The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

Chapter 2031-2040

So, what do you want to do then?”

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

speak, but no words came out.

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

hospital room spotless again.

Charlie returned with a fresh lunch from a nearby deli.

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

“Eat up.”d2

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

Enter title…

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

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

use the restroom on your own.”

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

the fork.

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

“Have you eaten?”

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

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

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

Danielle didn’t dare to press him further.

*

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

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

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

Issac stared at her silently.

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

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

make sure she gets it.”

Issac was moved. “I’ll send someone.”

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

message popped up from Emiliana.

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

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

Cicely: [I’ll add him.]

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

I

ssac was still there when she looked up.

“Why haven’t you left?”

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

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

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

driver’s ID before letting Cicely leave.

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

accepted her friend request.

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

Cicely: [Have you had lunch yet?]

Santino: [Not yet.]

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

Santino did too.

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

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

mask and sunglasses hiding his well-known face.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

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

hope you’re not pressed for time.”

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

Cicely smiled as the dishes began to arrive.

“Thanks for bringing my car back.”

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

difficult.”

Cicely raised an eyebrow. “Fine by me.”

“Are you out on your own again today?”

The question felt ironic to Cicely.

“Is that strange?”

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

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

your age seems a bit lonely too soon.”

Lonely.

Cicely paused. The word felt foreign to her.

She had never considered it a description for herself.

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

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

annoying.”

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

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

“Considerate and understanding?”

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

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

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

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

you through more efficient work.

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

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

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

more you’ve won.”

Cicely’s gaze turned distant.

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

The more it hurts, the more she wins.

Savoring Santino’s words, Cicely smiled.

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

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

Cicely remained noncommittal.

After all, actors portray life in all its facets.

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

for a while.”

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

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

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

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

gratitude.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

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

Santino seemed quite pleased with the idea.

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

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

wedding photos.

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

There were two photos.

One was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

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

suggest such a clichéd stance.

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

might take in the future.

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

of its authenticity.

“Great, wrap it up for me.”

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

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

Actually, he was completely taken aback.

“Just two wedding photos?”

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

fitting.”

Santino nodded in understanding.

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

sunglasses, he was recognized.

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

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

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

Congratulations, you look stunning.”

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

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

you?”

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

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

he proposed with is the same brand you endorse.”

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

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

photo with her.

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

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

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

all the best.”

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

They both chuckled at the apparent misunderstanding.

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

Santino took them casually.

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

picture on social media?”

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

“Thank you.”

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

“Any plans now?” he asked.

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

ago.

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

and rejecting her lunch.

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

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

needs, including trips to the bathroom.

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

very noon.

Santino was right.

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

If not for her, then for someone else.

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

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

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

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

there.”

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

Issac dismissed the caregiver Seth had arranged for Danielle and replaced

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

even the unexpected ones, had been meticulously arranged.

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

the call and dialed Cicely’s number.

— Powered off.

His brow furrowed, and he then called the apartment.

Enter title…

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

yet.”d2

“Alright,” Seth replied coolly.

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

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

been dining out quite often lately.”

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

“Sure thing.”

*

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

past two years.

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

didn’t skimp on expenses.

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

lighting and the sound quality were top-notch.

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

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

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

interest.

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

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

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

Boring.

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

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

recognized her.

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

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

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

with the staff.

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

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

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

excruciating detail?”

“Not quite.”

Cicely sighed. “Sounds dull.”

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

“It better be the best meal ever.”

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

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

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

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

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

personified.

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

caught their attention.

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

responsible for Santino’s interview was curious about her.

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

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

opportunity that they were just friends.

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

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

up a frenzy.

Their plans did not include a love affair for Santino.

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

Cicely was after the interview.

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

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

was already dark outside.

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

seeing him, they erupted into excited screams.

Santino waved back with a smile.

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

anxious.

“Santino, who is she?”

“Is she your new assistant?”

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

chaos, explaining that they were just friends.

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

moment.

Some fans even started crying on the spot.

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

detached amusement.

“What a spectacle,” she remarked.

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

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

find them ridiculous?”

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

suffocating.”

Cicely narrowed her eyes, “How so?”

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

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

happy.”

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

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

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

later.”

Cicely understood; such people did exist.

“That does sound suffocating.”

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

interested in the topic at all.

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

they’ll be returned to you shortly.”

Cicely did as instructed.

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

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

Cicely was genuinely intrigued.

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

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

dish she had seen in a movie.

*

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

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

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

she glanced towards the door.

“Sir, you’re back.”

“Yes. Where is she?”

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

She had thought the couple would come home together.

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

phone and continued to call Cicely.

Voicemail.

It had been voicemail all afternoon.

