The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

Chapter 2031-2040

So, what do you want to do then?”

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

speak, but no words came out.

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

hospital room spotless again.

Charlie returned with a fresh lunch from a nearby deli.

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

“Eat up.”d2

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

Enter title…

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

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

use the restroom on your own.”

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

the fork.

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

“Have you eaten?”

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

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

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

Danielle didn’t dare to press him further.

*

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

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

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

Issac stared at her silently.

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

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

make sure she gets it.”

Issac was moved. “I’ll send someone.”

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

message popped up from Emiliana.

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

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

Cicely: [I’ll add him.]

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

I

ssac was still there when she looked up.

“Why haven’t you left?”

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

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

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

driver’s ID before letting Cicely leave.

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

accepted her friend request.

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

Cicely: [Have you had lunch yet?]

Santino: [Not yet.]

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

Santino did too.

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

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

mask and sunglasses hiding his well-known face.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

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

hope you’re not pressed for time.”

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

Cicely smiled as the dishes began to arrive.

“Thanks for bringing my car back.”

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

difficult.”

Cicely raised an eyebrow. “Fine by me.”

“Are you out on your own again today?”

The question felt ironic to Cicely.

“Is that strange?”

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

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

your age seems a bit lonely too soon.”

Lonely.

Cicely paused. The word felt foreign to her.

She had never considered it a description for herself.

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

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

annoying.”

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

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

“Considerate and understanding?”

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

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

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

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

you through more efficient work.

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

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

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

more you’ve won.”

Cicely’s gaze turned distant.

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

The more it hurts, the more she wins.

Savoring Santino’s words, Cicely smiled.

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

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

Cicely remained noncommittal.

After all, actors portray life in all its facets.

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

for a while.”

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

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

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

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

gratitude.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

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

Santino seemed quite pleased with the idea.

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

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

wedding photos.

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

There were two photos.

One was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

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

suggest such a clichéd stance.

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

might take in the future.

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

of its authenticity.

“Great, wrap it up for me.”

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

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

Actually, he was completely taken aback.

“Just two wedding photos?”

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

fitting.”

Santino nodded in understanding.

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

sunglasses, he was recognized.

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

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

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

Congratulations, you look stunning.”

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

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

you?”

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

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

he proposed with is the same brand you endorse.”

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

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

photo with her.

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

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

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

all the best.”

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

They both chuckled at the apparent misunderstanding.

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

Santino took them casually.

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

picture on social media?”

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

“Thank you.”

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

“Any plans now?” he asked.

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

ago.

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

and rejecting her lunch.

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

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

needs, including trips to the bathroom.

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

very noon.

Santino was right.

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

If not for her, then for someone else.

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

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

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

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

there.”

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

Issac dismissed the caregiver Seth had arranged for Danielle and replaced

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

even the unexpected ones, had been meticulously arranged.

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

the call and dialed Cicely’s number.

— Powered off.

His brow furrowed, and he then called the apartment.

Enter title…

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

yet.”d2

“Alright,” Seth replied coolly.

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

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

been dining out quite often lately.”

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

“Sure thing.”

*

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

past two years.

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

didn’t skimp on expenses.

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

lighting and the sound quality were top-notch.

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

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

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

interest.

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

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

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

Boring.

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

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

recognized her.

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

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

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

with the staff.

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

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

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

excruciating detail?”

“Not quite.”

Cicely sighed. “Sounds dull.”

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

“It better be the best meal ever.”

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

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

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

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

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

personified.

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

caught their attention.

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

responsible for Santino’s interview was curious about her.

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

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

opportunity that they were just friends.

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

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

up a frenzy.

Their plans did not include a love affair for Santino.

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

Cicely was after the interview.

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

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

was already dark outside.

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

seeing him, they erupted into excited screams.

Santino waved back with a smile.

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

anxious.

“Santino, who is she?”

“Is she your new assistant?”

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

chaos, explaining that they were just friends.

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

moment.

Some fans even started crying on the spot.

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

detached amusement.

“What a spectacle,” she remarked.

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

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

find them ridiculous?”

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

suffocating.”

Cicely narrowed her eyes, “How so?”

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

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

happy.”

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

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

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

later.”

Cicely understood; such people did exist.

“That does sound suffocating.”

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

interested in the topic at all.

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

they’ll be returned to you shortly.”

Cicely did as instructed.

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

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

Cicely was genuinely intrigued.

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

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

dish she had seen in a movie.

*

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

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

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

she glanced towards the door.

“Sir, you’re back.”

“Yes. Where is she?”

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

She had thought the couple would come home together.

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

phone and continued to call Cicely.

Voicemail.

It had been voicemail all afternoon.

