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.

get all worked up, you know. Getting angry is

bedridden for life, Seth and I will be

Enter title…

at her coldly and then let out a mocking

If I really am disabled for

off.”d2

slightly as she looked at Danielle, who seemed

faint smile. “How shameless are you

if you wish for

allow it, and neither will Seth. Even blood relatives fed up

think you are in Seth’s

decades to live? How patient do

day out? Or

someone disabled?”

violently as she glared at Cicely. Each

to her

a second that you’re off the

even dream of running away. You were so

you up from your grave and lash your corpse

Maybe if you get better soon, you might

blame me for

teeth, Danielle eyed the neatly laid out

icy, detached voice rang out

wouldn’t starve myself just

willing to eat, that’s if

annoying.”

lift, it froze in

Cicely would win.

ruining my appetite. Please, leave

by. “Keep an

she eats or

“Understood.”

took a

at her again, turning towards the door

the door swung open

expression darkening as the man who

of Cicely brought a surge of intense hatred

from the restroom, rushed in, positioning himself

front of Cicely.

furrowed her brows as

he opened the door. She

feeling any

stiffened, his teeth clenched as he glared at Cicely,

mixed with rage.

Ray, don’t you think

who nearly took advantage of me that night when you were

score yet, and

castrated you myself.”

words hit

“Seth never told you

night?”

“Does what he say negate

raped me?”

smile, she added, “I’m aware of Mr. Ray’s

genuinely regret it. Let’s put our grievances aside

get your facts straight. It was your drunken folly

mess, not anyone else’s doing.

dependent. Let’s not make her situation

exchange, could hardly believe the

his expression flustered, “I’m here

know Danielle

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

I’ll

as they left the hospital room. “Ray

can’t hold him

yesterday, but I

bag in her

brought back the chaos

vivid and terrifying that even the mere thought of it

shudder.

“Miss?”

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

rich playboy, surrounded by a

suddenly proclaiming true feelings

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

his family on the brink, he’s willing

this charade for Danielle. It’s clear she means

accident was orchestrated by

frowned at

he’d nearly get her killed? That seemed a

*

room, Ray stood by Danielle’s bed.

guilt. “I’m sorry, I had no idea it

the mood to give Ray any

shoveled

indifference.

a dog-eat-dog world. Regardless of the tactics

said, not looking up from her plate.

now, and your family is on its last

there was at least a chance for a

blown it for good.”

tight his knuckles were white, and a

“He orchestrated the

Danielle. I’ve told you not to be fooled

My dad said the moment he entered

he had his sights

run by a guy who hasn’t

these things to make everyone relax their guard against

suddenly delivered a fatal blow. He played innocent but

I wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve never hidden

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

receiving

had pondered this question

afraid to delve into it. She didn’t want

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

breath. “I know you wouldn’t believe it, which is

with the

a rough road ahead. I came

to ask

her voice restrained and

for him, was it

or was it

finally turned to look at

with a motive, my only desire was

smile. “It’s different.

expect my father to be so obstinate. If you knew the

severe, would you

set her fork down and looked up at

are you hoping

lips together. “You

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

didn’t expect you to brush

I had died, what would be

“Whether true or not, that’s

to play the villain in front of me

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

since I can’t, I

this composed

trembled slightly. She was afraid of Ray

there was no telling what

to.

*

of the elevator on the ground

across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

imperceptibly when he saw

for a moment then

familiar, faint smile on her face.

hate hospitals. What are you doing

Came to check on

she glanced at him coolly. “I have

a

not long after Cicely arrived at

grasped what Seth was

here on your behalf to check

it might

gaze faltered for a

her neck, presenting only her profile to him,

the corners of her eyes and lips was

moods are volatile, and your

even leading to harm.”

up at him with a light smile. “I have

person could hurt me when I’m fully able and

expression darkened. “The sooner she recovers, the sooner

ties with her.”

hands tucked into the

why I braved the disgust and

No overt anger, just a serene

the clearer Seth

sarcasm and rebellion.

had lunch?” Seth reached out to pull her

learned just

his touch.

have the time to join

a meal with

with such blunt rejection, Seth’s complexion

you ever trusted me?” The question floated into Seth’s ears, simple

he looked up

didn’t leave room for an answer, as if the question itself had

in

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

and pondered for a moment, her

at

“Alright.”

through the gates of the

the sprawling manor, feeling an

pines stood tall but failed to bring any sense

vitality.

brows, and the already

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

was empty, with servants occasionally

seemed to be

over at the sound of her arrival, a look

you give us a heads

glanced upstairs, “Where’s

ago and was reading in the study.