He turned and dialed Charlie’s number instead.

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

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

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

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

Hollywood-themed diner.”

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

speechless.

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

online. You’ll see.”

Online.

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

overwhelming.

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

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

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

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

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

who knew her could recognize her without a doubt.

Seth’s eyes were cold and terrifying.

Carly shivered from where she stood.

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

turning to walk into the living room.

“Carly, you can head home.”

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

instructions.

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

“I’ll take care of it.”

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

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

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

still simmering on the stove.

*

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

frequently on his watch.

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

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

uncomfortable it will be for you.”

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

Santino fell silent.

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

He was trending.

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

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

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

Santino didn’t make much of it.

After dinner, Santino handed her a scarf.

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

recognized.”

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

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

When they stepped out, Santino shielded Cicely behind him.

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

Who was she?

Was Santino in love?

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

The assistant tried to explain, to no avail.

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

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

displeasure was clear.

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

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

to know who.”

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

persistent journalists.

Santino pulled Cicely away.

*

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

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

pulling up to the apartment building.

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

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

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

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

man opposite her.

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

building.

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

around his neck.

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

tightened as he turned away from the window.

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

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

with his back to her.

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

coat, then bending down to change her shoes.

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

with a detached gaze.

Cicely glanced at him and gathered her statically charged hair.

“Did you come back early today?”

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

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

toward the bedroom while tying it up.

“You can wash your hands outside too.”

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

lingered on him for even a second.

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

within him, his voice tense and cold.

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

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

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

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

toward the bedroom.

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

bedroom entrance.

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

“What are you doing?”

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

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

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

“Drinking again?”

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

I’m tired and want to rest early.”

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

face in her neck.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seth had never been treated like this before.

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

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

her onto the bed.

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

to the mattress.

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

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

breath a chilling mix of anger and frost.

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

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

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

you’re expecting from me?

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

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

Her lips twisted into a defiant smirk.

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

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

into some heartless jerk?”

Enter title…

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

She had actually considered all of this.

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

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

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

Danielle go?”

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

and dripping with sarcasm.

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

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

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

Seth remained silent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

my face and laugh at my failure.

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

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

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

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

mockery.

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

Whether Cicely liked him was always clear.

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

o why did he lose control tonight?

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

her face.

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

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

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

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

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

such things so easily.

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

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

they’re worthless.”

Her expression briefly turned chillingly cold and dismissive before she pushed

him away and left for the bathroom without a word.

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

*

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

hair, clearly post-shower as well.

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

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

changed by Seth.

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

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

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

with a calm expression.

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

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

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

window.

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

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

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

“Right.”

“Good. I trust you.”

What other choice did she have?

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

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

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

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

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

Seth paused, then pulled her into his arms.

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

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

her through and through.

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

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

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

arms still tight around her.

Would she leave him?

How could she?

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

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

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

way to mend or fill it.

*

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

point to check in at the apartment in person.

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

and had woken up early.

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

the door for Charlie.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Charlie caught the keys deftly and immediately went downstairs.

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

room.

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

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

was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

hang them up.”

“Sure thing.”

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

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

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

remembering when.

Her tone suggested she was in a good mood.

“A bit to the right.”

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

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

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

bullets.

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

steady.

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

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

ought to have built some rapport.”

Charlie nearly leapt out the nearby window.

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

“Time to eat.”

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

left. There, that’s perfect.”

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

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

“Time for breakfast.”

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

After breakfast, Seth and Cicely left the apartment together.

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

to the office.

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

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

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

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

the affair that the matter finally settled.

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

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

had deliberately quashed the story.

Cicely didn’t dwell on it.

Once it was over, it was over.

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

caused.

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

it was best to let it go.

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

her.

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

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

evenings.

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

his work.

His efficiency visibly increased.

Yet, it was clear he was getting tired.

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

find reasons to be understanding and to feel for them.

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

accommodate them.

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

want to see him exhausted.

Thankfully, it was only for a week.

*

Cicely spent a day resting at home during the holiday.

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

trouble at the hospital again.]

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

leading to another emotional breakdown.

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

was all an act to garner attention.

It had worked for her before.

Danielle’s room was in disarray.

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

deliberate mess.

Cicely visited around noon, bringing lunch from home.

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

shifting to a feigned calm as she faced Cicely coldly.

“Here to gloat over me again?”

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

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

around?”

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

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

someday.”

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

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

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

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

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

your grand design.”

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

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

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

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

remember, Danielle, you still owe me.”

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

and arranged the lunch before Danielle.

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

smirk forming on her lips as she turned to Cicely.

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

me with kindness?”

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

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

use that term to describe me?”