He turned and dialed Charlie’s number instead.

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

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

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

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

Hollywood-themed diner.”

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

speechless.

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

online. You’ll see.”

Online.

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

overwhelming.

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

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

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

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

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

who knew her could recognize her without a doubt.

Seth’s eyes were cold and terrifying.

Carly shivered from where she stood.

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

turning to walk into the living room.

“Carly, you can head home.”

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

instructions.

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

“I’ll take care of it.”

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

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

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

still simmering on the stove.

*

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

frequently on his watch.

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

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

uncomfortable it will be for you.”

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

Santino fell silent.

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

He was trending.

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

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

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

Santino didn’t make much of it.

After dinner, Santino handed her a scarf.

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

recognized.”

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

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

When they stepped out, Santino shielded Cicely behind him.

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

Who was she?

Was Santino in love?

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

The assistant tried to explain, to no avail.

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

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

displeasure was clear.

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

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

to know who.”

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

persistent journalists.

Santino pulled Cicely away.

*

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

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

pulling up to the apartment building.

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

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

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

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

man opposite her.

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

building.

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

around his neck.

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

tightened as he turned away from the window.

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

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

with his back to her.

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

coat, then bending down to change her shoes.

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

with a detached gaze.

Cicely glanced at him and gathered her statically charged hair.

“Did you come back early today?”

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

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

toward the bedroom while tying it up.

“You can wash your hands outside too.”

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

lingered on him for even a second.

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

within him, his voice tense and cold.

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

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

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

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

toward the bedroom.

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

bedroom entrance.

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

“What are you doing?”

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

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

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

“Drinking again?”

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

I’m tired and want to rest early.”

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

face in her neck.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seth had never been treated like this before.

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

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

her onto the bed.

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

to the mattress.

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

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

breath a chilling mix of anger and frost.

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

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

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

you’re expecting from me?

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

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

Her lips twisted into a defiant smirk.

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

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

into some heartless jerk?”

Enter title…

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

She had actually considered all of this.

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

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

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

Danielle go?”

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

and dripping with sarcasm.

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

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

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

Seth remained silent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

my face and laugh at my failure.

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

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

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

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

mockery.

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

Whether Cicely liked him was always clear.

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

o why did he lose control tonight?

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

her face.

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

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

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

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

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

such things so easily.

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

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

they’re worthless.”

Her expression briefly turned chillingly cold and dismissive before she pushed

him away and left for the bathroom without a word.

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

*

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

hair, clearly post-shower as well.

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

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

changed by Seth.

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

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

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

with a calm expression.

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

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

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

window.

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

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

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

“Right.”

“Good. I trust you.”

What other choice did she have?

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

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

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

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

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

Seth paused, then pulled her into his arms.

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

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

her through and through.

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

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

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

arms still tight around her.

Would she leave him?

How could she?

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

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

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

way to mend or fill it.

*

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

point to check in at the apartment in person.

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

and had woken up early.

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

the door for Charlie.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Charlie caught the keys deftly and immediately went downstairs.

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

room.

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

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

was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

hang them up.”

“Sure thing.”

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

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

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

remembering when.

Her tone suggested she was in a good mood.

“A bit to the right.”

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

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

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

bullets.

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

steady.

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

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

ought to have built some rapport.”

Charlie nearly leapt out the nearby window.

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

“Time to eat.”

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

left. There, that’s perfect.”

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

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

“Time for breakfast.”

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

After breakfast, Seth and Cicely left the apartment together.

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

to the office.

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

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

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

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

the affair that the matter finally settled.

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

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

had deliberately quashed the story.

Cicely didn’t dwell on it.

Once it was over, it was over.

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

caused.

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

it was best to let it go.

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

her.

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

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

evenings.

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

his work.

His efficiency visibly increased.

Yet, it was clear he was getting tired.

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

find reasons to be understanding and to feel for them.

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

accommodate them.

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

want to see him exhausted.

Thankfully, it was only for a week.

*

Cicely spent a day resting at home during the holiday.

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

trouble at the hospital again.]

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

leading to another emotional breakdown.

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

was all an act to garner attention.

It had worked for her before.

Danielle’s room was in disarray.

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

deliberate mess.

Cicely visited around noon, bringing lunch from home.

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

shifting to a feigned calm as she faced Cicely coldly.

“Here to gloat over me again?”

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

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

around?”

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

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

someday.”

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

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

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

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

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

your grand design.”

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

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

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

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

remember, Danielle, you still owe me.”

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

and arranged the lunch before Danielle.

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

smirk forming on her lips as she turned to Cicely.

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

me with kindness?”

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

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

use that term to describe me?”

