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.

Getting angry is bad for your health.

I will be

Enter title…

her coldly and then

am disabled for life, you’ll never

off.”d2

she looked at Danielle, who seemed

hope. Cicely gave a faint smile. “How shameless are you to

you, even if you wish for a

Seth. Even

you think you are in

decades to live? How patient do you

out? Or rather, do you think Seth could ever

someone disabled?”

trembled violently as she glared

her

you’re

dream of running away. You were so proud,

dig you up from your grave and

you get better soon, you

me

the neatly laid out food before her. Her

but Cicely’s icy, detached

were you, I wouldn’t starve myself just to

you’re willing to eat, that’s if you don’t

annoying.”

in place. To

Cicely would win.

ruining my appetite.

nurse standing by. “Keep

eats or

“Understood.”

a

look at her again, turning

the

paused, her expression darkening as the man who

The sight of Cicely brought a surge of

had just returned from the restroom, rushed in, positioning

front of Cicely.

standing behind Issac, furrowed her brows

when he opened the door. She reached out and

feeling

his teeth clenched as he

mixed with rage.

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

took advantage of me that night

to settle that score yet, and

castrated you myself.”

words hit Ray

stammered, “Seth never

night?”

slightly, “Does what he say

raped me?”

she added, “I’m aware of Mr.

genuinely regret it. Let’s put our

facts straight. It was your drunken folly that

doing. Ms.

incapacitated and dependent. Let’s not make her

exchange, could hardly

briefly to Danielle, his expression flustered, “I’m

know

that so?” Cicely nodded with a smile, “Then I must have misunderstood.

up, I’ll take my

the hospital

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

but I didn’t let him

in her hands until her

back the chaos of that

and terrifying that even the mere thought of it made

shudder.

“Miss?”

away the memories, “It seems Mr.

rich playboy, surrounded by a constant

proclaiming true feelings for one

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

family on

charade for Danielle. It’s clear she means a

accident was orchestrated by his family for her

frowned at

Danielle so much he’d nearly get her killed?

*

room, Ray stood by Danielle’s bed. His

sorry, I had no idea

mood to give Ray any more attention than she had

she shoveled

indifference.

world. Regardless of the tactics used,

not looking up from her plate. “Is it really

to him now, and your family is

was at least a chance for a comeback, but now,

blown it for good.”

his knuckles were white, and a

forehead. “He orchestrated the downfall of my family from

told you not to be fooled

My dad said the

agency, he had his sights set on bringing

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

make everyone relax

blow. He played

wasn’t

Cicely hadn’t shown up, who

the receiving end of my

color. She had pondered this question before,

into it. She didn’t want

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

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

I’ve checked with the doctors

ahead. I came

to ask you

didn’t look up, her voice restrained and flat.

you stepped in front of that car for him, was it truly

or was it just a ploy to achieve

mid-bite and finally turned to look at Ray. “Does it make

with a motive, my only desire was to win

melancholic smile. “It’s

to be so

would you still have

a long silence, Danielle set her fork down

are

lips together. “You should

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

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

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

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

to play the villain in front of me to

it’s like denying everything

but since I can’t, I need

this

slightly. She was afraid of Ray

left to lose, there was no telling what kind

to.

*

out of the elevator

across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

imperceptibly

on her purse slackened for a moment

smile on her

“You hate

she had another episode. Came

silence, she glanced at him coolly. “I have

a cripple,

here not long after Cicely arrived at the hospital.

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

here on your behalf to check on Miss Danielle, considering

thought it might give

gaze faltered

scarf around her neck, presenting only

the corners of her eyes and

are volatile, and your presence might exacerbate

even leading to harm.”