Danielle’s face turned sour with malice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

anger and agitation.

up, you know. Getting angry is

life, Seth and I will be

Enter title…

glared at her coldly and then let out a mocking laugh.

I really am disabled for life, you’ll

off.”d2

eyes flickered slightly as she looked at

a faint smile. “How shameless are you to

for you, even if you wish

neither will Seth. Even blood relatives fed up after years

do you think you are in Seth’s heart? You’ve got,

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

in and day out? Or rather, do you think

someone disabled?”

she glared at Cicely. Each word

to her most

second that you’re off the hook

of running away. You were so proud, weren’t you?

will dig you up from

soon, you might be able to

don’t blame me for bullying

Danielle eyed the neatly laid out

detached voice rang out

I wouldn’t starve myself just to

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

annoying.”

as her arm began to lift, it froze in place.

Cicely would win.

appetite. Please, leave

nurse standing by. “Keep an eye on

eats or

“Understood.”

took a

again, turning

could take two steps, the door swung open

darkening as the man who entered

brought a surge of intense hatred to

just returned from the restroom, rushed

front of Cicely.

behind Issac, furrowed her brows as she recalled

when he opened the door. She reached out and pushed Issac

Ray, feeling any

teeth clenched as

mixed with rage.

you think you’re

advantage of me

that score yet, and here you

castrated you myself.”

hit

Cicely,” Ray stammered, “Seth never

night?”

“Does what he say

raped me?”

faint smile, she added, “I’m aware

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

facts straight. It was your drunken folly that night

doing. Ms. Danielle

not make her

exchange, could

his expression flustered, “I’m here to visit,

Of course, I know Danielle is

nodded with a smile, “Then I must have

up, I’ll

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

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

I didn’t let him

clenched the bag in her hands until her

back the chaos

the fear, so vivid and terrifying that even the mere thought of it

shudder.

“Miss?”

memories, “It seems

A rich playboy, surrounded by a

feelings for one seemed

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

“Not perhaps. With his family on the brink,

clear she means a lot

by his family for

at the

he’d nearly get her killed? That

*

stood by Danielle’s bed. His

had no idea

the mood to give Ray any more attention

her fork clumsily, she shoveled food

indifference.

world. Regardless of the tactics used,

said, not looking up from her

jugular? Nothing’s happening to him now, and your

was at least a chance for a

blown it for good.”

were clenched so tight his knuckles were white, and a

the downfall

not to be fooled by his act. His

you can imagine. My dad said the moment he

his sights

run by a guy who hasn’t graduated from

things to make

suddenly delivered a fatal blow. He played innocent

That night, I wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve

Cicely hadn’t shown up, who

the receiving end of

color. She had pondered this question before, but

into it. She didn’t want to confront

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

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

with the doctors about your condition,

a rough road ahead. I came here

ask

look up, her voice restrained and

stepped in front of that car for him, was it

to save him, or was it just a ploy to achieve some

and finally turned to look

with a motive, my only desire was to win

“It’s different. The accident was

to be so obstinate. If you knew

would you still have

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

answer are you hoping

his lips

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

expect you to brush

brushing you off. If I had died,

“Whether true or not,

play the villain in front of me to push

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

I would, but since I can’t, I

Ray this composed yet so

the blanket trembled slightly. She was afraid

there was no telling what kind of madness

to.

*

elevator on the ground floor, only to

standing across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

imperceptibly when he saw

for a moment then tightened. She

a familiar, faint smile on

“You hate hospitals. What

Came to check on her

she glanced at him coolly.

in bullying a cripple, so don’t

not long after Cicely arrived

instantly grasped what Seth was

on your behalf to check on Miss Danielle,

it might

gaze faltered for a

adjusted the scarf around her neck, presenting only her profile

smile at the corners of her

and your presence might exacerbate

even leading to harm.”

light smile. “I have

could hurt me when I’m

“The sooner she recovers, the sooner I can

ties with her.”

tucked into the pockets of her

braved the disgust

overt anger, just a serene

displayed it, the clearer Seth could sense

sarcasm and rebellion.

out to

just a

his touch.

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

meal with

such blunt rejection, Seth’s complexion

question floated into Seth’s

brief pause, he looked up to

for an answer,

in her

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

pondered for a moment, her

visit Dad at

“Alright.”

through the gates

window at the sprawling manor,

stood tall but failed to bring

vitality.

her brows, and the already

got out of the car and walked towards the

occasionally moving about in silence.

seemed to be cautious. “Miss, you’re

her arrival, a look of

you give us a

upstairs, “Where’s

ago and was reading in the study.