Danielle’s face turned sour with malice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

anger and agitation.

up, you know. Getting angry is

I will be

Enter title…

her coldly and then let out a mocking

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

off.”d2

as she looked at Danielle, who seemed

faint smile. “How shameless are you to

for you, even if you wish for a

it, and neither will Seth. Even blood

think you are in Seth’s

three or four decades to live? How patient do you think he’ll be,

day out? Or rather, do you think

someone disabled?”

violently as she glared at

her most

that you’re off the hook just because you’re

away. You were so proud,

from your

Maybe if you get better soon, you might

don’t blame me for

the neatly laid out food before her.

icy, detached voice rang

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

over until you’re willing to

annoying.”

arm began to lift, it froze in place.

Cicely would win.

my appetite. Please, leave

the nurse standing by.

she eats or

“Understood.”

took a deep

her again, turning towards the

two steps, the door swung open from the

expression darkening as the man who entered caught her

Ray. The sight of Cicely brought a surge of intense

the restroom, rushed in, positioning himself

front of Cicely.

behind Issac, furrowed her brows as

She reached out and

Ray, feeling

stiffened, his teeth clenched as he glared at

mixed with rage.

smiled, “Mr. Ray, don’t you

who nearly took advantage of me that night when

score yet,

castrated you myself.”

words hit

never told you

night?”

“Does what he say negate the fact that you

raped me?”

smile, she added,

genuinely regret it. Let’s put

straight. It was your drunken folly that night

this mess, not anyone else’s doing.

and dependent. Let’s not

listening to the exchange,

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

course, I know Danielle is the biggest

nodded with a smile, “Then I

cleared up, I’ll take

Cicely as they left the hospital room. “Ray wasn’t

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

I

clenched the bag in her

brought back the

so vivid and terrifying that even the

shudder.

“Miss?”

the memories, “It seems Mr. Ray is quite

had been skeptical. A rich playboy,

true feelings

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

family on the brink, he’s

clear she means a

was orchestrated by his family

at the

liked Danielle so much he’d nearly get her

*

room, Ray stood by Danielle’s bed. His

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

Ray any more attention than she

fork clumsily, she shoveled food into her

indifference.

of the tactics used,

looking up from her plate. “Is

and your family is on its

a chance for a comeback, but now, you

blown it for good.”

tight his knuckles

orchestrated the downfall of my

Danielle. I’ve told you not to be fooled by his

what you can imagine. My dad said

started his agency, he had his sights set on bringing

a guy who hasn’t graduated from

to make everyone relax their

fatal blow. He

night, I wasn’t

hadn’t shown up, who

the receiving end of my

of color. She had pondered this question

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

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

deep breath. “I know you wouldn’t

up before. I’ve checked with the doctors

is optimistic, albeit a rough road ahead. I came

ask you

up, her voice restrained

of that car for him, was it truly out

or was it just a ploy to achieve some ulterior

and finally turned to look

only desire was

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

be so obstinate. If you knew the

would you still

a long silence, Danielle set her fork down and looked up at him. “What

are

his lips together. “You should

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

quietly. “I didn’t expect you to brush me off

not brushing you off. If I had died, what would be the point

or not,

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

if I stop caring for you, it’s like denying everything

can’t, I need to

seen Ray this composed yet so

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

telling what kind of madness

to.

*

of the elevator on the

across the

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

furrowed imperceptibly

on her purse slackened for a moment

a familiar, faint smile on her

was heavy. “You hate hospitals. What are you

episode. Came to check on her with some

admitted. After a brief silence, she glanced

in bullying a cripple, so

Cicely arrived at the

grasped what Seth was

on your behalf to check on Miss Danielle, considering

She thought it might

faltered

her neck, presenting only

of her eyes and lips

are volatile, and your

even leading to harm.”

him with a light smile. “I have Issac with me.

could hurt me when I’m fully

“The sooner she

ties with her.”

replied, hands tucked into the

braved

that demeanor. No overt anger, just a serene and

displayed it, the clearer Seth could sense

sarcasm and rebellion.

reached out

just

Cicely stepped aside, avoiding his touch. “Whether I have

to join me. And as it happens,

sharing a meal

such blunt

The question floated into Seth’s ears, simple

he looked up to find

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

conclusion in

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

and pondered for

at

“Alright.”

gates of

window at the sprawling manor, feeling an unexpected

dark green pines stood tall but failed to bring any

vitality.

furrowed her brows, and the already somewhat suppressed

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

empty, with servants occasionally moving about in silence. Even

to be cautious. “Miss,

her arrival, a look

didn’t you give us

upstairs, “Where’s

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

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he

made some

her ascent up the stairs, turning to

step, “And what else?”