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he

some buckwheat

her ascent up the stairs, turning to look at Brody

step, “And what else?”

hesitated, “There were a couple

deepened as she turned and headed

stern face, she ordered the servants to

buckwheat wraps remained, along with

a light salad of carrots and celery, the

of ham and cheese.

back of a nearby chair, she lifted

prepared for

to reply,

Brody said helplessly, “Sir has been preferring lighter meals these

asked for these dishes. Even if

folks’ meals are quite simple. When

says there’s no need

well enough not to doubt his words, but in

family’s dining table was always a feast of

she found Creighton slumped in

on his chest,

of sorrow hit Cicely, and her eyes

but one master. That grand dining table now

corner for his

over heels in

her father alone

herself deeply in her

gently covering him with a blanket before

out of the study.

Creighton woke from his nap and came

something with the servants, his face lit

why didn’t you tell

got secrets to hide before I

her. “You’re not fighting with Seth again,

there be so many quarrels?” Cicely laughed, linking

“He’s busy with work,

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

over for

He listens to you

to me.”

talk

the rest of the afternoon. She

playfully demanding

amused and exasperated.

Erik arrived, father and son squared off while she

in with

golden; don’t meddle in the

afternoon was lively and bustling,

entire Ellis family seemed to

be.

dinner, Creighton inquired about

too busy to make

“Are you

for us

Creighton relented.

dinner, Cicely still sent Seth a message.

coming home tonight.]

about to create a dramatic runaway scenario with

all, she couldn’t let Grandpa and Dad

anything amiss.

she didn’t wait

at the

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

your message imply for me

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

know.”

reason for a married couple to

message as an invitation for us to

had pulled her into his

living

couple’s closeness, smiled, “I’ve

hard these past few

“Not yet.”

whip up a few dishes. Cicely, take

The dishes were all

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

her father and Seth in the living

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

“You two

came out

the coffee table, bending down to pick

back to

Enter title…

to dine with him, and

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

estate isn’t

bottle, her expression

here for

crossed Seth’s brow as

set down

explain myself

understand very well. Now that you’ve explained it, it’s even clearer.”

“I said

wasting time over the same person

napkin, “So you’re telling me you’ve decided

here just on a

insist on a reason, I have some.

In fact, on my way back today,

my dad and changed

could use some

prove I’m not

her lips

the last part, coupled with her subtle expression,

answer had been placed on the question she had left

noon.

believe it? If not, she

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

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

own home,

sip from his

his easy acquiescence, but the

even if he disagreed today,

to understand why he mentioned

such an easy compromise.

dinner, Seth joined Cicely’s father and

their conversation would

matters.

app for

castle LEGO sets, and notebooks

liked doodling when

opened it to find Charlie,

stepping inside.

glanced at him, “How heartless, sending you out in such

the night no

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

discussing matters. You can sit and wait for

errand. Mr. Seth asked me

be on my way

up, turned around,

Charlie. Brody, seeing this, quickly

suitcase upstairs.

bidding

glass of milk. After finishing her milk, Cicely

upstairs.

talk about for so

had

found some clothes and went to the bathroom where the bath

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

temperature, she slid into the tub and let out a sigh of

a view of

It seemed they had

especially for her return.

of boredom, she had asked her father to install the fountain

glimpsing at them had

the bathtub, staring at that place for

down against the edge of the

over her eyes.

water, soothing

She drifted

felt a sudden chill.

