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.

all worked up, you know. Getting angry is bad

life, Seth and I will be

Enter title…

coldly and then let out a mocking

am disabled for life, you’ll never be able

off.”d2

she looked at

faint smile. “How shameless

you wish for

Even blood

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

How patient do

out? Or rather, do

someone disabled?”

lips trembled violently as she glared at Cicely. Each word

to her

that you’re off the hook just

even dream of running away. You were

dig you up from your grave and lash your corpse to

better soon,

don’t blame me for

eyed the neatly laid out

but Cicely’s icy, detached voice rang out

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

to eat, that’s if

annoying.”

her arm began to lift, it froze in place. To eat or not

Cicely would win.

ruining my appetite. Please, leave

up at the nurse standing by. “Keep an eye

she eats or

“Understood.”

a

at her again, turning

take two steps, the

darkening as the man who entered caught

of Cicely brought

had just returned from the

front of Cicely.

standing behind Issac, furrowed her

door. She reached out and pushed Issac

feeling

stiffened, his teeth clenched

mixed with rage.

you think you’re misdirecting your

nearly took advantage of me that night

come to settle that score yet,

castrated you myself.”

hit

Cicely,” Ray stammered, “Seth never told you

night?”

he say negate the

raped me?”

she added, “I’m aware of

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

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

mess, not anyone else’s doing. Ms.

dependent. Let’s not make her

listening to the exchange, could hardly

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

course, I know Danielle is the

Cicely nodded with a smile, “Then I

cleared up, I’ll take my

the hospital room. “Ray wasn’t

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

yesterday, but I didn’t let him

her hands

Ray again brought back the chaos of that

that even the mere thought of it

shudder.

“Miss?”

away the memories, “It seems

rich playboy, surrounded

suddenly proclaiming true feelings for one seemed

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

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

It’s clear she means a lot to him.

accident was orchestrated by his family for

at the

liked Danielle so much he’d nearly get her killed? That

*

by Danielle’s

had no idea it would

mood to give Ray any more attention

fork clumsily, she shoveled food into her mouth with

indifference.

Regardless of the tactics used,

not looking up from her plate. “Is it really necessary to go

Nothing’s happening to him now, and

chance for a comeback, but now,

blown it for good.”

so tight his knuckles were white,

forehead. “He orchestrated the

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

My dad said the moment

had his sights set on bringing

fledgling talent agency, run by a

on these things to make everyone relax

a fatal blow. He played

I wasn’t simply drunk.

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

the receiving end of

face drained of color. She had pondered this question before, but

to delve 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

before. I’ve checked with the

optimistic, albeit a rough road ahead. I came here today to see

ask you

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

for him, was it truly

life to save him, or was it

finally turned to look

motive, my only desire

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

father to be so obstinate. If you knew the crash

would you still have stepped

fork down and looked up at him.

answer are you

pressed his lips together. “You

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

her quietly. “I didn’t expect you to

brushing you off. If I had died, what would be the point of saving

“Whether true or not, that’s the answer

have to play the villain in front of me to push me

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

I can’t, I need to

never seen Ray this composed yet

the blanket trembled slightly. She was afraid of

left to lose, there was no telling what kind of madness he

to.

*

and Issac stepped out of the elevator on

across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

brow furrowed imperceptibly when he

her purse slackened for a

smile on

hate hospitals.

Came to check

brief silence, she glanced at him coolly. “I

bullying a cripple,

after Cicely arrived at the hospital.

instantly grasped what Seth was worried about. “Mr.

to check on Miss Danielle, considering

it

faltered for a

the scarf around her neck, presenting only her profile to him,

the corners of her

your presence might exacerbate them,

even leading to harm.”

with a light smile. “I have Issac with

me when I’m

she recovers, the sooner

ties with her.”

into the

I braved the disgust and

again, that demeanor. No overt anger,

it, the clearer Seth could

sarcasm and rebellion.

out

just a

his touch. “Whether I have

to join me.

meal with

such blunt rejection, Seth’s complexion

trusted me?” The question

looked up

room for an answer, as if the question itself had

in her

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

car and pondered for a

Dad at

“Alright.”

the car rolled through the gates of the Ellis family

sprawling manor, feeling an

green pines stood tall but failed to bring any sense

vitality.

furrowed her brows, and the already somewhat

got out of the car

with servants occasionally

to be cautious. “Miss,

at the sound of her arrival, a look of surprise on

you give us a

glanced upstairs,

ago and was reading in the study.

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he

some

turning to look at Brody from the

step, “And what else?”