were a couple of

deepened as she turned and headed straight for the kitchen.

face, she ordered the servants to

buckwheat wraps remained, along with

of carrots and celery, the

of ham and cheese.

a nearby chair, she lifted

for my

servants were too frightened to reply, their heads

“Sir has been preferring lighter meals these

specifically asked for these dishes. Even if we prepared more,

them. Elderly folks’ meals

there’s no need

knew Brody well enough not to doubt his words, but in her

was always a

she found Creighton slumped in a chair

a book resting on his chest, his head tilted, seemingly asleep.

hit Cicely, and her eyes

now had but one master.

corner for

had married early, head over heels in love, insisting

her father alone

deeply in

covering him with

out of the study.

from his nap and came downstairs

his face lit up with an

little rascal, why didn’t you tell me you were

to hide before I

“You’re not

there be so many

the couch. “He’s

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

for

nodded, “You’ll have to ask him. He listens

to me.”

talk to

to Creighton for the rest of the afternoon. She badgered

playfully demanding

amused and exasperated.

and son squared off while she placed

occasionally chiming in with unsolicited

is golden; don’t meddle

afternoon was lively and bustling, and

seemed to

be.

dinner, Creighton

busy to make it back. Creighton frowned, giving her

“Are you

for us to

Creighton relented.

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

coming home tonight.]

a dramatic runaway scenario with

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

anything amiss.

she didn’t

at the Ellis estate’s doorstep. Cicely

to assist Seth with

imply for

voice neutral,

know.”

for a

your message as an invitation for us

could respond, he had pulled

into the living

closeness, smiled, “I’ve

past few days, have

“Not yet.”

the staff whip up a few dishes.

The dishes were all tailored

him for dinner, but as

the inexplicable stares of her father and

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

two aren’t fighting, are

a deep breath, “Just came out to grab

the coffee table, bending down to pick up her

to

Enter title…

anticipated her return to

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

estate isn’t

water bottle, her expression nonchalant.

staying here for the

emotion crossed Seth’s brow as he methodically chewed

set down his

explain myself

very well. Now that you’ve explained it,

bottle for a sip, “I said

over the same person

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

here just on a

have some. I’m on

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

my dad and

could

prove I’m not fighting with

was impassive, her lips curled in an almost imperceptible

hearing the last part, coupled with her subtle

been placed on the question she

noon.

it? If not, she would prove

you want to stay, stay. It’s just a

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

home, nothing’s

sip from his water glass.

his easy acquiescence, but the feeling

even if he disagreed today,

Cicely came to understand why he

such an easy compromise.

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

what their conversation would

matters.

browsed her shopping app for little home decor

LEGO sets, and notebooks with pens. Not

liked

was knocked, the servant opened it to find

frost, stepping inside.

“How heartless, sending you

the

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

You can sit and wait for

errand. Mr. Seth asked me to bring some

on my

finally looked up, turned around,

Brody, seeing this, quickly directed the servant to carry

suitcase upstairs.

bidding farewell

glass of milk. After finishing her

upstairs.

talk about for

The servant had refilled their water several

clothes and went to the bathroom where the

while since she’d indulged in a good

slid into the tub and let

bathroom window was a view of the garden and a

ground lights. It seemed they had been

especially for her return.

of boredom, she had asked her

them had

the edge of the bathtub, staring at that place for

the edge of the tub, twisted a hot

over her eyes.

oil dripped into the water, soothing

again. She drifted in

felt a sudden chill.

the coolness, and she instinctively slid down

the towel from her eyes, her hand was

towel fell away, and she looked up to see

side of the tub.

to be the first to drown in

it was by the man who had

room had dissipated when

feel cold.

blame.” Cicely tried

and began to undress in a

frowned, “What are you

missing a beat, dropping his clothes into

does one do in a bathroom?

the towel beside the

she was scooped up

the towel to her chest and glared up at him.

to do?”

down at the woman in his

the warm bath, more radiant than usual.

low and enticing. “Share a

embarrassingly, “You should

without drowning.”

her quiet, gentle demeanor,

aura, he preferred her

demeanor.

began to run his

hair for

“No.”

spray of the shower interrupted

her consent before turning on the shower.

in Cicely, but Seth’s hand covered her

but that

anger before it even

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

yanked away by

crossing in front of her, trying to cover up

modesty she could.

lathered shampoo into her hair with

to rinse it clean with

lowered and eyes closed, Cicely

merit. After all, there were more than

fallen for

he applied conditioner to her hair, he nudged

he took a quick shower

cool expression, Cicely

Are you planning

there any

it’s quite a

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

will.”

of anger tinged

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

compared to

better.”

sleep

gaze drifted leisurely over her

contours of her body.

imperceptibly, and he reached out to

the shower cascading over her

eyes closed to prevent water from flowing into

and

pressing against

Seth had already set the showerhead aside, his

against hers. “We should get out and dry your

voice tightened, “Let go. I can

we’re not going out

react, Seth’s lips closed over hers abruptly.

moved with a familiarity that made it

out. She hit his shoulder twice, more

pain. “This is

it wasn’t convenient, but you seemed not

it down in

around his waist, and

blurred until she was on the brink

the hairdryer and slipping her into pajamas, Seth placed her

away from him, her soft hair spreading

the bed,

away, his long arm scooped

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

too exhausted to

*

The next day.