above the water felt the coolness, and she instinctively slid

to remove the towel from her eyes, her hand was caught midair,

up to see the

side of the tub.

to be the first to drown

it was by the man who had appeared silently

warmth of the room had dissipated

feel cold.

blame.” Cicely tried to shake

and began to undress in a

frowned, “What are

missing a beat, dropping his clothes into

else does one do

grabbed the towel beside the tub to cover herself, and

out. Before she could leave, she was

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

to do?”

the woman in his

more radiant than usual. He

that was low

indignation deflated embarrassingly, “You should be

without drowning.”

softly. Compared to her quiet,

her current bold, even if somewhat

demeanor.

retort, he began to run his fingers through her wet hair.

your hair for

“No.”

warm spray of the shower

hadn’t waited for her consent before

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

but that this man had a hundred ways

anger before it even

inch, as the towel

away

in front of her,

modesty she could.

her hair

to rinse it

eyes closed, Cicely considered that her taste

there

fallen for

her hair, he nudged her toward the

took a quick shower

a cool expression, Cicely asked,

planning to

any reason I

to your apartment, it’s quite a trek from here

You insist on staying here. I

will.”

of anger

into a smile as he drew

to spending a whole night

better.”

can’t sleep by

leisurely over her face

contours of her body.

he reached

warm water from the shower

eyes closed to prevent water from flowing into them, Cicely’s mind

focused on his succinct and cryptic response,

insistent pressing

had already set the showerhead aside, his hand

his forehead against hers. “We should

voice tightened, “Let go. I can dry it

going out

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

he moved with a familiarity

bit her lip, afraid she’d scream out. She hit his

“This is the

told you it wasn’t convenient, but you seemed not to mind.

to keep it down in

was wrapped around his waist, and as the

vision blurred until she was on the

turning off the hairdryer and slipping her into pajamas,

She turned away from him, her soft

the other side of the bed, facing

thought to turn away, his long arm

the strength to resist, knowing he’d

too exhausted to

*

The next day.

was already gone. The

faded, with new ones added from last

protective—or so he seemed. Any

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

all too pleased.

up and slipping into her loose loungewear,

listless, she found

morning exercise and were already

Creighton shook his head with a mix

really should fix

by the servant, sipped half

the best part of a

bad for your health, and too

either. Breakfast is the most important meal. Why are

you

left Cicely

to the office. Why would I

office, duh! Perfect timing with your holiday. You

at the company instead of ending up clueless. What? Didn’t

frowned, her face showing clear reluctance. “No, he probably

why he didn’t

good at

he really didn’t

genuinely didn’t know, Creighton dropped the subject.

with your grandfather to

come?”

onto the couch, resting

of elegance

have lunch by yourself at

returned, and they were already leaving her to

name had come

as if leaving her alone in the hospital

a table was incredibly inappropriate and heartless.

visit the hospital the next

scoffed silently. Anyone who dared say the Ellis family was harsh

Danielle would have a

time for dinner.

headed upstairs first, while Cicely

her bedroom, where Seth was busy

desk.

went to the bathroom, and upon

behind her. After a quick shower,

into bed to play with

like Seth had finished his work. He stood up,

over, brushed her forehead

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

for

you be? It’s been

you up to?”

of teasing, “What makes you

rest tonight?”

mumbled, “Then what

there are plenty of things

gently, “Then hurry

being pushed away by her, Seth’s body pressed

penetrating with

gasping for air. She lifted her

his shoulders, letting out a soft whimper. It

on her, just barely.

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

off guard with their unintentional cuteness, and

you to death? I wouldn’t dream of it. But you

me just now, Mrs. Diaz,” he said with a playful tone,

Cicely’s

face just inches from hers. A

penalty for self-justification, then what

I consider how to punish

held the same amused expression, yet

me any way you see

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

that because I’m so

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

beautifully curved jawline, “So, ask yourself,

the heart to give me a severe punishment,

an eyebrow and ran her hand across his

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

eyes, Seth felt

smooth chin, “You like

moved from his face

with it, “But have you ever heard, love

someone at the start, the more they

into Seth’s warm and smiling eyes, but

her eyes and brows soft with flirtation, “Don’t

will. I wouldn’t choose to hate

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

smile. He let go

was already missing two buttons that Cicely had

unfastened the rest.