“There were a couple

deepened as she turned and

ordered the servants to bring out what

a plate of the brownish buckwheat wraps remained, along

light salad of carrots

of ham and cheese.

a nearby chair, she lifted her gaze

for my father’s

frightened to

“Sir has been preferring

he specifically asked for these dishes. Even if

them. Elderly folks’ meals are quite

sir says there’s no

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

table was always a feast

Creighton slumped

book resting on his chest,

and

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

humble corner for his

head over heels in love, insisting on living with Seth

alone in

deeply in her

wake Creighton, gently covering him with a blanket before

out of the study.

Creighton woke from his nap and came downstairs to

the servants, his face lit up with an

why didn’t you

got secrets to hide before I

her. “You’re not fighting with Seth

there be so many quarrels?” Cicely laughed, linking arms

“He’s busy with work, and

all the home-cooked meals. Dad, how about

over for

have to ask him. He listens to you more

to me.”

I’ll talk to

for the rest of the

playfully demanding take-backs that left

amused and exasperated.

son squared

chiming in with

“Silence is golden;

afternoon was lively and bustling, and even the servants were

The entire Ellis family seemed to have returned to how it used

be.

Creighton inquired about

too busy to make it

you two

for us to

Creighton relented.

message. [I’m

coming home tonight.]

wasn’t about to create a dramatic runaway scenario

from home. After all, she couldn’t

anything amiss.

and she didn’t wait up

up at the Ellis estate’s

assist Seth with his

imply

voice neutral, “No, it was just to let

know.”

there’s no reason for

your message as an invitation for

respond, he had pulled her

into the living

closeness, smiled, “I’ve heard you’ve

past few days,

“Not yet.”

I’ll have the staff whip up a few dishes.

were all tailored

him for dinner, but as she stepped out,

her father and

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

in, “You two aren’t fighting, are

a deep breath, “Just came

way over to the coffee table, bending

headed back to the dining

Enter title…

her return to dine with him, and only

up at

Ellis family estate isn’t as cozy as our

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

here for the

emotion crossed Seth’s brow as

down

explain

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

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

over the same person or

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

just

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

short on time. In fact, on my way

I saw my dad and

could use some company.

prove I’m not fighting

her lips curled in an

coupled with her subtle

had been placed on the question she had

noon.

If not,

“If you want to

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

home,

took a sip from his water glass.

by his easy acquiescence, but

if he disagreed today, it

to understand why he mentioned inconvenience

such an easy compromise.

father and grandfather in

her what their conversation would be about—nothing but

matters.

her shopping app for little home decor

and notebooks with

liked doodling when

opened it to find

of frost, stepping inside. “Ms. Cicely, good

him, “How heartless, sending you out in

the night

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

discussing matters. You can sit and

errand. Mr. Seth

I’ll be on

up, turned around, and noticed

quickly directed the

suitcase upstairs.

didn’t linger, bidding

servant brought up a glass of milk. After finishing her

upstairs.

talk about

servant had

and went to the bathroom where the bath had

It had been a while since she’d indulged

into the tub and let out a sigh of

bathroom window was a view of the garden

rotating ground lights. It seemed

especially for her return.

of boredom, she had asked her father to install the

Over the years, glimpsing at them had become a habit

the edge of the bathtub,

of the tub,

over her eyes.

oil dripped into the water, soothing her fatigue.

she didn’t move again. She drifted in and out of sleep

felt a sudden chill.

felt the coolness, and she

her eyes, her hand was caught midair, and she

looked up to see the man frowning at her

side of the tub.

first to drown

was by the man who had appeared silently

warmth of the room had dissipated

feel cold.

Cicely tried to shake off his grip, but he let

to her and began to undress in a

“What

without missing a beat, dropping his clothes

does one do in a bathroom?

grabbed the towel beside the tub to cover

she could leave, she was scooped up into

glared up at him. “Seth!

to do?”

down at the woman in his arms, her face

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

was low and

embarrassingly, “You should be able

without drowning.”

to her quiet,

he preferred her

demeanor.

he began to run his fingers through her

hair

“No.”

warm spray of the shower

hadn’t waited for her consent before turning on

Cicely, but Seth’s hand covered

principles, but that this man

before it even

moving an inch, as the towel

yanked away

in front

modesty she could.

into her hair

to rinse it clean with

eyes closed, Cicely considered that her

After all, there were

for

hair, he nudged her toward the wall to

he took a quick shower

a cool expression,

planning to

there any

it’s quite a trek

on staying here. I

will.”

of anger tinged

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

is nothing compared to spending a whole night

better.”

can’t sleep

drifted leisurely

contours of her body.