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

ones

considerate, gentle, and protective—or so he

to it. Yet now, with her

all too pleased.

up and slipping into her loose loungewear, she

and listless, she found Creighton

their morning exercise and were

his head

“You really should fix that habit of

the servant, sipped

“Sleeping in is the best part of a

Skipping breakfast is bad for your health, and too

Breakfast is the most important meal. Why

you leave

Cicely speechless for a

office. Why would

your holiday. You could learn a thing

instead of ending up clueless. What? Didn’t

her face showing clear reluctance.

he

good at passing the

he really didn’t tell

she genuinely didn’t know, Creighton

grandfather to

come?”

Cicely curled her legs onto the couch, resting her elbow on

of elegance

you’ll have lunch by

returned, and they were already leaving her to

night before, Danielle’s name had come up

if leaving her alone in the hospital while the rest

was incredibly inappropriate and

they were set to visit the hospital

dared say the

Danielle would have a

for dinner. His

first, while Cicely sat with Creighton

going up to her

desk.

word, she went to the bathroom,

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

climbed into bed to play

had finished his

on the bed, walked over, brushed her forehead with his hand,

a gentle peck on the lips.

for me,

“How horny can you be? It’s been

you up to?”

quirked with a hint of teasing, “What makes you think

rest tonight?”

“Then what am

there are plenty of things we

Cicely pushed him gently, “Then hurry

pushed away by her, Seth’s body pressed

with unrestrained

herself gasping for air. She

letting out a soft whimper. It was

on her, just barely.

to kiss me to death?” she managed

guard with their unintentional

death? I wouldn’t dream

now, Mrs. Diaz,” he said with

sweet punishment.” “Misunderstood?” Cicely’s drowsy

handsome face just inches from hers. A

penalty for self-justification,

me? Shouldn’t I

face held the same amused expression,

smile. “Go ahead. Punish me any way you

head, calmly and seriously meeting his gaze. “You

I’m so into you, any

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

jawline, “So, ask

heart to give me

eyebrow and ran her hand across his

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

emotion in her eyes, Seth felt a subtle stir

chin, “You like me that

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

with it, “But have you ever heard, love and hate are

at the start,

and smiling eyes, but

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

I doubt it will. I wouldn’t choose to

like a bee sting to the nerve, his dark eyes fixed on

let go of

shirt was already missing two buttons that

unfastened the rest.

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

to leave and then paused, “If

you up my way.”

what his method of waking her might be.

from the shower, Cicely

glanced at him, then refocused

game.

climbed into bed and snatched the

strongly, “Is there something you

join me at

talking, he swiped and

about business,

do there?”

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

in

I have to

think your dad asking you to

on you

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

in the future, your only sure bet

Ellis family forever.

a weak moment and start

you won’t even know

around you

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

isn’t it

in your own hands,

watched him quietly, “What makes you insecure? You

you want

to her, his gazes

“It sounds like you’re

who leaves a trail of

saying. But beyond these two reasons, is there anything

expression didn’t improve,

in their depths

In

be reflecting on why I harbor such

her phone back, “I’ve downloaded some files

much as you can before sleep, and ask me

understand tomorrow.”

the phone, the document app he had just downloaded for

with a blur of text.

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

I can’t stay by your side

mood.”

a coat, and walk out. Her face looked

it wasn’t about

a tantrum.

＊

in his study for two hours. Approaching eleven at night,

his face looking

in the bedroom, the lights had

with the phone in her

reignited.

Heartless woman.

the phone from her hand and

she hadn’t closed.

one he’d opened for her before

face

rush to

and tossing it aside, he

he pulled her into his

the man’s arms and scent, shifted

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

her up, maybe keep her up

her one sentence, she fell silent again,

petty.