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

person could hurt me when I’m

darkened. “The sooner she recovers, the sooner I

ties with her.”

into the pockets of her

why I braved the disgust

overt anger, just a

the clearer

sarcasm and rebellion.

lunch?” Seth reached out to

he’d learned just a week

avoiding his

probably don’t have the time to join me.

a meal

such blunt rejection,

ever trusted me?” The question floated

a brief pause, he looked up to find the

room for an answer, as

conclusion in

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

into the car and pondered for a moment, her expression

Dad at the

“Alright.”

the car rolled through the gates of the

the window at the sprawling manor, feeling an unexpected sense

green pines stood tall but failed to bring any sense

vitality.

her brows, and the already somewhat suppressed

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

was empty, with servants occasionally moving about in silence.

seemed to be cautious. “Miss, you’re

sound of her arrival, a look of surprise

us

upstairs, “Where’s

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

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he

some

the stairs, turning to look

step, “And what else?”

a couple of

as she turned and headed straight

servants to bring out what Creighton had

buckwheat wraps remained,

salad of carrots and celery, the other a

of ham and cheese.

nearby chair, she lifted her gaze to the servants, “Is

you prepared for my

servants were too frightened to reply, their heads lowered in

said helplessly, “Sir has

dishes. Even if we prepared

Elderly folks’ meals are quite simple. When

no need

enough not to doubt

family’s dining table was always a feast of

found Creighton slumped in a chair

chest, his head tilted, seemingly asleep. A

and her eyes began to

estate now had but one master. That grand dining table now set

corner for

in love, insisting on living with Seth

alone in the

herself deeply in her

Creighton, gently covering him

out of the study.

nap and came downstairs

the servants, his face lit up

you tell me you

secrets to hide before I

not fighting with Seth

so many quarrels?”

couch. “He’s busy with work, and

on my break, missing all the

over for

have to ask him. He listens to you more than

to me.”

talk to

glued to Creighton for the rest of

demanding take-backs

amused and exasperated.

father and son squared off

chiming in

is golden; don’t meddle in

lively and bustling, and

family seemed to have

be.

Creighton inquired about

said he was too busy to make it back. Creighton frowned,

you two

hope for us to be

Creighton relented.

a message. [I’m at

coming home tonight.]

to create a dramatic runaway scenario with Seth,

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

anything amiss.

reply, and she didn’t

up at the Ellis

moved to assist Seth with his

your message imply for

on the rack, her voice neutral, “No, it was just to

know.”

for a married couple to

message as an invitation

could respond, he had pulled her into his

into the living room.

seeing the couple’s closeness, smiled, “I’ve

these past few days, have you eaten

“Not yet.”

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

dishes were all tailored

on joining him for dinner, but as

of her

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

chimed in, “You two aren’t fighting, are

“Just came out to grab my

her way over to the coffee table, bending

headed back to

Enter title…

seemed to have anticipated her return to dine with him,

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

family estate isn’t as cozy as our

gripped her water bottle, her expression nonchalant. “There’s

here for the near

crossed Seth’s brow as he

set down

explain myself

well. Now that you’ve explained

“I said

over the

dabbed his mouth with a napkin, “So you’re telling

back here just on

reason, I have some. I’m on holiday, but

short on time. In fact, on my way back today, I

then I saw my

time for me, but he could use some company.

prove I’m not

was impassive, her lips curled in

hearing the last part, coupled with her subtle expression,

answer had been placed on the question

noon.

it? If

in amusement. “If you want to stay, stay. It’s

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

home,

from his water glass.

was surprised by his easy acquiescence, but the feeling was

even if he disagreed today,

understand why he mentioned

such an easy compromise.

and grandfather in

their conversation would be about—nothing

matters.

shopping app for little home

LEGO sets, and notebooks with pens.

but she liked doodling

knocked, the servant opened it

frost, stepping inside. “Ms.

him, “How heartless, sending you out in such

the night no

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

matters. You can sit and

errand. Mr. Seth asked me

be on my way

finally looked up, turned around, and noticed a

seeing this, quickly directed the servant

suitcase upstairs.

didn’t linger, bidding farewell and

up a glass of

upstairs.

have to talk about for so long

The servant had refilled their water

some clothes and went to

a while since she’d indulged in a good

the

view of

rotating ground lights. It seemed they had been turned

especially for her return.

the past, out of boredom, she had asked her father to

glimpsing at them had

the bathtub, staring

edge of the tub, twisted a hot towel,

over her eyes.

essential oil dripped into the water, soothing her fatigue.

