”

her legs onto the couch,

a blend of elegance and

you’ll have lunch by yourself at

returned, and they were already

Danielle’s name had come up several times at

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

inappropriate and heartless. After a

they were set to visit the hospital

silently. Anyone who dared say the Ellis family was harsh

have a problem with

returned in time for dinner. His timing

eating, he headed upstairs first, while Cicely sat with

up to her bedroom,

desk.

the bathroom, and upon entering, she locked

behind her. After a quick shower, she emerged to find Seth still

into bed to play with her

it seemed like Seth had finished his work. He stood

on the bed, walked over, brushed

on the lips. “I’m going to shower. Don’t

for me,

lazily, “How horny can you be?

you up to?”

a hint of teasing, “What

rest tonight?”

what am I

of things

Cicely pushed him gently, “Then hurry up and

pushed away by her,

with unrestrained

herself gasping for air. She lifted

shoulders, letting out a soft whimper. It was only then that Seth eased

on her, just barely.

me to

Seth off guard with their unintentional cuteness, and a

to death? I wouldn’t dream of

just now, Mrs. Diaz,” he said with

Cicely’s drowsy eyes suddenly sharpened

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

misunderstanding warrants a penalty for

misunderstand me? Shouldn’t I

amused expression, yet a chill

me any way

her head, calmly and seriously meeting his gaze. “You

because I’m so

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

curved jawline, “So, ask yourself, do

the heart to give me

ran her hand across

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

felt a subtle stir

chin, “You like

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

it, “But have you ever heard, love and

start,

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

brows soft with flirtation, “Don’t worry,

which I doubt it will.

his dark

smile. He let

shirt was already missing two buttons that Cicely had undone; he

unfastened the rest.

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

turned to leave and then paused, “If

you up my way.”

no desire to find out what his

Seth emerged from the shower, Cicely was propped up in

a video game. She glanced at

game.

into bed and snatched the phone from her hands. Cicely

strongly, “Is there something you need

at the office

swiped and tapped on her

don’t know anything about business, what am I

do there?”

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

thing in the

I have

Do you think your dad asking you

picking on you for no

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

life now or in the future,

manage the Ellis family

of a weak moment and start eating away at you,

won’t even know where to cry. Don’t be

around you

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

it yours too? What’s there to argue

in your

makes you insecure? You think one day

leave you? Or maybe you want to leave me one day

to her, his

“It sounds like you’re

leaves a trail of broken

beyond these two reasons, is there anything

didn’t improve,

shifted, the shadow in their depths replaced by a shallow

In fact, instead of you

on why I

handed her phone back, “I’ve downloaded some files

much as you can before sleep, and ask me about anything

understand tomorrow.”

the phone, the document app he had just downloaded for

with a blur of text. “What will

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

Naturally, I

mood.”

up, grab a coat, and walk

all too well; it wasn’t about reflection.

a tantrum.

＊

his study for two

his face looking

had dimmed, leaving only

the phone in her

reignited.

Heartless woman.

taking the phone from her hand and glanced at the

she hadn’t closed.

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

face

Creighton was in a rush to find her a reliable

it aside, he watched

face cold as he pulled her into

man’s arms and

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

wake her up, maybe keep her

silent

petty.

＊

morning, he woke

strong coffee. Even for

morning grumpiness, she

robbed of breath.

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

mind?!”

grin as he swung his legs out of bed, “Time

shine, off

I am not going.” Cicely yanked the comforter over

Seth’s

Cicely didn’t budge.

make me do

Cicely flung the comforter off with a

but what strength could she muster just out of bed,

a pillow at

close by, and the pillow barely

so over this, I’m not going to the

pillow, and

ready. If I don’t see you up by the time I’m out, I’ll just carry you

to wake you up for the second

back to sleep.”

Seth turned away, the corners

a

threw the covers aside and stomped off

toothpaste onto his brush. He watched her

reflection in the mirror.

subtle raise of his eyebrows,

approached, took her brush, and Seth, as

reflection. Seth

aside.

brushing. It

toothpaste. The frothy

smile of

headed to the Ellis

of the document from last night did you

to know anything.

am I supposed to do at the

smiled and didn’t

the office, Cicely understood why

desk and chair in the

immediate deployment.

are on the computer; you can

turned her face

this excuse, “There are printed

no matter what excuse she came

Reluctantly, she

pile of folders.

and we can go over

you

to a

leaving

wolves in the

reading; I’ll

to retort but held back.

glanced at her before leaving

had been darting around, a clear sign she was up to

stir up in the

left, Cicely did take the documents

plenty of marks with her pen, but within half an hour,

her phone was

the office, returning after another half-hour

drawers, fiddled with the decorations,

doodled on a black leather

with her phone and then, noticing the time,

and

before noon. Cicely sat there, the

student.

much did you get

it’s new to me, so I’m on the third

in a whole morning and you’re proud of

stung.

fact that

his desk, noticing the black notebook she had taken

her doodles—a passable

a confident, flamboyant

her ‘artwork’ and flushed slightly, but quickly adopted

nonchalance.