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

turned to leave and then paused, “If you’re not obedient, I’ll have to

you up my way.”

to find out what

Seth emerged from the shower, Cicely was propped

game. She glanced at him, then

game.

snatched the

something you need to

at the office

talking, he swiped and tapped

“I don’t know anything about business, what am I

do there?”

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

in the

I have

the good little girl? Do you think your dad asking you

you for

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

future, your only sure bet is the Ellis

the Ellis family forever. If one day, shareholders

and start eating away

won’t even know where to cry.

around you is

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

only when truly in your own

“What makes you insecure?

you want

her, his

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

leaves a

saying. But beyond these

expression didn’t improve, and

shadow in their depths replaced by a

be so quick to assume. In fact, instead

on why I

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

you can before sleep, and ask me about anything you

understand tomorrow.”

document app he had just downloaded for

text. “What

then got out of bed, lifting

and I need to reflect. Naturally, I can’t stay

mood.”

coat, and

wasn’t

a tantrum.

＊

his study for two hours. Approaching

looking worse than

had dimmed, leaving only a

Seeing the woman sleeping with the phone in her arms, his

reignited.

Heartless woman.

from her hand

she hadn’t closed.

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

sleeping face and

wonder Creighton was in a rush to find her

aside, he

cold as he pulled

the man’s arms and scent, shifted comfortably

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

wanted to wake her

fell silent

petty.

＊

petty; the next morning, he woke

a cup of strong coffee. Even for

to morning grumpiness, she was even

robbed of breath.

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

mind?!”

mischievous grin as he swung his legs out

off to the

Cicely yanked the comforter over

your face.” Seth’s voice

Cicely didn’t budge.

you really gonna make me

the comforter off

at him, but what strength could she muster just

pillow at

the pillow barely registered upon

so over this, I’m

the pillow, and placed it back on the bed, “I’m

I don’t see you up by the

me to wake you up for the

back to sleep.”

frustration. As Seth

a

covers aside and stomped off to

was busy squeezing toothpaste onto his brush.

reflection in the mirror.

of his eyebrows, he shifted aside to

her brush, and Seth, as if on

reflection. Seth nonchalantly placed the toothpaste

aside.

she started brushing. It was not like she

toothpaste.

smile of

breakfast, they headed to the Ellis

much of the document from last night

to know anything.

pages. So what am I supposed to

smiled and didn’t

understood why

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

immediate deployment.

documents are on the computer; you can keep reading

her face away,

seemed to anticipate this excuse,

silent. She felt like no matter what excuse

answer for it. Reluctantly, she moved

pile of folders.

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

will you be

to a C&P

leaving

in

focus on the reading; I’ll be

mouth to retort

at her

been darting around, a clear sign she was

she possibly stir up

after Seth left, Cicely did take

her pen, but within half an hour, the pen

her phone was

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

rummaged through the drawers, fiddled with the

on a black leather notebook she found

and

desk and

Seth returned before noon. Cicely sat there, the picture of a

student.

did you

bit challenging since it’s new to me, so

a whole morning and you’re proud of

stung.

that I’m even

approached his desk, noticing the black notebook she

he found her doodles—a passable

a confident,

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

nonchalance.

pursed his lips and took a deep breath, “Anything you

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

Cicely tidied the documents away. Seth waited

declared as if it justified

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

Come over here.”

prepared? No

clutched the files and

his long arm pulled her into

leaning back with a wary

his grip tightened around her waist, his voice deep and

taking

“What do you mean?”

the day, you’d

respectful. Now, you can’t

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

is?”

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

and it’s intentional, Mr.

admission reeked of impunity, but Seth had no

feel like harboring

that would mean cheating, Mr.