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he

made some

up the stairs, turning

step, “And what else?”

were a couple of

frown deepened as she turned and

ordered the servants to bring out what Creighton had

the brownish buckwheat wraps

a light salad of carrots and celery,

of ham and cheese.

the back of a nearby chair, she lifted her

for my father’s

frightened to

helplessly, “Sir has been preferring

these dishes. Even if

them. Elderly folks’ meals

sir says there’s no need

to doubt his words,

dining table was

found Creighton slumped in

resting on his chest, his

sorrow hit Cicely, and her eyes

one master. That grand dining table now

humble corner

heels in love,

her father alone

blamed herself deeply

Creighton, gently covering him

out of the study.

from his nap and

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

didn’t you tell me you were

got secrets to hide

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

many quarrels?” Cicely laughed, linking arms

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

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

for dinner

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

to me.”

I’ll talk

Creighton for the rest of the

playfully demanding take-backs that

amused and exasperated.

Erik arrived, father and son squared off while she placed

occasionally chiming in with

bristled, “Silence is golden; don’t meddle in the

lively and bustling, and even the

family seemed to have returned to

be.

Creighton inquired

to make it back. Creighton frowned, giving her

“Are you

for us to be alright,

Creighton relented.

message. [I’m at the

coming home tonight.]

about to create a dramatic runaway scenario with Seth, spending

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

anything amiss.

reply, and she didn’t

at the Ellis

moved to assist Seth

message imply for

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

know.”

unavoidable, there’s no reason for a married couple to sleep

message as an invitation for us to stay

could respond, he had pulled her into

the living room.

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

few days, have you

“Not yet.”

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

dishes were all tailored

dinner, but

inexplicable stares of her

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

in, “You two aren’t fighting,

a deep breath, “Just came out

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

to

Enter title…

have anticipated her return to dine with him, and only

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

isn’t as cozy as our

bottle, her expression nonchalant. “There’s no fight.

staying here for the

crossed Seth’s brow as he methodically

down

I not explain myself

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

“I said I’m not

over the

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

back here just

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

on time. In fact, on my way back

saw my dad and changed my

he could use some company. Are these reasons

I’m not

was impassive, her lips curled in

last part, coupled with

an answer had been placed on the question she had left lingering

noon.

believe it? If not, she

amusement. “If you want to stay, stay.

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

own home,

took a sip from his water glass. “As you

by his easy acquiescence, but the feeling was

if he disagreed

to understand why

such an easy compromise.

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

what their conversation would

matters.

app for little home decor

notebooks with pens.

but she liked

servant opened it to find Charlie, shrouded in

inside. “Ms. Cicely,

“How heartless, sending you

of the night

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

upstairs discussing matters. You can sit and wait for

have an errand. Mr. Seth

be on my

around, and noticed a

to Charlie. Brody, seeing this, quickly directed the

suitcase upstairs.

didn’t linger, bidding farewell

of milk. After finishing her

upstairs.

possibly have to talk about for so long without any

The servant had

to the bathroom where the bath

It had been a while since she’d

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

bathroom window was a view of the garden and a

by rotating ground lights. It seemed they had been turned

especially for her return.

the past, out of boredom, she had asked

at them had become a habit during her

bathtub, staring at that place for a

against the edge of the tub,

over her eyes.

water, soothing her fatigue. With

eyes, she didn’t move again. She drifted

felt a sudden chill.

felt the coolness, and she instinctively slid

eyes, her hand was caught midair, and

up to see the man frowning at her from

side of the tub.

the first to drown in a

was startled, but it was by the man who had appeared

room had

feel cold.

did, guess who’d be to blame.” Cicely tried to

stood next to her and began to undress

frowned, “What

beat, dropping his clothes into

do in a

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

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

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

to do?”

in his arms, her face flushed

radiant than usual.

lips with a voice that was low and enticing. “Share a shower

indignation deflated embarrassingly, “You should be

without drowning.”

to her quiet, gentle demeanor, always

preferred her current bold, even

demeanor.

thorny retort, he began to run his fingers through

hair for

“No.”

warm spray of the shower

before turning on the

but Seth’s hand covered

but that this

anger before

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

away by

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

modesty she could.

hair with patience, massaging

close into his chest to rinse it clean

head lowered and eyes closed, Cicely considered that her

merit. After all, there were more

fallen for this

to her hair, he nudged her

a quick

with a cool expression,

planning

there any reason I

a

here. I can’t

will.”

of anger

into a smile as he drew closer to

nothing compared to spending a whole

better.”

can’t sleep by

should I?” Seth’s gaze drifted leisurely over her face and

contours of her body.

