The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

Chapter 2031-2040

So, what do you want to do then?”

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

speak, but no words came out.

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

hospital room spotless again.

Charlie returned with a fresh lunch from a nearby deli.

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

“Eat up.”d2

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

Enter title…

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

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

use the restroom on your own.”

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

the fork.

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

“Have you eaten?”

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

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

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

Danielle didn’t dare to press him further.

*

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

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

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

Issac stared at her silently.

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

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

make sure she gets it.”

Issac was moved. “I’ll send someone.”

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

message popped up from Emiliana.

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

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

Cicely: [I’ll add him.]

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

I

ssac was still there when she looked up.

“Why haven’t you left?”

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

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

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

driver’s ID before letting Cicely leave.

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

accepted her friend request.

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

Cicely: [Have you had lunch yet?]

Santino: [Not yet.]

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

Santino did too.

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

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

mask and sunglasses hiding his well-known face.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

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

hope you’re not pressed for time.”

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

Cicely smiled as the dishes began to arrive.

“Thanks for bringing my car back.”

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

difficult.”

Cicely raised an eyebrow. “Fine by me.”

“Are you out on your own again today?”

The question felt ironic to Cicely.

“Is that strange?”

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

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

your age seems a bit lonely too soon.”

Lonely.

Cicely paused. The word felt foreign to her.

She had never considered it a description for herself.

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

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

annoying.”

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

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

“Considerate and understanding?”

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

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

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

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

you through more efficient work.

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

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

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

more you’ve won.”

Cicely’s gaze turned distant.

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

The more it hurts, the more she wins.

Savoring Santino’s words, Cicely smiled.

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

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

Cicely remained noncommittal.

After all, actors portray life in all its facets.

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

for a while.”

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

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

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

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

gratitude.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

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

Santino seemed quite pleased with the idea.

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

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

wedding photos.

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

There were two photos.

One was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

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

suggest such a clichéd stance.

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

might take in the future.

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

of its authenticity.

“Great, wrap it up for me.”

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

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

Actually, he was completely taken aback.

“Just two wedding photos?”

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

fitting.”

Santino nodded in understanding.

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

sunglasses, he was recognized.

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

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

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

Congratulations, you look stunning.”

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

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

you?”

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

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

he proposed with is the same brand you endorse.”

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

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

photo with her.

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

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

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

all the best.”

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

They both chuckled at the apparent misunderstanding.

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

Santino took them casually.

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

picture on social media?”

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

“Thank you.”

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

“Any plans now?” he asked.

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

ago.

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

and rejecting her lunch.

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

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

needs, including trips to the bathroom.

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

very noon.

Santino was right.

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

If not for her, then for someone else.

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

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

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

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

there.”

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

Issac dismissed the caregiver Seth had arranged for Danielle and replaced

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

even the unexpected ones, had been meticulously arranged.

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

the call and dialed Cicely’s number.

— Powered off.

His brow furrowed, and he then called the apartment.

Enter title…

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

yet.”d2

“Alright,” Seth replied coolly.

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

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

been dining out quite often lately.”

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

“Sure thing.”

*

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

past two years.

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

didn’t skimp on expenses.

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

lighting and the sound quality were top-notch.

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

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

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

interest.

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

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

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

Boring.

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

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

recognized her.

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

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

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

with the staff.

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

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

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

excruciating detail?”

“Not quite.”

Cicely sighed. “Sounds dull.”

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

“It better be the best meal ever.”

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

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

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

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

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

personified.

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

caught their attention.

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

responsible for Santino’s interview was curious about her.

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

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

opportunity that they were just friends.

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

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

up a frenzy.

Their plans did not include a love affair for Santino.

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

Cicely was after the interview.

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

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

was already dark outside.

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

seeing him, they erupted into excited screams.

Santino waved back with a smile.

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

anxious.

“Santino, who is she?”

“Is she your new assistant?”

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

chaos, explaining that they were just friends.

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

moment.

Some fans even started crying on the spot.

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

detached amusement.

“What a spectacle,” she remarked.

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

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

find them ridiculous?”

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

suffocating.”

Cicely narrowed her eyes, “How so?”

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

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

happy.”

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

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

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

later.”

Cicely understood; such people did exist.

“That does sound suffocating.”

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

interested in the topic at all.

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

they’ll be returned to you shortly.”

Cicely did as instructed.

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

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

Cicely was genuinely intrigued.

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

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

dish she had seen in a movie.

*

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

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

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

she glanced towards the door.

“Sir, you’re back.”

“Yes. Where is she?”

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

She had thought the couple would come home together.

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

phone and continued to call Cicely.

Voicemail.

It had been voicemail all afternoon.

He turned and dialed Charlie’s number instead.

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

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

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

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

Hollywood-themed diner.”

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

speechless.