Seth was momentarily speechless.

feeling victorious, smiled, “What’s

it’s to

her away and leaned back in his chair, turning to face

his expression and voice

Cicely watched him—

man was annoyed

a local

no intention

“Aren’t you eating?”

out by the rhythmic

mood was as frosty as

entire office was suffused with the

a big deal’.

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

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

her way.

you can’t eat it, leave it. Nobody said you

huffed, “Then I

tonight.”

up at her

onto the couch and picked up the elegantly wrapped

have to sleep together every

wait until

was stoic, “How long

attitude with me?”

innocent, “Isn’t it you who’s been

sure you want to keep butting heads

silverware tightened

to watch

with me, and I’ll

Seth fell silent.

*

had been at the Ellis Corporation since

and had stayed

off, but under

department

tedious reports and progress reviews, the office atmosphere was tense

As the well-known heiress of the Ellis family,

father, she couldn’t afford to be

approached, Cicely found most of

the department leaders’ trembling, overly respectful demeanors

much

hadn’t commented on it.

downstairs for a bit. Mom’s shopping nearby, and

in a while.”

brow twitched, “I should probably

I’ve already

murmured an acknowledgment and moved to the door to put on

arrived yetTo claim Cicely wasn’t

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

they come. If Patty was in a

bit more. If not, best to steer clear.

that Patty wasn’t her biggest

naturally, Cicely wasn’t about

waiting by the door. She cozied up in the

around Seth’s.

them some tea

Enter title…

and returned after a

a sip

silence, Seth broke the

fascinating about my face?”d2

told if she didn’t

with him always

hadn’t even mentioned anything about

strand of her hair, her

overheard General

talking about this new mechanical equipment

the old

the know-how

Instead of bidding and choosing

over to Diaz International? Given the ties

Ellis family,

fish

the Ellis project. Diaz International

with the Ellis family’s

picks Diaz International, the rest

so many would kill for that kind

just chicken out when you see the

it just

with the Ellis family?”

interim head of the Ellis Corporation, I can say that

fitting partners than Diaz International. And

work with the Ellis family, are you suggesting I

Corporation to make things easier for Diaz

stance. “What’s wrong with that?

counts. Why sweat

for you,

mouth twitched into a half-smile. “Is there a

to take the

the point of running

swallow it up. That way, you wouldn’t

actually

it, the more

his eyes but

Cicely propped her chin in her hands and smiled at

we actually go through with that?

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

to me personally, and I’ll cut you

How

“What’s all this rigmarole for? Why the sudden

in Diaz International?”

twinkled. “Just occurred to me,

your mother, it’s

I’ve been thinking that I don’t really have an

that gives me an edge over you. But Diaz

might just be it.”

gaze was meaningful and unfathomable as

last bit of Diaz International. So what if I say

sofa, with a carefree smile

to

thin lips tightened, clearly displeased with

reaction, Cicely just smiled thinly.

International under the Ellis family banner the

to

that belonged to none

her mug, then switched on her charm

opposite her, her

wariness.

figured it wasn’t such a bad idea

too shabby, right? Especially since

need to keep things so

“The future is the

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

International.”

her eyes

to speak further. If Patty wasn’t bringing it

had already stood up, his

go.”

probably mindful of Seth’s expression. Patty pursed

if forcefully suppressing a multitude

evening, they had dinner at the Diaz residence, but Cicely

with Patty might be the real way to make

night was out of

Ellis residence, Seth

you

“Same as today.”

in

I’m there, I’ll disturb

car window, twirling

her slender finger.

a few seconds before slowly speaking, “Yeah,

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

you?”

shook her head, “No need,

Seth fell silent.

butler welcomed them respectfully. “Miss, we

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

them now, I can

said, “Well, bring them out,

packages. Cicely sat cross-legged in the living

waterproof mat and started to

knife.

items – mugs, thermos

them but also studied

times more focused

when she read documents.

to find Cicely amidst an

freshen up;

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

examined it—it had a notable heft, and engraved on it was

her name beneath. Beside her was a matching

The rest of the items were pairs, hers in dark

light.

you think

back this time did I realize there are no

and it feels

still engrossed in the small items, her

most natural thing in the

to

next morning, seeing the white

contentedly.

at the Ellis estate and setting the staff to work,

focus was still scattered, but after reviewing a couple

they were much the

department heads yesterday.

the paperwork aside, paced the office, and then there was

knock on the door.

parcels. “Ms. Cicely,

addressed to you.”