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

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

tidied the documents away. Seth waited for an

as if

the bridge of his nose and sank into his chair. “Lunch is on its

Come over here.”

No complaints

files and approached him. Before

his long arm pulled her into an

said, leaning back with a

around her waist,

taking liberties here,

“What do you mean?”

chuckled softly, “Back in the day, you’d

you. Sweet and respectful. Now, you

impatience and this half-hearted attitude. If that’s not taking

is?”

an eyebrow, “Respectful? That’s

you, and it’s intentional, Mr.

of impunity, but

feel like harboring intentions towards me

current relationship, that would mean cheating, Mr.

Seth was momentarily speechless.

feeling victorious, smiled,

it’s

and leaned back in his chair, turning

expression

Cicely watched him—

man was annoyed

by Charlie from a local diner, indeed Cicely’s

have no intention

“Aren’t you eating?”

was drowned out by the rhythmic clacking of the

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

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

a big deal’.

to eat all this by myself?” she asked, her brow furrowed as

a table laden with food,

her way.

it. Nobody said

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

tonight.”

at her

and picked up

to sleep together

until you’re

face was stoic, “How long are you planning

attitude with me?”

“Isn’t it you who’s been in

you want to

silverware tightened before relaxing. “Just

continued to

with me, and I’ll sleep

Seth fell silent.

*

had been at the Ellis Corporation since

and had stayed in

to slack off, but under Seth’s watchful eye, that

various department heads for updates

reviews, the office atmosphere was

heiress of the Ellis family, even if it

couldn’t afford to

the workday approached, Cicely found

the department leaders’ trembling, overly respectful

hadn’t made much progress with the paperwork, but

hadn’t commented on it.

for a bit. Mom’s shopping nearby, and

in a while.”

“I should

need, I’ve

an acknowledgment and moved to the door to put on

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

to it, Cicely knew she

they come. If Patty was in a good

a bit more. If not, best to

Patty wasn’t

naturally,

cozied up in the

around Seth’s.

offered them

Enter title…

aside to take a call and returned after a

took a sip of warm water from his

broke the ice. “Spit it out, will you? What’s

fascinating about my face?”d2

told if she

But with him always buzzing around, she never

hadn’t even mentioned anything about

twirled a strand of her hair, her palm warming against the porcelain

overheard General Manager

talking about this

the socks off the old models.

the know-how and the

a point. Instead of bidding and

to Diaz International? Given

Ellis family, why

“The big fish

all eyeing the Ellis project. Diaz

the Ellis

picks Diaz International, the rest

many would kill for that kind of opportunity.

it, or do you just chicken out when you see

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

with the Ellis family?”

Corporation, I can say that

the Watsons are all more fitting partners than Diaz

family, are you suggesting I use my

Corporation to make things

stance. “What’s wrong with that?

is what counts. Why sweat the small

of pride for you,

into a half-smile. “Is

brows. “Too scared to take

point of running Diaz

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

up. Hmm, that’s actually

she thought about it, the more feasible

narrowed his eyes

her chin in

with that? Assess the value

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

and I’ll cut you in

How

all this rigmarole for?

in Diaz International?”

to me, if

your mother, it’s probably Diaz International,

I’ve been

me an edge over

might just be it.”

was meaningful and unfathomable as he watched

International. So

on the sofa, with a carefree smile

time to let

tightened, clearly

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

International under the Ellis family banner

ever do to tick you

a familiar tone that belonged to none other than

switched

her face a

wariness.

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

too shabby, right? Especially since we will be

soon. No need to

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

a heads-up, don’t even

International.”

her eyes carrying a mild, nonchalant smile,

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

already stood up, his

go.”

probably mindful of Seth’s

if forcefully suppressing a multitude

evening, they had dinner at the Diaz

the real way to make her

night was

to the Ellis residence,

“Where are you off

“Same as today.”

alone in the

I’ll

rested her arm against the car window, twirling a strand of

her slender finger.

few seconds before slowly

half-smile, “Should I prepare some new

you?”