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

online. You’ll see.”

Online.

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

overwhelming.

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

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

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

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

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

who knew her could recognize her without a doubt.

Seth’s eyes were cold and terrifying.

Carly shivered from where she stood.

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

turning to walk into the living room.

“Carly, you can head home.”

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

instructions.

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

“I’ll take care of it.”

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

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

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

still simmering on the stove.

*

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

frequently on his watch.

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

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

uncomfortable it will be for you.”

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

Santino fell silent.

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

He was trending.

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

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

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

Santino didn’t make much of it.

After dinner, Santino handed her a scarf.

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

recognized.”

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

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

When they stepped out, Santino shielded Cicely behind him.

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

Who was she?

Was Santino in love?

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

The assistant tried to explain, to no avail.

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

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

displeasure was clear.

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

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

to know who.”

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

persistent journalists.

Santino pulled Cicely away.

*

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

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

pulling up to the apartment building.

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

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

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

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

man opposite her.

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

building.

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

around his neck.

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

tightened as he turned away from the window.

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

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

with his back to her.

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

coat, then bending down to change her shoes.

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

with a detached gaze.

Cicely glanced at him and gathered her statically charged hair.

“Did you come back early today?”

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

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

toward the bedroom while tying it up.

“You can wash your hands outside too.”

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

lingered on him for even a second.

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

within him, his voice tense and cold.

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

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

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

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

toward the bedroom.

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

bedroom entrance.

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

“What are you doing?”

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

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

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

“Drinking again?”

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

I’m tired and want to rest early.”

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

face in her neck.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seth had never been treated like this before.

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

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

her onto the bed.

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

to the mattress.

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

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

breath a chilling mix of anger and frost.

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

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

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

you’re expecting from me?

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

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

Her lips twisted into a defiant smirk.

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

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

into some heartless jerk?”

Enter title…

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

She had actually considered all of this.

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

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

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

Danielle go?”

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

and dripping with sarcasm.

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

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

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

Seth remained silent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

my face and laugh at my failure.

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

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

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

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

mockery.

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

Whether Cicely liked him was always clear.

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

o why did he lose control tonight?

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

her face.

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

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

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

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

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

such things so easily.

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

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

they’re worthless.”

Her expression briefly turned chillingly cold and dismissive before she pushed

him away and left for the bathroom without a word.

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

*

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

hair, clearly post-shower as well.

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

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

changed by Seth.

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

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

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

with a calm expression.

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

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

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

window.

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

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

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

“Right.”

“Good. I trust you.”

What other choice did she have?

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

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

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

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

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

Seth paused, then pulled her into his arms.

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

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

her through and through.

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

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

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

arms still tight around her.

Would she leave him?

How could she?

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

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

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

way to mend or fill it.

*

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

point to check in at the apartment in person.

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

and had woken up early.

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

the door for Charlie.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Charlie caught the keys deftly and immediately went downstairs.

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

room.

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

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

was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

hang them up.”

“Sure thing.”

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

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

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

remembering when.

Her tone suggested she was in a good mood.

“A bit to the right.”

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

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

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

bullets.

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

steady.

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

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

ought to have built some rapport.”

Charlie nearly leapt out the nearby window.

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

“Time to eat.”

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

left. There, that’s perfect.”

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

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

“Time for breakfast.”

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

After breakfast, Seth and Cicely left the apartment together.

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

to the office.

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

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

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

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

the affair that the matter finally settled.

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

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

had deliberately quashed the story.

Cicely didn’t dwell on it.

Once it was over, it was over.

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

caused.

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

it was best to let it go.

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

her.

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

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

evenings.

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

his work.

His efficiency visibly increased.

Yet, it was clear he was getting tired.

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

find reasons to be understanding and to feel for them.

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

accommodate them.

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

want to see him exhausted.

Thankfully, it was only for a week.

*

Cicely spent a day resting at home during the holiday.

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

trouble at the hospital again.]

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

leading to another emotional breakdown.

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

was all an act to garner attention.

It had worked for her before.

Danielle’s room was in disarray.

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

deliberate mess.

Cicely visited around noon, bringing lunch from home.

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

shifting to a feigned calm as she faced Cicely coldly.

“Here to gloat over me again?”

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

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

around?”

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

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

someday.”

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

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

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

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

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

your grand design.”

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

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

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

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

remember, Danielle, you still owe me.”

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

and arranged the lunch before Danielle.

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

smirk forming on her lips as she turned to Cicely.

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

me with kindness?”

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

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

use that term to describe me?”