＊

he woke

cup of strong coffee.

morning grumpiness, she was

robbed of breath.

she kicked him hard a couple of

mind?!”

a mischievous grin as he swung his legs out

shine, off to

am not going.” Cicely yanked the comforter over her head

your face.” Seth’s voice carried

Cicely didn’t budge.

really gonna make me do this the hard

comforter off with

what strength could she muster

a pillow

by, and the pillow barely registered

over this, I’m not going to

down, picked up the pillow, and placed

If I don’t see you up by

don’t want me to wake you up for the

back to sleep.”

gritted her teeth in frustration. As Seth turned away, the corners

into a sly

the covers aside and stomped off to

onto his

reflection in the mirror.

a subtle raise of his eyebrows, he shifted aside to give

her brush, and Seth, as if

at their reflection.

aside.

she started brushing. It

toothpaste.

slight smile of her

breakfast, they headed to the Ellis Corporation

of the document from last night

to know anything.

So what am I supposed to do at the

just smiled

why he hadn’t mentioned

new desk and chair in the corner,

immediate deployment.

documents are on the computer;

face

to anticipate this excuse, “There are printed

matter what excuse she came

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

pile of folders.

you don’t understand, and

will you

a C&P

leaving me

there wolves in the

the reading; I’ll be back

opened her mouth to retort but held back. “Just

glanced at her before leaving the

clear sign she was

possibly stir up in the

Seth left, Cicely did take

but within half an hour, the

and her

minutes later, she left the office, returning after another half-hour to

the drawers, fiddled with

doodled on a black leather notebook

and then, noticing the time, went

desk and the

noon. Cicely sat there, the picture of

student.

did you get

to me, so

three files in a whole morning

stung.

bristled, “Mr. Diaz, the fact that I’m even sitting here

the black notebook she had

found her doodles—a passable cartoon portrait, and

written in a confident, flamboyant

flushed slightly, but

nonchalance.

pursed his lips and took a deep

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

tidied the documents away. Seth

as if

nose and sank into his

Come over here.”

No complaints

grudgingly clutched the files and approached

into an embrace. “What the heck, Seth?

office,” Cicely said, leaning back

tightened around her waist, his voice deep

one taking liberties here,

“What do you mean?”

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

Now, you can’t even be bothered

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

is?”

“Respectful?

you, and it’s

of impunity, but Seth

harboring intentions

that would mean cheating,

Seth was momentarily speechless.

smiled,

me, it’s

her away and leaned back in his chair, turning

his expression

Cicely watched him—

was

Charlie from a local diner, indeed

no

“Aren’t you eating?”

drowned out by the rhythmic clacking of the

mood was as frosty as

office was suffused with the unmistakable

a big deal’.

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

laden with food, while he didn’t even bother

her way.

it. Nobody said you had

“Then I guess you’ll

tonight.”

looked up at her with an icy

and picked up

we have to sleep together

until you’re

was stoic, “How long are you planning to

attitude with me?”

it you who’s been in a

you want to keep

grip on her silverware tightened before relaxing.

continued to

me, and

Seth fell silent.

*

been at the Ellis Corporation since the

stayed in his

slack off, but under Seth’s watchful eye, that wasn’t

various department heads for updates on all

tedious reports and progress reviews, the office atmosphere

well-known heiress of the Ellis family,

she couldn’t afford to be

of the workday approached, Cicely found most of her

the department leaders’ trembling, overly respectful demeanors

made much progress with the paperwork,

hadn’t commented on it.

Mom’s shopping nearby, and we’ll

in a while.”

twitched, “I should probably let my dad

need, I’ve already told

acknowledgment and moved to the door to put

they descended the stairs, but Patty hadn’t arrived yetTo claim Cicely wasn’t the least bit fazed about

down to it, Cicely knew she

as they come. If

If not, best to steer clear. It wasn’t like it

that Patty wasn’t her biggest

naturally,

door. She cozied up in the lounge area, wrapping

around Seth’s.

them some tea

Enter title…

to take a call and returned after

took a sip of warm water from his

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

fascinating about my face?”d2

She’d always been told if she didn’t

could ask him. But with him always buzzing

even

twirled a strand of her hair, her palm

overheard General

this new

the old models. We

the

of bidding and choosing another manufacturer,

hand the deal over to Diaz International? Given the

Ellis family, why haven’t

expression was cold. “The big fish like the

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

with the Ellis family’s offer just

picks Diaz International,

would kill for that kind of

or do you just chicken out when you see the likes

Watsons? Or is it just that

with the Ellis family?”

the interim head of the Ellis Corporation, I can say

are all more fitting partners

work with the Ellis family, are you suggesting

Ellis Corporation to make things

by his stance. “What’s

is what counts. Why sweat the small

you, I’ll bang

twitched into a

brows. “Too scared to take the big deals, too

point of running Diaz International? Might as well

family swallow it up. That way, you wouldn’t have to

Hmm, that’s actually a pretty solid

she thought about it, the more

narrowed his eyes

silence, Cicely propped her chin in

go through with that? Assess the value

you in the Ellis

and I’ll cut you

shares. How

coolly. “What’s all

in Diaz International?”