“No need,

Seth fell silent.

the butler welcomed them respectfully. “Miss, we received

you today; they’ve been temporarily

now, I can bring them out for

her shoes and said, “Well, bring them out,

many packages. Cicely sat cross-legged

and started to slice open

knife.

items – mugs,

unpacked them but

many times more focused

when she read documents.

down to find Cicely amidst an array

freshen up;

and handed him a white

it—it had a notable heft, and engraved

her was

rest of the items were

light.

you think of

back this time did I realize there are no traces of you

and it

while still engrossed in the

it was the most natural thing in the world. Seth didn’t

to

white tumbler in the car,

contentedly.

the Ellis estate and setting the staff

focus was still scattered,

the same as what she’d

department heads yesterday.

she set the paperwork aside, paced the office, and

knock on the door.

was Shane, arms laden with parcels. “Ms.

addressed to you.”

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

she resumed her task with the craft

to an office transformed. His desk now

holder, several stylographs, a fresh mouse

couple of notebooks.

mirrored his, albeit with a

cushion

had even appeared on the coffee

question the wisdom of leaving

though she’d done nothing out of the

“What’s for lunch

work did you get

fingers, then hesitantly added a fourth, “Four

computer, bringing up a video of

every bit of Cicely’s

everything but work.

No surprise there.

silent, and Cicely, unaware of its contents, only saw Seth’s

hungry,” she stated,

closed the video.

seeing a screen full of text.

spent the whole

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

over the new objects on the

a reward, I’ll take you out

office for

*

Seth stayed at the Ellis

summoning staff for reports and

days, and even if Cicely wasn’t

she couldn’t help

it was time for the company’s annual

a hectic affair.

Ellis Corporation, Diaz International, and C&P

the same day, at the same hotel,

linked by sky bridges. The topfloor ballrooms were split between the

on the south, the other

below Diaz International’s—a

with the Ellis Corporation.

fitted

pair of silver high-heeled shoes,

as others, she still stood

of her birth, Cicely seemed destined

clothes were simple in design,

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

to look away. Cicely had everything

had brought her to the Diaz International

deliver the expected pleasantries, to clink glasses and

before whisking her away

was orchestrated by Seth’s people, but

father present, the spotlight was on

at the Ellis Corporation gala, they

flurry of toasts and well-wishes, almost

guests, receiving blessings and

mused aloud, “Isn’t

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

taking care of it,” Seth

hand, Cicely teased with a mischievous smile,

are a lot of celebrity

“And plenty of male heartthrobs,

even curious to take a

retorted, “If your

have considered it.”

want to admire the pretty

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

personal viewing.”

about skipping the C&P

low profile there, and even

a whole. C&P, after its grand slam

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

cozy up to

not a patient man, unwilling to waste

ingratiate themselves with him.

a magnet

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

long after, Charlie hurriedly arrived, lowering

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

over at Diaz International’s

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

his wrist,

back soon,”

before following Charlie out.

out of

slouched on the steps

nearly finished bottle of hard liquor. His

a sneer, using the steps for support

his feet and

syllable with a bitterness

venom. “You’re

coldly, flashing a thumbs-up at

admit, you play hardball. I’ve seen just how

the victor who writes history, that I can’t

family never provoked you; we were just in

you coveted what the we had,

drama on the eve of

words hung in the air, the implications

whispers about Seth’s tactics, about how Ray’s family

Ray had once made an indecent pass at

As Seth’s fiancée, this had incensed him enough

against Ray .

that it had been

to confirm the

a shareholder in your family business, my

leave this place immediately.” Seth said

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

who, even after waking from a hospital stay,

ten percent.

bitter, “Rest assured, I know this isn’t my place.