Danielle’s face turned sour with malice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

anger and agitation.

worked up, you know. Getting angry is bad for your

and I will be

Enter title…

and then let out a mocking

for

off.”d2

looked

a faint smile. “How shameless are you to say

wish

will Seth. Even blood relatives fed up after years

you are in

decades to live? How patient do you

day in and day out? Or rather, do you think Seth could

someone disabled?”

as she glared at

to her most

a second that you’re

of running away. You were

dig you up from your grave and

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

don’t blame me for

her teeth, Danielle eyed the neatly laid

icy, detached voice

were you, I wouldn’t starve myself just to

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

annoying.”

froze in

Cicely would win.

appetite. Please,

looked up at the nurse standing by. “Keep an eye on

she eats

“Understood.”

took a

didn’t look at her again, turning

steps, the

expression darkening as the man who

was Ray. The sight of Cicely brought a

who had just returned from the restroom,

front of Cicely.

Issac, furrowed her brows as

She reached out

feeling any

teeth clenched as he glared at

mixed with rage.

don’t you

the one who nearly took advantage of me

that score yet, and here you are

castrated you myself.”

words hit

never told

night?”

lowered slightly, “Does what he

raped me?”

her eyes with a faint smile, she added, “I’m aware of Mr. Ray’s

and genuinely regret it. Let’s put our grievances aside for now.

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

else’s doing.

and dependent. Let’s not make her

listening to the exchange, could hardly believe

Danielle, his expression flustered, “I’m here

course, I know

with a smile, “Then I must have misunderstood.

up, I’ll take

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

so we can’t hold him accountable. He’s

I didn’t let

bag in her

brought back the chaos of

and terrifying that even the

shudder.

“Miss?”

“It seems

had been skeptical. A rich playboy, surrounded by a constant stream

proclaiming true feelings

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

With his family on the brink, he’s willing to

Danielle. It’s clear

was orchestrated by his family

frowned at

nearly get her killed? That seemed

*

room, Ray stood by

had no idea

mood to give Ray any

her fork clumsily, she shoveled food into her

indifference.

world. Regardless of

up from her plate.

to him now, and your family is on its

there was at least a chance for a comeback, but

blown it for good.”

hands were clenched so tight his knuckles were white, and a

“He orchestrated the downfall of

not to

can imagine. My dad

had his sights set on

fledgling talent agency, run by a guy who hasn’t graduated

relied on these things to make

delivered a fatal blow. He played innocent but was

wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve never

you, and if Cicely hadn’t shown up, who do

at the receiving end

She had

to delve into it. She didn’t want to

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

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

I’ve checked with

ahead. I came here today

ask you

her voice

front of that car for him, was it truly

him, or was it

finally turned to look at Ray. “Does

a motive, my only desire was to win him

“It’s

expect my father to be

you still

a long silence, Danielle set her fork

answer are

his lips together. “You

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

“I didn’t expect you to brush me off

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

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

the villain in front of me to push me away. At

stop caring for you, it’s like denying

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

had never seen Ray this composed yet

trembled slightly. She was afraid of Ray in this

left to lose, there was no telling

to.

*

the elevator on the ground

across the

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

brow furrowed imperceptibly when

grip on her purse slackened for a moment

with a familiar, faint smile on her face.

was heavy. “You hate hospitals. What

had another episode. Came

admitted. After a brief silence, she glanced at him coolly.

in bullying a cripple, so

after Cicely arrived at the

the side, instantly grasped what Seth was worried about. “Mr.

on your behalf to check on Miss Danielle, considering

it might give you a

gaze faltered

adjusted the scarf around her neck, presenting

at the corners of her eyes and lips was

your presence might

even leading to harm.”

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

person could hurt me when

she recovers, the sooner I can

ties with her.”

Cicely replied, hands tucked into the pockets of her

why I braved the disgust

anger, just

the more she displayed it, the clearer Seth could sense

sarcasm and rebellion.

you had lunch?” Seth reached out

just a week

Cicely stepped aside, avoiding his touch. “Whether I

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

sharing a meal

such blunt

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

looked up to find

for an answer, as if the question itself had

in

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

pondered for a moment,

at the Ellis

“Alright.”

gates of the Ellis family estate, Cicely

the sprawling manor, feeling an

pines stood tall but failed

vitality.

her brows, and the already somewhat

the car and walked towards the villa.

empty, with servants occasionally

seemed to be cautious. “Miss, you’re

of her arrival,

give us a heads up,

glanced upstairs, “Where’s

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

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he have for

some buckwheat

turning to look at Brody

step, “And what else?”

hesitated, “There were a couple

as she turned and headed straight for the kitchen.

face, she ordered the servants to bring

buckwheat

being a light salad of carrots and

of ham and cheese.

of a nearby chair, she lifted her gaze to the servants,

you prepared for

servants were too frightened to reply, their

Brody said helplessly, “Sir has been preferring

asked for these dishes. Even if we prepared

folks’ meals are

there’s no

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

dining table was always a

she found Creighton slumped in a

resting on his chest, his head

of sorrow hit Cicely, and her eyes began

now had but one master. That

a humble corner for his simple

early, head over heels in love, insisting on

her father alone in the

blamed herself deeply in

wake Creighton, gently covering him with a blanket

out of the study.

his nap

something with the servants, his face lit up with an unmistakable

you tell me you were

secrets to hide

“You’re not

there be so many quarrels?” Cicely laughed,

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

break, missing all the

over for

to ask him. He listens to you more than he

to me.”