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

felt a sudden chill.

the water felt the coolness, and she

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

and she looked up to see

side of the tub.

first to drown in

by the man who had appeared silently

warmth of the room had dissipated

feel cold.

guess who’d be to blame.” Cicely tried to shake

he stood next to her and began to undress

frowned, “What are you

without missing a beat, dropping his clothes into

one do in a bathroom?

the tub to cover herself, and stood

could leave, she

and glared up

to do?”

down at the woman in his arms, her face

the warm bath, more radiant than usual. He smirked, planting

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

“You should be able

without drowning.”

chuckled softly. Compared to her quiet, gentle

aura, he preferred her current bold,

demeanor.

began to run

your hair

“No.”

spray of the

consent before turning on the shower.

Seth’s hand covered her eyes.

principles, but that

before it even

moving an inch,

away

in front of

modesty she could.

lathered shampoo into her hair with patience, massaging

his chest to rinse it

and eyes closed, Cicely considered that her

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

fallen for

conditioner to her hair, he nudged her toward the

he took a quick shower

a cool expression, Cicely asked,

Are you planning to

there any

apartment, it’s quite a trek from here to

on staying here. I can’t exactly haul

will.”

of anger tinged Cicely’s

drew closer to her. “It’s okay. Waking

to spending a

better.”

sleep

leisurely over her face and down

contours of her body.

reached

the shower cascading over her

water from flowing into them, Cicely’s

succinct and cryptic response,

suddenly felt something insistent pressing against her

Seth had already set the showerhead aside, his hand on

against hers. “We should

“Let go. I can dry it

we’re not going out just

could react, Seth’s lips closed

with a familiarity that made it

afraid she’d scream out. She

pain. “This is the

you

to keep it

legs was wrapped around his waist, and as the room

her, her vision blurred until she was on the brink of

slipping

her soft hair spreading across the

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

away, his long arm

strength to resist, knowing he’d only

too exhausted to continue

*

The next day.

woke up, Seth was already gone. The patchy marks

with new ones added from last

so he

now, with her body covered

all too pleased.

up and slipping into her loose loungewear,

and listless, she found Creighton and

exercise and were already two chess

Cicely, Creighton shook his head with a mix of affection

should fix

the servant, sipped half

in is the best part of a

Skipping breakfast is bad for your health, and too much

most important meal.

you

irritation left Cicely speechless for a

Why would I leave with

Perfect timing with your holiday.

instead of ending up clueless. What?

clear reluctance. “No,

why he

chuckled, “You’re quite good at passing the buck

he really

she genuinely didn’t know, Creighton dropped the

grandfather

come?”

curled her legs onto the couch, resting

a blend of

lunch

just returned, and they were already

come up several

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

a table was incredibly inappropriate and heartless.

were set to visit the

Anyone who dared say the Ellis

Danielle would have a

in time for

upstairs first, while

going up to her bedroom, where Seth was busy at

desk.

the bathroom, and upon entering, she locked

After a quick shower, she emerged to

climbed into bed to play

had finished his

over, brushed

give her a gentle peck on the lips.

Wait for me,

looked up lazily, “How horny can you be? It’s

you up to?”

quirked with a hint of teasing, “What makes

rest tonight?”

mumbled, “Then what

of things

gently, “Then hurry up and

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

penetrating with

gasping for air. She lifted her hands and started

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

on her, just barely.

you trying to kiss me to death?” she managed

Seth off guard with their unintentional cuteness,

escaped him. “Kiss you to death? I wouldn’t dream

now, Mrs. Diaz,” he said with a

bit of sweet punishment.” “Misunderstood?” Cicely’s drowsy eyes suddenly sharpened as she gazed

from hers. A

misunderstanding warrants a penalty

you misunderstand me? Shouldn’t I consider

held the same amused expression, yet a chill seemed to

me any way you

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

thinking that because I’m so into you, any

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

her beautifully curved jawline, “So, ask yourself,

to give

raised an eyebrow and ran her hand across his face, her

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

the emotion in her eyes, Seth felt

gently caressing her smooth chin, “You like me that

moved from

“But have you ever heard, love and hate are

the start,

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

brows soft with

which I doubt it will. I wouldn’t choose to

bee sting to the nerve, his dark

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

shirt was already missing two buttons that

unfastened the rest.

still early,

turned to leave and then paused, “If you’re

you up my way.”

out what his method of waking her

from the shower, Cicely was propped up in

video game. She glanced at him,

game.

the

“Is there something you need

at the office

talking, he swiped and tapped on her

anything about business, what am I supposed

do there?”