eyes darkened imperceptibly, and he reached

the shower cascading over

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

focused on his succinct and cryptic response, which left her

something insistent pressing against her and

set the showerhead aside,

should get out and

go. I can

we’re not going out just

Seth’s lips closed over hers abruptly.

with a familiarity that made

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

pain. “This is the Ellis

wasn’t convenient, but you seemed not

keep it down in a

wrapped around his waist,

vision blurred until she was on

slipping her into pajamas, Seth placed

away from him, her soft hair

side of the

thought to turn away, his long arm scooped

knowing he’d only persist if she

was too exhausted to continue the

*

The next day.

was already

faded, with new ones added

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

Yet now, with

all too pleased.

freshening up and slipping into her loose loungewear,

groggy and listless, she found

returned from their morning exercise and were already two chess

Creighton shook his head

should fix that

by the servant, sipped

is the best part of a

your health,

most important meal.

didn’t you leave

irritation left Cicely

to the office. Why

Perfect timing with your holiday. You

of ending up clueless. What?

showing clear reluctance. “No,

why he

at passing

really didn’t tell

genuinely didn’t know, Creighton dropped the subject.

to the hospital with your grandfather to see Danielle.

come?”

the couch, resting her elbow

of

have lunch

just returned, and they were already leaving her to

come up

her alone in the hospital while the rest of them sat

inappropriate and

they were set to visit the hospital the next

scoffed silently. Anyone who dared say the

would have

for dinner. His

while Cicely sat with

room before going up to her bedroom, where Seth

desk.

word, she went to the

shower, she emerged to

climbed into bed to

like Seth had finished his work. He

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

the lips. “I’m going to

Wait for me,

“How horny can you be? It’s been days

you up to?”

brow quirked with a hint of teasing, “What makes you think I won’t

rest tonight?”

mumbled, “Then what am I

Diaz, there are plenty of

Cicely pushed him gently, “Then hurry up

being pushed away by her, Seth’s body pressed down, kisses

penetrating with unrestrained

found herself gasping for air. She lifted her hands

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

on her, just barely.

me to death?” she managed

guard with their

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

just now, Mrs. Diaz,” he

Cicely’s drowsy eyes suddenly sharpened as she

hers. A gentle smile tinged her eyes,

a penalty for self-justification,

I consider how to

same amused expression, yet a

me any way you see

head, calmly and seriously

pretty confident, thinking that because I’m so

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

beautifully curved jawline,

the heart to give me a severe punishment,

raised an eyebrow and ran her hand across his

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

her eyes, Seth felt a subtle stir in

chin,

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

have you ever heard,

the start, the

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

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

I doubt it will. I

to the nerve, his

faint smile. He let go

already missing two buttons that

unfastened the rest.

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

paused, “If you’re not obedient, I’ll have

you up my way.”

no desire to find out what his method of waking her might

from the shower, Cicely was propped up

at

game.

bed and snatched the

strongly, “Is there something you need to tell

join me at the office

he swiped and

anything about business, what am

do there?”

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

in the

have to

girl? Do you think your dad asking you

picking on you for

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

it’s your life now or in the future, your

dad won’t manage the Ellis family forever. If one day, shareholders

of a weak moment and start eating away

know where to cry. Don’t

around you is

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

is mine, isn’t it yours

only when truly in your

quietly, “What makes you insecure? You think

want to leave me one day

Turning to her,

chilled further. “It sounds like you’re quite convinced

who leaves a

saying. But beyond these two reasons, is there

didn’t improve, and

shifted, the shadow in their

quick to assume. In fact, instead

be reflecting on why I harbor

phone back, “I’ve downloaded some

can before sleep, and ask me about anything

understand tomorrow.”

app he had

a blur of text. “What

then got out of bed, lifting

I can’t stay by your

mood.”

grab a coat,

understood all too well; it wasn’t about reflection. The

a tantrum.

＊

for two hours. Approaching eleven

looking

bedroom, the lights had dimmed,

woman sleeping with the phone

reignited.

Heartless woman.

slid into bed, taking the phone from

she hadn’t closed.

he’d opened for her before leaving. He then looked at

face and

wonder Creighton was in a rush to find her a reliable

aside, he watched

face cold as he pulled her into his

the man’s arms and scent, shifted

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

wanted to wake her up, maybe

she fell silent again, and any further pursuit would

petty.

＊

next morning, he woke Cicely with a kiss

a cup of strong coffee. Even

to morning grumpiness, she was even more

robbed of breath.

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

mind?!”

as he swung his legs out of

shine, off to

way! I am not going.” Cicely yanked the comforter over

Seth’s voice carried a

Cicely didn’t budge.

really gonna make me

Cicely flung the comforter off with a huff, sat

what strength could she

a pillow at

close by, and the pillow barely

over this, I’m

the pillow, and placed it

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

me to wake you

back to sleep.”