I’ll talk to

glued to Creighton for the rest of the afternoon. She

teaching her chess, playfully demanding take-backs that left Creighton

amused and exasperated.

father and son squared off while she placed bets

in with unsolicited

bristled, “Silence is golden;

was lively and bustling, and

entire Ellis family seemed to have returned to how it

be.

Creighton

busy to make it

you two

us to be alright,

Creighton relented.

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

coming home tonight.]

wasn’t about to create a dramatic runaway scenario with Seth,

home. After all, she

anything amiss.

she didn’t wait up

eight, Seth showed up at the Ellis estate’s doorstep.

moved to assist Seth

imply for me to

voice neutral, “No, it was just to let

know.”

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

message as an invitation

could respond, he had pulled her into his embrace and they

living

closeness, smiled, “I’ve heard you’ve

past few

“Not yet.”

ahead, I’ll have the staff whip up a few dishes. Cicely, take care

dishes were all tailored

him for dinner, but as

the inexplicable stares of her father

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

in, “You two aren’t fighting, are

came out to grab my water

made her way over to the coffee

back to the dining

Enter title…

her return to dine with him,

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

the Ellis family estate isn’t as cozy as our

water bottle, her expression nonchalant. “There’s

for the

Seth’s brow

set down his

I not explain

you’ve explained it, it’s even clearer.”

for a sip, “I said I’m not fighting with you. There’s

the same person or

a napkin, “So

back here just on

reason, I have some. I’m on holiday,

on time. In fact, on my way

but then I saw my dad and changed my

time for me, but he could use some company. Are

I’m not fighting

was impassive, her lips curled in an almost

hearing the last part, coupled with her subtle expression, it seemed

been placed on the question she had

noon.

it? If not, she

want to stay, stay. It’s just a

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

own home, nothing’s

a sip from

surprised by his easy acquiescence, but the feeling was

he disagreed today, it

came to understand why he mentioned inconvenience

such an easy compromise.

Cicely’s father and grandfather in

her what their conversation would be about—nothing but

matters.

browsed her shopping app for little home decor

LEGO sets, and notebooks

she liked doodling when

front door was knocked, the servant opened

inside. “Ms. Cicely,

heartless, sending you out in such cold

middle of the night

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

discussing matters. You can sit and wait for

have an errand. Mr. Seth asked me to bring some

I’ll be on my

looked up, turned around, and noticed

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

suitcase upstairs.

didn’t linger, bidding farewell and

glass of milk. After finishing her milk,

upstairs.

talk about for so long without any sign

servant had refilled their

went to the bathroom where the bath had

It had been a while since she’d indulged in a good

into the tub and let out a

the bathroom window was a view of the garden and a

rotating ground lights. It seemed they had

especially for her return.

of boredom, she had asked

glimpsing at them had become a

the bathtub, staring at that place for

edge of the tub,

over her eyes.

oil dripped into the water, soothing her fatigue. With the

move again. She drifted in and out of sleep until

felt a sudden chill.

the coolness, and she instinctively slid

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

towel fell away, and she looked up to see the man frowning at her from

side of the tub.

to be the first to drown in a

was startled, but it was by the man who

warmth of the room had dissipated when

feel cold.

to blame.” Cicely tried

her and began to undress

“What

beat, dropping his clothes

do in

paused, grabbed the towel beside the

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

towel to her chest and glared

to do?”

in his arms, her face flushed from

than usual. He

low and enticing. “Share a shower with

“You

without drowning.”

her

he preferred her current

demeanor.

her thorny retort, he began to run his fingers through her

hair for

“No.”

warm spray of the shower interrupted Cicely’s

her consent before

rose in Cicely, but Seth’s hand covered her

that Cicely lacked principles, but that this man

anger before it even took

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

away by

in front

modesty she could.

her hair with patience,

close into his chest to rinse it

closed, Cicely considered that her taste

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

for this

her hair, he nudged her toward the wall to

a quick shower

cool expression, Cicely

you planning to

there any reason

quite a trek

on staying here. I can’t exactly

will.”

of anger

drew closer to

to spending a whole night alone.

better.”

can’t sleep by

I?” Seth’s gaze drifted leisurely over

contours of her body.