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

Seth’s chair, she resumed her task

returned to an office transformed. His desk

new pen holder, several stylographs, a

couple of notebooks.

the corner mirrored his,

a cushion on

bouquet of flowers had even appeared on

question the wisdom of leaving her

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

for lunch

much work

raised three fingers, then hesitantly added a fourth,

few keys on the computer, bringing up a

of

everything but work.

No surprise there.

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

she stated,

closed the video.

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

progress today, spent the

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

objects on the desk,

reward, I’ll take

of escaping the office for a meal was

*

Seth stayed at the Ellis

summoning staff for reports

stretched over several days, and even if Cicely wasn’t

she couldn’t help but be

time for the company’s annual

a hectic affair.

International, and C&P were arranged to hold

same day, at the same hotel,

towers, linked by sky bridges. The topfloor ballrooms were split between the Ellis Corporation and Diaz

the south, the other

Diaz International’s—a floor

with the Ellis Corporation.

a silver-gray, fitted

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

dressed as others, she still stood out

of her birth, Cicely seemed destined to

were simple in design, yet undeniably from the

side was distractingly handsome, a sight

onlookers to look away. Cicely had everything

the Diaz International gala to make the rounds,

and deliver the expected pleasantries, to clink glasses and

before whisking her away to the

gala was orchestrated by Seth’s people, but

the spotlight was

arrival at the Ellis

toasts and well-wishes, almost like

their guests, receiving blessings

seats, Cicely mused aloud, “Isn’t the C&P gala

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

are taking care of

hand, Cicely teased with a

a lot of celebrity beauties

her coolly, “And plenty of male

even curious to take

Seth retorted, “If your

have considered it.”

want to

one day I’ll bring them all to you for

personal viewing.”

about skipping the C&P

to keep a low profile there, and even more so in the

whole. C&P, after its grand slam start

was the envy of

cozy up to

a patient man, unwilling to waste time on those

ingratiate themselves with him.

was a magnet for journalists, both overt and

was deliberate, with

away. However, not long after, Charlie hurriedly arrived, lowering

Diaz, Ray got drunk at the C&P

commotion over at Diaz

darkened. As he

his wrist, “What’s

put, I’ll be back soon,” he said, squeezing her

before following Charlie out.

was out of sight, then

was slouched on the steps

of

sneer, using the steps for

to his feet

syllable with

each word with venom. “You’re impressive,

coldly, flashing

seen just how ruthless you can be.

who writes history, that I can’t

family never provoked you; we were just in your way.

we had, you seized

anticipated such drama on the eve of their holiday

the air, the implications clear to

Seth’s tactics, about how Ray’s

on a whim because Ray had

Seth’s fiancée, this had incensed him enough to retaliate

against Ray .

some speculated that it had been a premeditated strike. Now,

seemed to confirm the

still a shareholder in your

place immediately.” Seth

when Ray’s family had

from a

ten percent.

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

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

I have, and I can’t tarnish

my company, so tell me,

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

today?”

with icy detachment, “If you couldn’t even

makes you think you can

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

in his eyes, which

as if he might lunge

vengeful fury.

the table next

sharp shards scattering across the

pierced through the festive din like

heart to skip a beat. Instinctively,

Seth, her high heels a clumsy

remains of the bottle at

out a breathless shout.

she dashed forward, pulling Seth’s arm and embracing

spun half a circle to avoid

to Seth,

fell onto Seth’s hand, and

his arms seemed about to fall out

moment.

reverberated throughout the

Cicely to intervene, felt a surge of

blood on

arm stood out, and his face, usually

sword blade, seething with

glared at Ray.