As Seth turned

a sly

covers aside and stomped off to the

onto his brush. He watched her

reflection in the mirror.

a subtle raise of his eyebrows, he

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

their reflection. Seth nonchalantly placed the

aside.

started brushing. It

simple as toothpaste. The frothy

slight smile of her

breakfast, they headed to the

of the document from last night did you

to know anything.

So what am I supposed to

just smiled and

understood why he hadn’t

new desk and

immediate deployment.

documents are on the computer; you can keep

her face away, “Computers

excuse, “There are

She felt like no matter

she

pile of folders.

you don’t understand, and we can

you

a C&P

“You’re leaving

there wolves in

the reading; I’ll be back by

to retort

at her before leaving

been darting around, a clear sign she was

possibly stir

left, Cicely did take the documents seriously for

plenty of marks with her pen, but within half an

her

left the office, returning after another half-hour to

She rummaged through the drawers,

and doodled on a black leather notebook she

phone and then, noticing the time,

desk and the

Seth returned before noon. Cicely

student.

much did you get through?”

to me, so I’m on the

files in a whole morning and you’re proud of that?”

stung.

the fact that I’m even sitting

his desk, noticing the black notebook she had

he found her doodles—a passable cartoon portrait, and

a

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

nonchalance.

and took a deep breath, “Anything

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

tidied the documents away. Seth waited

she declared as if

bridge of his nose and sank into

Come over here.”

No

clutched the files and approached him.

pulled her into an embrace. “What

an office,” Cicely said, leaning back with a

tightened around her waist, his voice

one taking liberties here,

“What do you mean?”

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

tutor you. Sweet and respectful. Now,

half-hearted attitude. If that’s not taking liberties,

is?”

“Respectful? That’s because I harbored

and it’s intentional,

but Seth had no

like harboring intentions towards

our current relationship, that would mean cheating,

Seth was momentarily speechless.

feeling victorious, smiled, “What’s for

me, it’s

away and leaned back in his chair, turning

his expression and voice

Cicely watched him—

was annoyed

a local

seemed to have no intention

“Aren’t you eating?”

response was drowned out by the rhythmic clacking of the

flat “Not hungry.” His mood was

suffused with the unmistakable vibe of

a big deal’.

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

table laden with food, while

her way.

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

and huffed, “Then I guess

tonight.”

her with an

couch and picked up the elegantly wrapped

coolly, “Nobody said we have to sleep together every night. If you

wait until you’re

long are you

attitude with me?”

played the innocent, “Isn’t it you

want to keep butting heads

on her silverware

to watch

and I’ll sleep with

Seth fell silent.

*

at the Ellis Corporation since the afternoon,

stayed in

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

with him summoning various department heads

progress reviews, the office atmosphere was

the well-known heiress of the Ellis family, even if it was just

for her father, she couldn’t

the workday approached, Cicely

leaders’ trembling, overly respectful demeanors

hadn’t made much progress with

hadn’t commented on it.

downstairs for a bit. Mom’s shopping nearby,

in a while.”

“I should probably let

I’ve

to the door

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

it, Cicely knew she had to

come. If Patty

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

wasn’t her biggest

chill outside was biting, and naturally, Cicely wasn’t about to freeze

the door. She cozied up in

around Seth’s.

offered them some tea and

Enter title…

aside to take a call and

Cicely. He took a sip

Seth broke the ice.

fascinating about my face?”d2

always been told

him. But with him always buzzing

he hadn’t even

of her hair, her

said nonchalantly, “I overheard

about this new

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

has the know-how and the development rights.

bidding and choosing another manufacturer, why

hand the deal over to Diaz International? Given

the Ellis family, why

was cold. “The big fish like the

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

with the Ellis family’s

family picks Diaz International, the rest can just sit

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

not up for it, or do you just chicken out when you

it just that you flat-out don’t want to

with the Ellis family?”

head of the Ellis Corporation,

fitting partners than Diaz International.

wanting to work with the Ellis family, are you suggesting I use my position

make things easier

stance. “What’s wrong

counts. Why sweat the small

for you,

twitched into a half-smile. “Is there a

furrowed her brows. “Too scared to take the

running Diaz International?

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

that’s actually a pretty solid

more she thought about it, the more

narrowed his eyes

propped her chin

with

in the Ellis

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

shares. How about

all this

in Diaz International?”

me, if

matters to you besides your mother, it’s probably

know, I’ve been thinking that

gives me an edge over you.

might just be it.”

meaningful and unfathomable as he watched

bit of Diaz International. So what if

a

time to let

thin lips tightened, clearly displeased with

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

International under the Ellis family banner the best

to tick you

that belonged to none

switched on her

standing opposite her, her

wariness.