to me, if there’s anything on this

besides your mother, it’s probably Diaz

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

sleeve that gives me an

might just be it.”

was meaningful and unfathomable as he

of Diaz International. So

with a carefree smile on her

time to let

clearly displeased with

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

International under the Ellis family banner the

International ever do to tick

Cicely, a familiar tone that belonged to none other than

then switched on

her face a

wariness.

loud. Then I figured it wasn’t such a bad

on the Ellis family ain’t too shabby, right? Especially since we

No need to

scoff, “The future is the

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

International.”

her eyes carrying a

wasn’t bringing it up, neither would

since Seth had already stood up,

go.”

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

as if forcefully suppressing a

dinner at the

the real

night was

Ellis residence, Seth took the wheel while

you off

“Same as today.”

in

there, I’ll disturb

the car window, twirling a strand

her slender finger.

was silent for a few seconds

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

you?”

shook her head, “No need,

Seth fell silent.

them respectfully. “Miss, we

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

them now, I can bring

shoes and said, “Well, bring them

indeed many packages. Cicely sat

a waterproof mat and started to

knife.

–

only unpacked them but also studied them. Her demeanor

many times more focused

when she read documents.

showered, he came down to find

freshen up; we’re up

him a white travel tumbler.

heft, and engraved

name beneath. Beside her was a matching

rest of the items were

light.

you think of buying all

coming back this time did I realize there

and it feels

still engrossed in the small items, her tone

natural thing in the world. Seth didn’t say much

to

the white tumbler in the car,

contentedly.

her at the Ellis estate and setting the staff to

scattered, but

were much the same as what she’d

department heads yesterday.

aside, paced the office, and then there

knock on the door.

parcels.

addressed to you.”

perked up at the sight,

she resumed her task with the

an office transformed. His desk now sported

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

couple of notebooks.

mirrored his,

a cushion

bouquet of flowers had even appeared

of leaving her alone

acting as though she’d done nothing out of the ordinary,

for

work did

then hesitantly added a

the computer, bringing up a video of

every bit of Cicely’s

everything but work.

No surprise there.

was silent, and Cicely, unaware of

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

closed the video.

of text. Seth looked at her,

the whole

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

the new objects on the

reward, I’ll take

the office for a meal was music

*

at the Ellis

summoning staff for

several days, and even if Cicely wasn’t eager

she

everything settled, it was time for

a hectic affair.

and C&P were arranged

on the same day, at

towers, linked by sky bridges. The

south, the

just below Diaz International’s—a

with the Ellis Corporation.

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

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

others, she still stood out as

the moment of her birth, Cicely seemed

simple in design, yet undeniably

The man by her side was distractingly handsome, a

onlookers to look away. Cicely had everything people longed

to the Diaz International

expected pleasantries, to clink

her away to the

orchestrated by Seth’s people,

the spotlight was on

arrival at the Ellis Corporation gala, they

of toasts and well-wishes, almost like a bride and groom

their guests, receiving blessings

seats, Cicely mused aloud, “Isn’t the

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

are taking care of

in her hand, Cicely teased with a mischievous

are a lot of celebrity beauties

her coolly, “And

even curious to take

your

have considered it.”

to

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

personal viewing.”

seemed serious about skipping the C&P gala. Cicely understood

keep a low profile there, and even more so

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

of many. Naturally, the number of

to

unwilling to waste time on

ingratiate themselves with him.

gala was a magnet for journalists, both

was deliberate, with

long after, Charlie hurriedly

Seth.”Mr. Diaz, Ray got drunk at the

commotion over at

darkened. As he stood to leave,

wrist,

back soon,” he said, squeezing her

before following Charlie out.

until he was out of sight,

Diaz International’s gala, Ray was slouched on the steps of

of hard liquor. His

he greeted Seth with a sneer, using the

to his feet

syllable

each word with venom. “You’re impressive,

flashing a

admit, you play hardball. I’ve seen just

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

My family never provoked you; we were

coveted what the we had, you seized

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

the air, the implications clear to

about Seth’s tactics,

because Ray had

fiancée, this had

against Ray .

speculated that it had been a premeditated strike. Now,

to confirm

you are still a shareholder in your family business,

place immediately.”

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

a

ten percent.

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

International event. I can’t

the last of what I have, and I

so tell me,

and ruined Diaz International, let you

today?”