eyes darkened imperceptibly, and he reached out to pull

water from the shower cascading over her

eyes closed to prevent water from

his succinct and cryptic response, which

something insistent pressing against her and came

the showerhead aside, his

forehead against hers. “We should get

tightened, “Let go. I can dry

we’re not going out just

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

moved with a familiarity that

her lip, afraid she’d scream out.

than pain. “This

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

keep it down

was wrapped around his waist, and as

her, her vision blurred until she was

hairdryer and slipping

her soft hair spreading across the

the bed, facing her. As she

away, his long arm scooped her into

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

too exhausted to continue

*

The next day.

already gone. The patchy marks on her

ones

considerate, gentle, and protective—or so he seemed. Any

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

all too pleased.

and slipping into her

she found Creighton and

returned from their morning exercise and

Cicely, Creighton shook his head with a mix

really should fix that habit of

servant, sipped half of it, and slumped

“Sleeping in is the best

for your

is the most important meal. Why are you

you leave

left Cicely

Why would I

your

of ending up clueless.

her face showing clear reluctance. “No, he probably

he

quite good at passing the

he really didn’t

didn’t know, Creighton dropped the subject.

the hospital with your grandfather to see Danielle. You

come?”

Cicely curled her legs onto the couch, resting

of elegance

lunch

had just returned, and they were already

night before, Danielle’s name had come up several times at the

the hospital

incredibly inappropriate and heartless. After

they were set to visit the

say the Ellis family was harsh

have a problem

in time for

while Cicely sat

up to her bedroom, where

desk.

went to the

her. After a quick shower, she emerged to

bed to play

seemed like Seth had finished

the bed, walked over, brushed her forehead

a gentle peck on the

for me,

up lazily, “How horny can you be? It’s been days on

you up to?”

hint of teasing, “What makes you think I won’t

rest tonight?”

mumbled, “Then what

there are plenty of

gently, “Then hurry up

pushed away by her, Seth’s body

with

air. She lifted her

soft whimper. It was only then that

on her, just barely.

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

with their unintentional

“Kiss you to death? I wouldn’t

Diaz,” he said with a playful tone,

of sweet punishment.” “Misunderstood?” Cicely’s drowsy eyes suddenly sharpened

from hers. A gentle smile

misunderstanding warrants a penalty for self-justification,

you misunderstand me? Shouldn’t I consider

expression, yet a chill seemed to

me any way you see

head, calmly and seriously meeting

I’m

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

jawline, “So, ask yourself, do

heart to give me

raised an eyebrow and ran her hand across his

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

the emotion in her eyes, Seth felt a subtle stir in his heart,

gently caressing her smooth chin,

hand moved from his

have you ever heard, love and

someone at the start,

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

soft with

I doubt it will. I wouldn’t choose to

to the nerve, his dark eyes

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

missing two buttons that Cicely had undone;

unfastened the rest.

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

“If you’re

you up my way.”

find out what his method of waking her

emerged from the shower, Cicely

game. She glanced at him, then refocused

game.

bed and snatched the phone from her hands.

there something you need

at

swiped and tapped on her phone

know anything about business,

do there?”

wouldn’t need to tag along with me to the

thing in the

I have to

girl? Do you think your dad asking you to learn

you for

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

the future, your only sure

family forever. If one day, shareholders

of a weak moment and start eating away

know where to cry. Don’t be

around you is

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

when truly in your own hands, is

watched him quietly, “What makes you insecure? You

want to leave me one

Turning to her, his gazes

voice chilled further. “It sounds like you’re quite convinced you’ve fallen for

leaves a

saying. But beyond these two

expression didn’t improve, and he

the shadow in their depths

be so quick to assume. In fact, instead of

why I

back, “I’ve downloaded some files

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

understand tomorrow.”

app he had just

with a blur of text. “What will

at her, then got out of bed,

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

mood.”

up, grab a coat, and walk out. Her face looked

well; it wasn’t about

a tantrum.

＊

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

his face looking worse

had dimmed, leaving only a nightlight by

with the

reignited.

Heartless woman.

slid into bed, taking the phone from her hand and

she hadn’t closed.

one he’d opened for her before leaving.

sleeping face and

was in a rush to find her

aside, he watched the

he pulled her

man’s arms and scent, shifted comfortably

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

her

fell silent again,

petty.

＊

the next morning, he woke Cicely with a kiss that

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

to morning grumpiness, she was

robbed of breath.