I figured it wasn’t such a

too shabby, right? Especially since we will

to keep

is the

chew. And a heads-up, don’t even

International.”

eyes carrying a

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

stood up, his expression far from rosy.

go.”

glanced at Cicely, probably mindful of

forcefully suppressing a multitude

had dinner at the

dining with Patty might be the real way to make her happy.

night was

the Ellis residence, Seth

you

“Same as today.”

alone in

I’ll disturb

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

her slender finger.

few seconds

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

you?”

her head, “No

Seth fell silent.

welcomed them respectfully. “Miss, we received

they’ve been temporarily stored in the

them now, I can bring them

said, “Well, bring them out,

packages. Cicely

to slice open the parcels

knife.

items – mugs, thermos cups, small decorations in

only unpacked them but also studied them. Her demeanor

times more focused

when she read documents.

to find Cicely amidst

“Go freshen up; we’re up

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

heft, and

name beneath. Beside her was a matching black one,

portrait and name. The rest of the items were pairs,

light.

made you think of buying all

coming back this time did I realize there are no traces

it

engrossed in the small

thing in the world. Seth didn’t say much

urged her to

next morning, seeing the white tumbler in the

contentedly.

her at the Ellis estate and setting the staff

Cicely’s focus was still scattered,

were much the same as what she’d heard

department heads yesterday.

the paperwork aside, paced

knock on the door.

parcels.

addressed to you.”

perked up at the sight, “Put them on

in Seth’s chair, she resumed

office transformed.

holder, several stylographs, a fresh mouse pad,

couple of notebooks.

the corner mirrored his, albeit with

with a cushion on

had even appeared on

wisdom of leaving

she’d done nothing out of the ordinary, asked

for lunch

“How much work did you get

then hesitantly added

on the computer,

every bit of

everything but work.

No surprise there.

was silent, and Cicely, unaware of its contents,

hungry,” she stated, approaching him. Seth

closed the video.

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

spent the

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

the new objects on the desk, and he nodded,

I’ll take you

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

*

at the Ellis

summoning staff for reports and

and even if Cicely wasn’t eager

company affairs, she couldn’t

everything settled, it was time for

a hectic affair.

and

the same day, at the same

sky bridges. The

the south, the other north, distinctly

below Diaz International’s—a floor apart,

with the Ellis Corporation.

a silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress with the

pair of silver high-heeled shoes, and although

still stood out as the most

of her birth, Cicely seemed destined

Her clothes were simple in design, yet undeniably from the top

her side was distractingly handsome, a sight

to look away. Cicely

to the Diaz International gala to

and deliver the expected pleasantries, to clink glasses and

away to

gala was orchestrated by Seth’s people, but

present, the

Cicely’s arrival at the Ellis Corporation

toasts and well-wishes, almost like a bride and

receiving

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

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

are taking care of it,” Seth

Cicely teased

are a lot of celebrity

coolly, “And

even curious to

Seth retorted, “If your intentions weren’t so

have considered it.”

to admire the pretty

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

personal viewing.”

the C&P gala.

low profile there, and even more so

its grand slam start

was the envy of many.

cozy up to

man, unwilling to

ingratiate themselves with him.

magnet for journalists,

from the C&P event was deliberate,

However, not long after, Charlie hurriedly

Ray got drunk at the C&P gala and

commotion over at Diaz

his demeanor darkened. As he stood

his wrist,

back soon,” he said, squeezing her

before following Charlie out.

out of sight, then rose and

slouched on

nursing a nearly finished bottle of hard liquor. His face

a sneer, using the

his feet

emphasizing each syllable with a bitterness that seemed

word with venom. “You’re impressive,

flashing a thumbs-up at

you play hardball. I’ve seen just how ruthless

writes history, that I can’t

provoked you; we were just in your way.

you coveted what the we had, you seized

hadn’t anticipated such drama on the

the air, the implications clear to

whispers about Seth’s tactics,

had once made an indecent pass at

had incensed him enough

against Ray .

had

seemed to

in your family business, my

place immediately.”

shares when

a hospital stay, clung stubbornly to

ten percent.