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

in the

I have

Do you think

you for

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

the future,

the Ellis family forever. If one day, shareholders

start eating away at

you won’t even know where to cry.

around you

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

Ellis family is mine, isn’t it yours

in your own hands,

you insecure? You think

Or maybe you want to leave

her, his gazes

like you’re quite convinced you’ve

a

saying. But beyond these two reasons,

improve, and

shifted, the shadow in their depths replaced by a shallow

assume. In fact, instead of you being unhappy,

on why I harbor such

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

before sleep, and ask me

understand tomorrow.”

the phone, the document app he had

text. “What

of bed, lifting the covers. “I’m

I can’t stay by your side and affect

mood.”

grab a coat, and walk out. Her

it wasn’t

a tantrum.

＊

for two hours. Approaching eleven

face looking worse than

bedroom, the lights had

with the

reignited.

Heartless woman.

taking the phone from her hand and

she hadn’t closed.

for

sleeping face

in a rush to find her

phone and tossing it aside, he watched the

cold as he

man’s arms and scent, shifted

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

Seth wanted to wake her

silent again, and any further pursuit

petty.

＊

he woke Cicely with a kiss

of strong coffee. Even for school,

to morning grumpiness, she was even more

robbed of breath.

away, she kicked him hard a couple of times.

mind?!”

swung his legs out of

off to the

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

face.” Seth’s voice carried

Cicely didn’t budge.

really gonna make me do this

Cicely flung the comforter off with a huff, sat up,

strength could she

pillow

the pillow barely registered

over this, I’m not going

the pillow, and placed it back on the

up by the time I’m out, I’ll just carry you to

If you don’t want me to wake you up for the

back to sleep.”

teeth in frustration. As Seth turned

into a sly

threw the covers aside and

busy squeezing toothpaste onto his brush. He watched

reflection in the mirror.

of his eyebrows, he shifted aside to give her

Seth, as if on

She glanced at their reflection. Seth

aside.

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

as simple as toothpaste. The

smile of her

they headed to

the document from last night did you read?”

to know anything.

So what am I supposed to do at

smiled and didn’t

office, Cicely understood why

and chair

immediate deployment.

on the computer; you can

her face away, “Computers

to anticipate this excuse, “There are printed

She felt like no matter what excuse she came

she moved

pile of folders.

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

you be

a

frowned, “You’re leaving

wolves in the

focus on the reading; I’ll

mouth to retort but held back.

at her

been darting around, a clear sign she

stir up in

after Seth left, Cicely did take the documents seriously

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

her phone

she left the office, returning after another

She rummaged through the drawers, fiddled

pen and doodled on a

she played with her phone and then, noticing

and the

before noon. Cicely sat there, the

student.

much did you get through?”

since it’s new to me, so

whole morning and you’re proud of that?”

stung.

fact that I’m even sitting here is a

desk, noticing the black notebook

it open, he found her

written in a confident,

slightly,

nonchalance.

pursed his lips and took a deep

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

away. Seth

hungry,” she declared as if it

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

Come over here.”

prepared? No

she grudgingly clutched the files and approached him. Before

pulled her into an embrace.

office,” Cicely said, leaning back with a

waist, his voice deep and serious,

taking

“What do you mean?”

the day, you’d

and respectful. Now, you can’t

half-hearted attitude. If that’s

is?”

an eyebrow, “Respectful? That’s

it’s intentional,

impunity, but Seth had no comeback, “So

feel like harboring

our current relationship, that would

Seth was momentarily speechless.

victorious, smiled,

me, it’s

leaned back in his

expression and

Cicely watched him—

man was

a local

to have no

“Aren’t you eating?”

response was drowned out by the rhythmic

“Not hungry.” His mood was as frosty

the unmistakable vibe of

a big deal’.

to eat all this by myself?” she

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

her way.

it, leave it. Nobody

and huffed, “Then I guess you’ll

tonight.”

at her with an icy

the couch and picked up the elegantly wrapped

we have to sleep together every night. If you

until you’re

“How long

attitude with me?”

it you who’s been in a

to keep butting

silverware tightened

continued to watch

me, and I’ll sleep with

Seth fell silent.