through Cicely’s

unrestrained anger, she gripped

“Seth,” she managed to

tall.

as it landed on her pale, bloodless

a resounding slap, Cicely slapped him. Stunned, he looked at

Have

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

you?!”

lips quivered in pain, and though her

clear tremble.

seemed to stem from the physical

eyes made it clear to him—she was crying,

fear, anger,

gripped his heart as he surveyed her

clear cut on her right arm. He grasped

dark. “Where else are you

and tears fell from

panic and restlessness swirled within Seth. He growled

low voice,

to crumble under Seth’s growl,

and broke down silently,

down her face. “My… my ankle hurts,” she

in her last

high heels and, with a grimace, bent down to scoop her

his arms.

tackled to the ground by Charlie,

knee on his back,

been right beside Seth and was

cry had caused him a moment’s hesitation. In that

bottle had

had

Seth carried Cicely away, Ray, pinned down

at Seth’s retreating figure with

damn arrogant. One day, you’ll pay

done!”

didn’t falter in

*

of Cicely’s injuries, Erik and Creighton

frenzy.

and a two-centimeter laceration

shallow, but

she had already been treated, her wounds bandaged,

eyes were red and swollen

she greeted them with a tearful

“Dad.”

a phone call and returned to the room. Charlie had

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

their concern for

his concern, which he channeled

has never known a day of hardship

new year,

his fault.

listen and

shot her a glare. “Am I not allowed to speak my

Enter title…

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

the pain

himself

were

could he not see through her

Cicely, her hair somewhat

when she

him with

Totally unexpected.

shock and anger now took on a

process these swirling

the doctor, then

Cicely with red eyes and pursed lips,

could be, then she lifted her arms and wrapped

her knees, lifting

understanding brought a slight sense of peace

watching.

and Seth

the

never mentioned leaving the

gala, Seth stayed at

Cicely company.

– any time Cicely needed to move,

never leaving her side.

was impeccable in his

complaint-free actions were bittersweet

to the bed where

waiting.

the doctor’s

shift in pressure and

beside her, who

as tense

residence, any sitting with Creighton that lasted

turned to

in her room,

if it was just to

most of their

about the

family.

the deal which should

year to after

if Diaz International was

same as it had been initially with

didn’t dwell on this

on to other matters.

interested in company affairs, she found

able to look up and

the Ellis residence just before the new

been injured

at this time.

on previous

lavish dinner for her. She didn’t

dinner table, she brought up the topic

Cicely back to the Diaz family for the

Patty’s mood didn’t match the generosity

since they were legally married, spending

most appropriate

a moment, glanced at

somewhat absent-mindedly.

felt

home, the vastness of the Ellis

returned to spend a few days,

gatherings, would

*

New Yearr’s Eve, Seth

residence.

to pick up Danielle from the

and Creighton agreed that leaving Danielle alone in the hospital over

negotiating with

bring

However, the image of

home, staring at each other, feels sad

things up, serving

the thought of Danielle’s haughty, perpetually

feel that it might be

been bustling since yesterday, and though they

for the New Year’s Eve dinner,

a sumptuous feast knowing Miss Danielle would be

anyone at the hospital. And Cicely, arriving

encountered Danielle, who should have been picked up

face immediately

was chatting happily with Danielle. When

paused for a moment, but then

smiling.

wheelchair, also had a

A shadow crossed her face, but she

The way she said that made it sound

are you doing here?” Seth

voice was as flat as

storm.

clasped tightly, not saying a

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

holidays, could we?”

her chest, but

to let her emotions

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

been the Ellis family. You

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

ashamed?”

already embarrassed, turned even more

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

barely able to contain her fury. “The guest I invite is the

should be here. Danielle got herself injured saving

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

of her every single day

lips curled into a sneer. “By that logic,

play

Ellis family’s dinners even

with anger, and she whirled to glare

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

that you have to bring home

her?”

don’t take your

it you who’s making him

“You…”

Seth’s deep voice cut

light and smiling, settled on a glass on the

quietly awaited Seth’s

not to start

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