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

mind?!”

as he swung his legs out of bed,

off

yanked the comforter over

Seth’s voice carried

Cicely didn’t budge.

make me do this the hard

Cicely flung the comforter off

at him, but what strength could she muster just out of

pillow

close by, and the pillow barely registered

over this, I’m

and placed it back on the bed, “I’m

you up by the

me to wake you

back to sleep.”

teeth in frustration. As Seth turned away, the corners of his

a sly

she threw the covers aside and stomped off

busy squeezing toothpaste onto his brush. He

reflection in the mirror.

of his eyebrows, he

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

reflection. Seth nonchalantly placed the toothpaste

aside.

back on her task, she started brushing. It was not like she needed his

simple as toothpaste. The frothy white

slight smile of

they headed to

of the document from last

to know anything.

what am I supposed to do at the office,

just smiled and didn’t

office, Cicely understood why he hadn’t

a new desk and

immediate deployment.

computer; you can keep

face away, “Computers

anticipate this excuse, “There are printed copies

no matter what excuse she came up

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

pile of folders.

don’t understand, and

will you

to a

“You’re leaving me here

there wolves in

reading; I’ll

retort

her before leaving

eyes had been darting around, a clear sign she was up to no good.

she possibly stir up in the

Seth left, Cicely did take the documents seriously

marks with her pen, but within half an hour, the

her phone was

left the office, returning after another half-hour to

drawers, fiddled with

pen and doodled on a black leather notebook she

played with her phone and then, noticing the time, went back

and the

before noon. Cicely sat there, the picture

student.

you get through?” he

new to me, so I’m

whole morning and you’re proud

stung.

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

the black notebook

found her doodles—a

in a confident, flamboyant

slightly, but

nonchalance.

took a

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

Cicely tidied the documents away. Seth

as if

bridge of his nose and sank into his chair.

Come over here.”

No

grudgingly clutched the files and approached him. Before

into an

said, leaning back with a wary

tightened around her waist, his voice

one taking liberties

“What do you mean?”

day, you’d concoct all kinds

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

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

is?”

“Respectful? That’s because I harbored

it’s intentional,

impunity, but Seth had

feel like harboring intentions

that would mean

Seth was momentarily speechless.

victorious, smiled,

me, it’s to

back in his

his expression and

Cicely watched him—

was annoyed

by Charlie from a

have no intention of joining

“Aren’t you eating?”

by

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

with the unmistakable vibe

a big deal’.

by myself?” she asked, her brow furrowed as

food, while he didn’t even bother to

her way.

eat it, leave it. Nobody

huffed, “Then I guess

tonight.”

at her with an

onto the couch and picked up

we have to sleep

until you’re

“How long are you planning to

attitude with me?”

the innocent, “Isn’t it you

you sure you want to keep butting heads with

on her silverware tightened before

continued to watch

with me, and I’ll sleep

Seth fell silent.

*

Ellis Corporation since the afternoon, holding

had stayed in

but under Seth’s watchful eye,

various department heads

reviews, the office atmosphere was

of the Ellis family, even if it was just

father, she couldn’t afford to be

the workday approached, Cicely found most

leaders’ trembling, overly respectful demeanors

hadn’t made much progress with the paperwork,

hadn’t commented on it.

bit. Mom’s

in a while.”

should probably let

I’ve

and moved to the door to put

hadn’t arrived yetTo claim Cicely wasn’t the

it came down to it, Cicely knew she

come. If Patty was in a good mood,

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

Patty wasn’t

naturally, Cicely wasn’t

door. She cozied up in the lounge

around Seth’s.

quickly offered them some tea and

Enter title…

stepped aside to take a call and returned

sip of warm

of silence, Seth broke the ice. “Spit

fascinating about my face?”d2

always been told if she didn’t

ask him. But with him always buzzing around, she never did.

he hadn’t even mentioned anything about

hair, her palm warming against the

overheard General Manager from

He was talking about this new mechanical

knock the socks off the old models. We could corner the market

family has the

point. Instead of bidding and choosing another manufacturer, why

over to Diaz International? Given

Ellis family, why

big fish like the Harper family, and the

all eyeing the Ellis project. Diaz International doesn’t

deal with the Ellis

family picks Diaz International, the

many would kill for that kind

it, or do you just chicken out when you see the

family, or the Watsons? Or is it just that you

with the Ellis family?”

the interim head of the Ellis Corporation, I can say

Watsons are all more fitting partners than Diaz International.

work with the Ellis family, are you suggesting

Ellis Corporation to make things easier for Diaz

wasn’t surprised by his stance.

what counts. Why sweat the small

of pride for you, I’ll bang the

mouth twitched into a half-smile.

take the big deals, too proud for

running Diaz International?

swallow it up. That way, you wouldn’t have to worry about any flak

up. Hmm, that’s actually a pretty solid

she thought about it, the more

narrowed his eyes

his silence, Cicely propped her chin in

with that?

convert it into shares for you in the Ellis family?

personally, and I’ll cut you in

shares. How

looked at her coolly. “What’s all

in Diaz International?”

to me, if there’s anything on this

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

been thinking that I don’t

an edge over you. But

might just be it.”

meaningful and unfathomable

last bit of Diaz International.

the sofa, with a carefree smile on her face. “Then

time to let

tightened, clearly displeased

his reaction, Cicely just smiled thinly.