*

had been at the Ellis Corporation since

had stayed in his

wanted to slack off, but under Seth’s

with him summoning various department heads for updates on

reports and progress reviews, the office atmosphere

the Ellis family, even

couldn’t afford to be seen

end of the workday approached, Cicely found most of

leaders’ trembling, overly respectful demeanors

She hadn’t made much progress

hadn’t commented on it.

for a bit. Mom’s shopping

in a while.”

brow twitched, “I should

I’ve already told

an acknowledgment and moved to the door to put on her

arrived yetTo claim Cicely wasn’t

but when it came down to it, Cicely knew

things as they come. If Patty was in a good

best to steer clear. It

that Patty wasn’t her biggest

biting, and naturally, Cicely wasn’t about to

door. She cozied up in the

around Seth’s.

them some

Enter title…

to take a call and returned

He took a sip

minutes of silence, Seth broke the ice. “Spit it

fascinating about my face?”d2

told if she didn’t

him. But with him always buzzing around,

he hadn’t even mentioned anything about

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

nonchalantly, “I overheard General

about this new

off the old models. We

The Ellis family has the know-how and the development

got a point. Instead of bidding

to Diaz International? Given the ties

and the Ellis family, why haven’t

big fish like the Harper family, and

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

the Ellis family’s offer just

Diaz International, the rest can just sit

and watch. Seth, so many would kill

you just chicken out when

is it just that you flat-out

with the Ellis family?”

Ellis Corporation,

are all more fitting

Ellis family, are you suggesting I use my position

to make

his stance. “What’s wrong with that?

what counts. Why sweat the small stuff? If it’s

pride for you, I’ll bang the

into a half-smile. “Is there a

“Too scared to take the big deals, too proud for

running Diaz International? Might as well let

it up. That way, you wouldn’t have to

actually a pretty solid

more she thought about it,

eyes but said

propped her chin

with that? Assess the

you in the Ellis family?

personally, and I’ll cut you in on a

shares. How

her coolly. “What’s all this rigmarole for? Why

in Diaz International?”

me, if there’s anything

mother,

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

an edge

might just be it.”

unfathomable

last bit of Diaz International.

a carefree

time to

clearly displeased with her

his reaction, Cicely just smiled thinly. “Then isn’t my

under the Ellis family banner the best

International ever do to tick you off?” The voice

Cicely, a familiar tone that belonged to none

at her mug, then switched on her charm as she

already standing opposite her, her

wariness.

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

on the Ellis family ain’t too shabby,

to keep things so

scoff, “The future is the

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

International.”

eyes carrying a mild, nonchalant smile,

further. If Patty wasn’t bringing it up,

stood up, his expression far

go.”

glanced at Cicely, probably mindful of Seth’s

if forcefully suppressing a

had dinner at the Diaz residence, but

the real

the night was out

the drive back to the Ellis residence,

you off

“Same as today.”

in

there, I’ll disturb your

the car window, twirling a strand of hair

her slender finger.

was silent for a few seconds before

into a half-smile, “Should I prepare some

you?”

her head, “No need,

Seth fell silent.

the butler welcomed them respectfully.

they’ve been temporarily

like to open them now, I can bring them out

shoes and said,

many packages. Cicely sat

and started to

knife.