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

of what I have, and I can’t

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

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

today?”

looked at Ray with icy detachment, “If

think you

seemed to strip away the

in his eyes, which now

if he might lunge at Seth in a

vengeful fury.

bottle of whiskey onto the table

shattered, sending sharp shards scattering across

the breaking glass pierced through the festive din like a

to skip a beat. Instinctively,

high heels a clumsy match

remains of the

she let out a breathless

dashed forward, pulling Seth’s arm and embracing him

half a circle to avoid

Seth, her

blood fell onto Seth’s hand, and the woman who

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

moment.

reverberated throughout the

expected Cicely to intervene, felt a surge of rage at

blood on

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

seething with a

glared at Ray.

shot through Cicely’s

Seth’s unrestrained anger, she gripped

“Seth,” she managed

tall.

fierce gaze softened as it landed on her pale, bloodless

him. Stunned, he looked at

drunk and not thinking straight. Have you

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

you?!”

pain, and though her voice carried anger,

clear tremble.

from the physical reaction to

in her eyes made it clear to him—she was crying, whether

fear, anger, or

heart

clear cut on her right

else

and tears fell

of unfamiliar panic and restlessness swirled within Seth.

voice,

seemed to crumble under Seth’s growl, and

and broke

“My… my ankle hurts,” she whispered,

had twisted it in her last desperate lunge to save

heels and, with

his arms.

Ray had been tackled to the ground by

a knee on his back, restraining

Seth and was quick to react when Ray

caused him a moment’s

bottle had

had been cut

Seth carried Cicely away, Ray, pinned down by Charlie and unable to

Seth’s retreating

be so damn arrogant. One

done!”

falter

*

Erik and Creighton rushed to the hospital

frenzy.

a sprained ankle and a two-centimeter laceration on

but not

then, she had already been treated, her wounds

Cicely’s eyes were red and swollen from

Erik and Creighton, she greeted them with a

“Dad.”

a phone call and

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

their concern

his concern, which he channeled into anger

a day of hardship in her life,

year, this

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

and

a glare. “Am I not allowed to speak

Enter title…

and it’ll still hurt if you scold him, but if scolding

make the pain stop, then

he said, cutting himself off mid-sentence. She had to

all his words were

could he not see

hair somewhat disheveled but

the moment at the gala when she had unexpectedly run up from

shield him with her

Totally unexpected.

and anger now took on a new definition upon

process these swirling emotions, the

Seth listened intently to the doctor, then

Cicely with red eyes and pursed lips, looking as

her arms and wrapped them

under her knees, lifting

sense of peace to the two old

watching.

Seth

returning to the Ellis

she had never mentioned leaving the

holiday after the gala, Seth stayed

Cicely company.

restroom, washing up – any time Cicely needed

to carry her, never leaving her

Seth was impeccable

actions were bittersweet

Cicely from the bathroom to

waiting.

the doctor’s

in pressure and Cicely would wince. This

heavy silence from the man beside her, who seemed to

feel as tense as a

residence, any sitting with

inevitably turned

alone and bored in her room, insisted Seth take her

went, even if it was just to

most of

talk about the

family.

postponed the deal which

year to after

if Diaz International was interested in taking the

response was the same as it had been initially with

didn’t dwell

on to other matters.

Cicely wasn’t interested in company affairs, she found

and being able

just before the new year. After all,

had been

on airs at this time. But

on previous

family prepared a lavish dinner for her.

brought up the topic

back to the Diaz family

surprised, as Patty’s mood didn’t match

legally married, spending New

was the most appropriate and

moment, glanced at the young couple, and

somewhat absent-mindedly.

Creighton’s reaction, suddenly felt a deep pang

not at home, the vastness of the

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

festive gatherings, would

*

Yearr’s Eve, Seth took Cicely

residence.

with them to pick up Danielle from the

Creighton agreed that leaving Danielle alone in the hospital over

After negotiating with the doctor, they finally

bring her

However, the image of

other, feels sad just thinking about

might liven things up, serving

again, the thought of Danielle’s haughty, perpetually

that it might be better off without

staff had been bustling since yesterday, and

being home for the New Year’s

a sumptuous feast knowing Miss

anyone at the hospital.

who should

face immediately

with Danielle. When

expression paused for a

smiling.

seated in her wheelchair, also had a

A shadow crossed her face, but she brushed it aside.

that made it

are you doing here?” Seth

was as flat

storm.

her lip, hands clasped tightly, not saying a

here. We couldn’t leave her all

holidays, could we?”

of anger rising in her chest, but she

best not to let her emotions

dad who applied for her discharge. If anyone was

it should’ve been the Ellis family. You stay here for the

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

ashamed?”

turned even more

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

to contain her fury. “The guest I invite is

Danielle got herself injured saving Seth’s life. We owe

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

in taking care of her every single day of

sneer. “By that logic, any

accident and play the

the Ellis family’s

pale with anger, and she whirled to glare at Seth,

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

desperate for a mother figure that you have to bring

her?”

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

you who’s making

“You…”

voice cut through the

light and smiling, settled

as she quietly awaited

here to celebrate, not to start

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