International under the Ellis

ever do to tick you off?” The

tone that

glanced at her mug, then switched on her charm as she

her, her face a stormy mix of

wariness.

figured it wasn’t

ain’t too shabby, right? Especially since we will be

need to keep things so

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

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

International.”

eyes carrying

speak further. If Patty wasn’t bringing

since Seth had already stood up, his expression far from rosy.

go.”

mindful of Seth’s expression. Patty

if forcefully suppressing a multitude

the Diaz residence, but

the

the night was out of

drive back to the Ellis residence, Seth took the

“Where are you off

“Same as today.”

me alone in the

there, I’ll disturb your

car window, twirling

her slender finger.

was silent for a few seconds before

into a half-smile, “Should I prepare some

you?”

shook her head, “No need, I’ve got my

Seth fell silent.

them respectfully. “Miss,

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

to open them now, I can bring them

shoes and said, “Well, bring them out,

indeed many packages. Cicely

on a waterproof mat and started to slice open the parcels

knife.

small items – mugs, thermos cups,

unpacked them but also studied them. Her demeanor

manuals was many times more focused and

when she read documents.

he came down to find Cicely

“Go freshen up; we’re up

handed him a

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

Beside her was a matching black one,

rest of the items were

light.

you think of

back this time did I

it

the small

most natural thing in the world. Seth

her to

seeing the white

contentedly.

at the Ellis estate and

was still scattered, but after reviewing

were much the same as what she’d

department heads yesterday.

the paperwork aside, paced the

knock on the door.

Shane, arms laden with parcels. “Ms.

addressed to you.”

till now, perked up at the sight, “Put

in Seth’s chair, she resumed

office transformed. His desk now sported

holder, several stylographs, a fresh

couple of notebooks.

corner mirrored his, albeit with

a cushion on

had even appeared on the coffee

of leaving her alone in the

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

“What’s for

“How much work

fingers, then hesitantly added a fourth,

the computer, bringing up a video

of Cicely’s boredom—and her interest

everything but work.

No surprise there.

video was silent, and Cicely, unaware of its contents,

she stated, approaching him. Seth

closed the video.

full of text.

spent the whole

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

the new objects on the desk, and he

reward, I’ll take you out for

of escaping the office for a meal was music to Cicely’s

*

stayed at

staff for reports

stretched over several days, and even

about company affairs, she couldn’t

time for

a hectic affair.

and C&P were

at the same hotel, for

linked by sky bridges. The topfloor ballrooms

on the south, the

just below Diaz International’s—a floor apart, with no

with the Ellis Corporation.

a silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress

pair of silver high-heeled shoes, and although

as others, she still stood out

birth, Cicely seemed destined to make

were simple in

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

for onlookers to look away. Cicely had everything people

her to the Diaz International

and deliver the expected pleasantries, to clink glasses

whisking her away to the Ellis

Ellis Corporation gala was orchestrated by Seth’s

and father present, the spotlight

Seth and Cicely’s arrival at the Ellis Corporation gala, they were met

of toasts and well-wishes, almost like a

guests, receiving blessings and drinks

mused aloud, “Isn’t the C&P

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

taking care

hand, Cicely teased with

lot of

“And plenty

curious to take a

retorted, “If your intentions

have considered it.”

to admire the pretty

I’ll bring

personal viewing.”

serious about skipping the C&P gala.

low profile there, and even more so

its grand slam start

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

to Seth

was not a patient man, unwilling to

ingratiate themselves with him.

a magnet for journalists, both overt and

C&P event was deliberate,

after, Charlie

Seth.”Mr. Diaz, Ray got drunk at the C&P

commotion over at

darkened. As he stood

his wrist, “What’s

back soon,”

before following Charlie out.

out of sight, then rose and

International’s gala, Ray was slouched on

of hard liquor. His face flushed

greeted Seth with a sneer, using the steps for support

his feet and

slurred, emphasizing each syllable with

venom. “You’re impressive,

coldly, flashing a thumbs-up

seen just how ruthless

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

you; we were just in

the we had, you seized my

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

in the air, the implications

Seth’s tactics, about how Ray’s family

whim because Ray had once made an indecent

this had incensed him enough to

against Ray .

it had been

seemed to confirm

you are still a shareholder in your family business, my

leave this place

when Ray’s family had

waking from a hospital

ten percent.