–

She not only unpacked them but also studied

was many times more focused and serious

when she read documents.

he came down to find Cicely amidst an

“Go freshen up; we’re up early

a white travel tumbler. “This one’s for

and engraved on it was

Beside her was a

items were pairs, hers in

light.

made you think of buying

did I

and it feels

in the small items, her tone and

thing in the world. Seth didn’t say

urged her to get some

the white tumbler

contentedly.

dropping her at the Ellis estate and setting the staff to work, Seth

Cicely’s focus was still scattered, but

realized they were much the same as

department heads yesterday.

she set the paperwork aside, paced the office, and then

knock on the door.

with parcels. “Ms. Cicely, these parcels,

addressed to you.”

at the

in Seth’s chair, she resumed

to an office transformed. His

a new pen holder, several stylographs, a fresh mouse pad, and

couple of notebooks.

his, albeit with

cushion on the

flowers had even appeared on the coffee table. He

question the wisdom of leaving her alone in

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

for

countered, “How much work did you get

raised three fingers, then hesitantly

on the computer, bringing up

capturing every bit of Cicely’s boredom—and her

everything but work.

No surprise there.

silent, and Cicely, unaware of its

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

closed the video.

full of text. Seth

progress today, spent the

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

the new objects on the desk,

a reward, I’ll take you out for

for a meal was music to

*

stayed at

for reports and

stretched over several days, and even if

company affairs, she couldn’t

everything settled, it was time for

a hectic affair.

Ellis Corporation, Diaz International, and C&P

day, at

twenty-six-story towers, linked by sky bridges. The topfloor ballrooms were split between the Ellis Corporation and

on the south, the other north,

just below Diaz International’s—a floor apart,

with the Ellis Corporation.

dressed in a silver-gray, fitted cocktail

wore a pair of silver high-heeled shoes, and

stood out

birth, Cicely seemed

simple in design,

was distractingly handsome, a sight

to look away. Cicely

to the Diaz International

expected pleasantries, to clink

whisking her away to

Ellis Corporation gala was orchestrated

the spotlight

Seth and Cicely’s arrival at the Ellis

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

their guests, receiving blessings and

Cicely mused aloud,

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

taking care of it,”

her hand, Cicely teased with a mischievous

lot

coolly, “And plenty of male

curious to

a snort, Seth retorted, “If your intentions

have considered it.”

want to admire the

curtly, “Sure, one day I’ll bring

personal viewing.”

about skipping the C&P gala. Cicely understood

to keep a low profile there, and even more

whole. C&P, after its grand slam start and the valuable

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

up to Seth

a patient man, unwilling to

ingratiate themselves with him.

was a magnet for

from the C&P event was

long after, Charlie hurriedly arrived, lowering

Ray got drunk

a commotion over at

his demeanor darkened.

his wrist,

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

before following Charlie out.

watched him until he was out of sight, then rose

Diaz International’s gala, Ray was slouched on the

a nearly finished bottle of hard liquor. His face

a sneer, using the

feet and

syllable

with venom. “You’re impressive,

coldly, flashing a thumbs-up at

seen just how ruthless you

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

family never provoked you; we

we had, you

anticipated such drama on the eve of their holiday

hung in the air, the implications clear

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

whim because Ray had once made an

had incensed him

against Ray .

it had been a

seemed to

still a shareholder in your family business, my suggestion

leave this place

their shares when Ray’s family

waking from a hospital stay, clung stubbornly to

ten percent.

was bitter, “Rest assured, I know this isn’t

your Diaz International event. I can’t do anything

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

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

and ruined Diaz International, let you taste the bitterness

today?”

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

think you

strip away the last shred

the drunken stupor in his eyes, which now

menace, and he looked as if he might lunge

vengeful fury.

whiskey onto the table next to Seth with such

shards scattering across the

pierced through the festive din

Cicely’s heart to skip a beat. Instinctively,

heels a clumsy match for

brandished the jagged remains of the bottle

she let out a breathless shout.

pulling Seth’s arm and

a circle to avoid

to Seth, her

fell onto

his arms seemed about to fall out

moment.

reverberated throughout the banquet

hadn’t expected Cicely to intervene, felt

on his

and his face, usually cool and

a bloodied sword blade, seething with

glared at Ray.

shot through Cicely’s

gripped

pain. “Seth,” she managed to say, forcing herself

tall.

softened as it landed on her

Cicely slapped him. Stunned, he looked

drunk and not thinking straight. Have you

think provoking him will

you?!”

and though her voice carried anger, it also

clear tremble.