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

Diaz International event. I can’t do anything

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

my company, so tell me, wouldn’t it be fitting

International,

today?”

at Ray with icy detachment, “If

makes you think you

remark seemed to strip away the

drunken stupor in his eyes, which now brimmed

he looked as if he might

vengeful fury.

bottle of whiskey onto the table

shattered, sending sharp shards

sound of the breaking glass pierced through the festive din like

skip a beat. Instinctively,

her high heels a clumsy match for her

remains of the

out a

Seth’s arm and embracing

circle

Seth, her body

bright red blood fell onto Seth’s hand, and

his arms seemed about to fall

moment.

collective gasp reverberated throughout

hadn’t expected Cicely to intervene, felt a surge

on

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

sword blade, seething with a murderous

glared at Ray.

shot through Cicely’s

Seth’s unrestrained anger, she gripped his clothes tightly, her

“Seth,” she managed to

tall.

fierce gaze softened as it landed

resounding slap, Cicely slapped him. Stunned,

straight. Have you had

provoking him will do you

you?!”

her voice carried anger, it also held

clear tremble.

defiant look seemed to stem from the physical reaction to

eyes made it clear to him—she was

anger, or

constricting pain gripped his heart as

resting on a clear cut on her right arm. He

dark. “Where else are you

her lip, and

restlessness swirled within Seth.

low voice, “Talk

last ounce of self-control seemed to crumble under Seth’s

fear—all converged and

her face. “My… my ankle hurts,” she

twisted it in her last desperate lunge to save

glanced at her high heels and, with

his arms.

to the ground by Charlie, who had

on

Seth and

had caused him a moment’s hesitation.

bottle had swung past

acted swiftly, Cicely had been cut on

carried Cicely away, Ray, pinned

only shout at Seth’s retreating figure

be so damn arrogant. One day, you’ll

done!”

falter

*

injuries, Erik and

frenzy.

ankle and a two-centimeter laceration on

but

been treated, her wounds bandaged, and

eyes were red and

Erik and Creighton, she greeted them with a tearful “Grandpa”

“Dad.”

had just ended a phone call and returned

to the local police station for the time being. Seth gave a brief

concern

concern, which he channeled into

has never known a day of hardship

new year, this happens!

not his fault. I was the

listen and

“Am I not

Enter title…

it’ll still hurt if you scold

pain stop, then go

he said, cutting himself off mid-sentence. She

all his words were stuffed back

a lifetime, could he not see through

watched Cicely, her hair somewhat disheveled but

the moment at the gala when

him with her

Totally unexpected.

shock and anger now took on a new definition

could process these swirling emotions,

intently to the

red eyes and

as could be, then she lifted her arms

passed under her knees, lifting her from

understanding brought a slight sense of peace to the two old

watching.

and Seth

care, and returning to the Ellis residence was the best

she had never mentioned leaving the

rare holiday after the gala, Seth stayed at

Cicely company.

washing up –

carry her, never leaving her side.

Seth was impeccable in

actions

bathroom to the bed

waiting.

process, despite the

and

man beside her, who

tense as a surgical

with Creighton

inevitably turned to

in her room, insisted

it was just to the living room or

to most of

had heard them talk about the mechanical manufacturing issues

family.

which should

to

Seth if Diaz International was interested

response was the same as it had been initially with

Creighton didn’t dwell

on to other matters.

interested in company

able to look up and

just before

had been

at this time.

on

Ellis family prepared a lavish dinner for her. She

table, she brought up the topic of

back to the Diaz family for

as Patty’s mood didn’t match the generosity

were legally married, spending New Year’s at

the most appropriate and

glanced at

somewhat absent-mindedly.

suddenly felt a deep pang

not at home, the vastness of the Ellis residence

as she had returned to spend a few

gatherings, would

*

the New Yearr’s Eve, Seth took Cicely back

residence.

left with them to pick up Danielle from the

agreed that leaving Danielle alone in the hospital over

Year was too heartless. After negotiating with the doctor,

bring her

image of two

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

things up, serving as company

the thought of Danielle’s haughty,

that it might

been bustling since yesterday, and though they

for the New Year’s Eve dinner, they

knowing Miss Danielle would be

at the hospital. And Cicely, arriving at

should have

Her face immediately

Danielle. When she saw Seth carrying

room, her expression paused for a moment, but then she

smiling.

her wheelchair, also had a momentary freeze

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

that

doing here?” Seth

onto the couch. His voice was as flat as the calm

storm.

hands clasped tightly, not

here. We couldn’t leave her all alone

holidays, could we?”

rising in her

not to let her emotions flare

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

family. You

is being

ashamed?”

turned even more mortified

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

face was barely able to contain her fury. “The guest I

should be here. Danielle got herself

repay. What’s wrong with inviting her over for dinner?

taking care of her every single day of the

“By that

an accident and play

family’s dinners even

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

“This is the Ellis

figure that

her?”

don’t

who’s making

“You…”

deep voice cut

been light and smiling,

as she quietly awaited Seth’s

celebrate, not to

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255