Ray with icy detachment, “If you couldn’t even

what makes you think you can

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

the drunken stupor in his eyes,

he looked as if he might lunge at Seth in a

vengeful fury.

the bottle of whiskey onto the table next to

sending sharp shards

the breaking glass pierced

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

strides towards Seth, her high heels a clumsy match for her urgency.

brandished the jagged remains of the

let out a

pulling Seth’s arm and embracing

spun half a circle to avoid

Seth, her

bright red blood fell onto Seth’s hand, and

seemed about to fall out of

moment.

collective gasp reverberated

intervene, felt

blood on

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

seething with a murderous

glared at Ray.

Cicely’s arm

Seth’s unrestrained anger, she gripped his

trembling with pain. “Seth,” she managed

tall.

gaze softened as it landed on her pale,

him. Stunned, he

Have you had too

good do you think provoking him will do

you?!”

her voice carried

clear tremble.

from the

welling up in her eyes made it clear to him—she

anger,

his heart as he surveyed her

resting on a clear cut on her right

“Where else

bit her lip, and

restlessness swirled within Seth. He growled

voice, “Talk

last ounce of self-control seemed to crumble under

indignation, fear—all converged and broke down silently,

my ankle hurts,” she whispered, recalling

had twisted it in her

high heels and, with a grimace, bent

his arms.

the ground

knee on his back, restraining his

had been right beside Seth and was quick to react when Ray

panicked cry had caused him a

had swung

swiftly, Cicely had been cut on

away, Ray, pinned down by Charlie and unable

could only shout at Seth’s retreating figure with

One day, you’ll pay for

done!”

didn’t falter in his

*

Erik and Creighton rushed to the hospital

frenzy.

and a two-centimeter laceration on her

shallow, but

been treated, her wounds bandaged, and

Cicely’s eyes were red and

her Erik and Creighton, she greeted them with a tearful

“Dad.”

had just ended a phone call and returned to the

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

concern

concern, which he

known a day of hardship in her life,

new year, this happens! Seth,

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

listen and followed

her a glare. “Am I

Enter title…

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

pain stop, then go

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

his words were stuffed back down his

a lifetime, could he not see

watched Cicely, her hair somewhat disheveled but

at the gala when she had unexpectedly

shield him

Totally unexpected.

anger now took on a new definition upon

process these

to the doctor, then

with red eyes and pursed lips,

her arms and wrapped them around his

passed under her knees,

understanding brought a slight sense of peace

watching.

Cicely and Seth

and returning to the Ellis residence

had never mentioned leaving the Ellis

after the gala, Seth stayed

Cicely company.

up – any time

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

Seth was impeccable

actions were

from the bathroom to the bed

waiting.

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

pressure and Cicely would wince. This

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

tense as a

residence, any sitting with Creighton that lasted more

inevitably turned to business

in her room,

to

most of

them talk about the mechanical manufacturing

family.

which should

to

International

it had

Cicely’s. However, Creighton didn’t dwell

on to other matters.

interested in company

being able to

at the Ellis residence just before the

had been injured protecting Seth, Patty

airs at this time.

than on previous

prepared a lavish dinner for

the dinner table, she brought up the topic of the New Year’s Eve

Seth to bring Cicely back to the

as Patty’s mood didn’t

since they were legally married, spending

residence was the most appropriate

for a moment, glanced at the young couple, and

somewhat absent-mindedly.

Creighton’s reaction, suddenly felt a deep

at home, the

returned to spend a few days, the

gatherings, would leave

*

morning of the New Yearr’s Eve, Seth

residence.

pick up Danielle from the

agreed that leaving Danielle alone in the hospital

too heartless. After negotiating with the

bring

the image of two

home, staring at each other, feels sad just thinking about

might liven things up, serving as

of Danielle’s haughty,

might be

since yesterday, and

for

knowing Miss Danielle would

anyone at the hospital. And Cicely, arriving at

who should

face

with Danielle. When she saw Seth carrying

her expression paused for a

smiling.

seated in her wheelchair, also had

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

way she said that

here?” Seth

voice was as

storm.

clasped tightly, not saying a

her all alone

holidays, could we?”

felt a surge of anger rising in her chest, but she

best not to let her emotions flare out of

was my dad who applied for her discharge. If anyone

family. You stay

Danielle. “Patty is being polite, but

ashamed?”

more mortified after

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

barely able to contain her fury. “The

herself injured saving

never repay. What’s wrong with inviting

her every single day

“By that logic, any woman who

play the damsel in distress.

family’s dinners even

anger, and

is the Ellis family’s dear daughter?

a mother figure that you have

her?”

“Patty, don’t take your dissatisfaction out

who’s

“You…”

Seth’s deep voice

smiling, settled

she quietly

here to celebrate, not

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