look seemed to stem from the physical reaction to

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

fear, anger,

strange, constricting pain gripped his heart as he surveyed her injuries,

on her right

“Where else are you

her lip, and

and restlessness swirled within Seth. He growled

low voice, “Talk

seemed to crumble

indignation, fear—all converged and

my ankle

twisted it in her last

and, with a grimace, bent down to scoop her

his arms.

been tackled to the ground by Charlie, who

knee on his back, restraining his

had been right beside Seth and was quick to

had caused him a moment’s hesitation. In

had swung past

Cicely had been cut on the

away, Ray, pinned down

only shout at Seth’s retreating figure with

arrogant. One day, you’ll

done!”

didn’t falter in

*

and Creighton rushed to

frenzy.

diagnosis: a sprained ankle and a two-centimeter laceration on

shallow, but not too

then, she had already been treated,

eyes were red and swollen

and Creighton, she greeted them with

“Dad.”

a phone call and returned to the room. Charlie had

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

their concern for

mask his concern, which he

never known a day of hardship in her life, and just

the new year,

not his fault. I was the one

listen and

shot her a glare. “Am I not

Enter title…

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

pain stop, then go

stop,” he said, cutting himself off

natter until all his words were stuffed back down his throat.

could he not

Cicely, her hair somewhat disheveled but

moment at the gala when she had unexpectedly run

him with

Totally unexpected.

and anger now took on a new definition

process these swirling emotions, the doctor’s

intently to the

red eyes and pursed lips, looking as pitiful

could be, then she lifted her arms and wrapped them around

knees, lifting

understanding brought a slight sense

watching.

drove Cicely and Seth back to the

returning to the

had never mentioned leaving the Ellis

the rare holiday after the gala, Seth stayed at the Ellis residence

Cicely company.

up – any time

there to carry her, never leaving her side. Apart from

was impeccable

complaint-free actions were bittersweet for

Cicely from the bathroom to the bed where

waiting.

the bandaging process, despite the doctor’s

shift in pressure and Cicely would wince. This

beside her, who seemed

feel as tense

any sitting with Creighton that lasted more

turned to

alone and bored in her room, insisted Seth take her

he went, even if it was just to the living room or the study. So

to most of

heard them talk about the mechanical

family.

postponed the deal which should have been settled

to

Diaz International was interested

same as it had been initially with her.

Cicely’s. However, Creighton didn’t dwell

on to other matters.

interested in company affairs, she found comfort in

able to look up

the Ellis residence just before the new year. After

had been

this

than on

family prepared a lavish dinner for

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

bring Cicely back to the

as Patty’s mood didn’t match the

they were legally married,

was the most appropriate and

a moment, glanced at the young

somewhat absent-mindedly.

Creighton’s reaction, suddenly felt a

days when she was not at home, the vastness of the

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

festive gatherings, would leave him

*

the morning of the New Yearr’s Eve, Seth took Cicely back

residence.

pick

and Creighton agreed that leaving Danielle alone in the hospital over

heartless. After negotiating with the doctor,

to bring her

However, the image

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

things up, serving

again, the thought of Danielle’s

feel that it might be

bustling since yesterday, and

being home for

feast knowing Miss Danielle would be

at the hospital. And

residence, encountered Danielle, who should have been picked

Her face

happily with Danielle. When she saw

her expression paused for a moment,

smiling.

her wheelchair, also had a momentary

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

said that

here?” Seth asked,

voice was as flat as the calm

storm.

bit her lip, hands clasped

couldn’t leave her all alone

holidays, could we?”

anger rising in her chest, but she fought to keep it in

to let her emotions flare out

was my dad who applied for her

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

Danielle. “Patty is

ashamed?”

already embarrassed, turned even more mortified after that

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

able to contain her

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

we can never repay. What’s wrong

of her every single day of the

into a sneer. “By

just stage an accident and play the damsel

Ellis family’s

face turned pale with anger, and she whirled to glare

Cicely. “This is the Ellis

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

her?”

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

it you who’s making him

“You…”

Seth’s deep voice cut

light and smiling, settled on a glass on the

as she quietly awaited Seth’s next

not to start a scene and

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