I know

your Diaz International event. I can’t

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

company, so

and ruined Diaz International, let you taste the

today?”

with icy detachment,

think you

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

replaced the drunken stupor in his eyes,

looked as if he might lunge at Seth in a

vengeful fury.

whiskey onto the table next to Seth with such

it shattered, sending sharp shards scattering across the polished

the breaking glass pierced through the festive din like

Cicely’s heart to skip a beat.

heels a clumsy

the bottle at Seth, Cicely’s face

color, and she let out a breathless shout. Disregarding

she dashed forward, pulling Seth’s arm

half a circle

to Seth, her

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

about to fall out of his embrace.

moment.

collective gasp reverberated throughout the

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

on his

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

sword blade, seething with a murderous aura

glared at Ray.

shot through Cicely’s arm and

unrestrained anger, she gripped his clothes

trembling with pain. “Seth,” she managed

tall.

softened as it landed on her

a resounding slap, Cicely slapped him.

not thinking straight. Have you

provoking him will do you now?

you?!”

in pain, and though her voice carried anger, it also

clear tremble.

look seemed to stem from the physical reaction to her pain. But

eyes made it clear

fear, anger,

gripped his heart as he surveyed

cut on her right arm. He

else are

bit her lip, and tears

panic and restlessness swirled within

voice, “Talk

last ounce of self-control seemed to crumble under

converged and broke

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

twisted it in her last desperate lunge to save

high heels and, with a grimace, bent down to

his arms.

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

with a knee on his

right beside Seth and

Cicely’s panicked cry had caused him a moment’s

had

he acted swiftly, Cicely had

Ray, pinned down by

at Seth’s retreating figure

don’t be so damn arrogant. One day, you’ll pay

done!”

falter in his

*

Erik and Creighton rushed to the hospital

frenzy.

sprained ankle and

shallow, but not

treated, her

Cicely’s eyes were red and swollen from

her Erik and Creighton, she greeted

“Dad.”

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

for the time being. Seth gave a

their concern for

concern, which he channeled into

hardship in her life, and just a few days

the new year,

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

listen and followed

shot her a glare. “Am I not

Enter title…

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

pain stop,

cutting himself off mid-sentence. She had

all his words were stuffed

could he

watched Cicely, her hair somewhat disheveled but still

moment at the gala when she

him

Totally unexpected.

anger now took on a new definition upon

process these swirling emotions,

intently to the doctor, then stepped

he saw Cicely with red eyes and pursed lips, looking

her arms and wrapped them

her knees, lifting

brought a slight sense of peace

watching.

and Seth back

the Ellis residence was the best

never mentioned leaving the

after the gala, Seth stayed at the Ellis residence

Cicely company.

up – any time Cicely needed to move,

never leaving her side.

Seth was impeccable in

silent, complaint-free actions were bittersweet for

to the bed where the

waiting.

bandaging process, despite the doctor’s

in pressure and Cicely would wince.

heavy silence from the man beside her, who seemed

as tense as

any sitting with

turned

her room, insisted Seth

it was just to

most of

them talk about the mechanical manufacturing issues of

family.

deal which should

to

had asked Seth if Diaz International was

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

mirrored Cicely’s. However, Creighton didn’t

on to other matters.

wasn’t interested in company affairs,

able to

arrived at the Ellis residence just before the new year.

daughter-in-law who had been injured protecting Seth, Patty

at this time. But Patty’s complexion

than on

prepared a lavish

she brought up the topic of

to the Diaz family for

as Patty’s mood didn’t match

since they were legally married,

residence was the most appropriate and normal thing

a moment, glanced at the

somewhat absent-mindedly.

felt

home, the vastness

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

for festive gatherings, would

*

of the New Yearr’s Eve, Seth took

residence.

them to pick

agreed that leaving Danielle alone

negotiating with the

to bring

image of two old people spending

staring at each other, feels

of Danielle might liven things up, serving as company

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

that it might be better off without

been bustling since yesterday, and

being home for the New Year’s Eve dinner,

feast knowing

find anyone at the hospital. And

residence, encountered Danielle, who should have been picked up

face immediately

Danielle. When she saw Seth carrying

her expression paused for a

smiling.

wheelchair, also had a momentary freeze

her face, but she brushed it aside. “Seth,

said that made it sound like

Seth asked, ignoring her

Cicely onto the couch. His voice was

storm.

hands clasped tightly, not saying a

leave her all alone

holidays, could we?”

surge of anger rising in her chest, but

not to let her emotions flare out of

her discharge. If anyone was

family. You stay here for

on Danielle. “Patty is being polite, but

ashamed?”

even more mortified after

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

face was barely able to contain her fury.

should be here. Danielle got herself injured saving Seth’s life.

never repay. What’s wrong with inviting her over

care of her every single

lips curled into a sneer. “By that logic, any woman

stage an accident and play the damsel in distress.

the Ellis family’s dinners

turned pale with anger, and she whirled to glare at

is the Ellis

so desperate for a mother figure that you have to bring home a

her?”

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

it you who’s

“You…”

Seth’s deep voice cut through

which had been light and smiling, settled on a glass on the

as she quietly awaited

to celebrate, not to start a scene and make

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