darkened imperceptibly, and he reached out to pull her into

from the shower cascading

to prevent water from flowing into

succinct and

insistent pressing against her and came

realization, Seth had already set the showerhead aside, his hand

hers. “We should

go. I

we’re not going out

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

with a familiarity that made it all

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

pain. “This is the Ellis

but you seemed not to mind. Though,

to keep it

wrapped around his waist, and as

vision blurred until she was

slipping her into pajamas, Seth

away from him, her soft

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

away, his long arm scooped her

resist, knowing he’d only persist if

too exhausted to continue

*

The next day.

up, Seth was already gone. The patchy marks on

with new ones added from last

protective—or so

he’d tend to it. Yet now, with her body

all too pleased.

into her loose

Still groggy and listless, she found Creighton

their morning exercise

Cicely, Creighton shook his head with

should fix

by the servant, sipped half of

in is the best part of

your health, and too

most important

didn’t you

irritation left Cicely speechless for

office. Why would I leave

the office, duh! Perfect timing with your holiday. You could learn a thing

the company instead of ending up clueless.

showing clear reluctance. “No,

why he didn’t

at

he really didn’t

she genuinely didn’t know,

the hospital with your grandfather

come?”

her legs onto the

posture a blend of elegance

you’ll have lunch by yourself

were already leaving her to

name had come up

leaving her alone in the hospital while the rest of

inappropriate and heartless. After

were set to visit the

dared say the Ellis family was

Danielle would have a problem

time for dinner.

while

her bedroom, where Seth was busy at

desk.

to the bathroom, and

shower, she emerged to

into bed to play with

Seth had finished his work. He stood up, saw

brushed her forehead with his hand, and

peck on the lips. “I’m going to

Wait for

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

you up to?”

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

rest tonight?”

“Then what am

“Mrs. Diaz, there are plenty of things we

gently,

being pushed away by her, Seth’s body

with unrestrained

for air. She lifted her hands

his shoulders, letting out a soft whimper.

on her, just barely.

to kiss me to death?” she managed to

with their unintentional cuteness, and a

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

just now, Mrs. Diaz,” he said with

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

hers.

warrants a penalty for self-justification,

misunderstand me? Shouldn’t I consider how to

amused expression,

me any way

calmly and seriously

confident, thinking that because I’m

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

beautifully curved jawline, “So, ask yourself, do you

give me a

eyebrow and ran her hand across his face,

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

Seth felt a subtle stir in his heart,

smooth chin,

hand moved from his face to his

“But have you ever heard, love and hate are

start, the more

warm and smiling eyes, but

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

doubt it will. I wouldn’t

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

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

two buttons that Cicely had undone;

unfastened the rest.

tonight. It’s still early, so be

“If you’re not obedient, I’ll

you up my way.”

no desire to find out what his method of waking her

the shower, Cicely

glanced at him, then

game.

and snatched the phone from her hands.

something you need

join me at the office tomorrow

and tapped on her phone

about business, what

do there?”

little, you wouldn’t need to

in the

have to

think your dad

picking on you for no

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

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

Ellis family forever. If one day, shareholders

and start eating

you won’t even know

around you is harmlessly

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

truly in your

makes you insecure? You

you want

Turning to her, his gazes

sounds like

a trail

just saying. But beyond these two reasons, is there anything

didn’t improve,

shadow in their depths replaced by a

be so quick to assume. In fact,

be reflecting on why

downloaded some

you can before sleep, and ask

understand tomorrow.”

document app he had

a blur of text.

then got out of bed, lifting

to reflect. Naturally, I can’t stay

mood.”

watched him get up, grab a coat, and walk

well; it wasn’t about reflection. The man was

a tantrum.

＊

study for two hours. Approaching eleven at

his face looking

in the bedroom, the lights had dimmed, leaving only a nightlight by

Seeing the woman sleeping with the

reignited.

Heartless woman.

taking the phone from her hand and glanced at the

she hadn’t closed.

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

face

in a rush to find her a reliable

the phone and tossing it aside, he watched the woman sleep

cold as he pulled her into

arms and scent, shifted comfortably against

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

wake her up, maybe keep

sentence, she fell silent again, and any further

petty.

＊

morning, he woke Cicely with a

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

morning grumpiness, she was even

robbed of breath.

hard a couple of times. “Are you out

mind?!”

grin as he swung his legs out of bed, “Time to

off

Cicely yanked the comforter over her head

Seth’s voice carried a serious

Cicely didn’t budge.

really gonna make me do this the

moment, Cicely flung the comforter off with a huff, sat up, and lobbed

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

pillow

was close by, and the

I’m not

down, picked up the pillow, and

get ready. If I don’t see you up by

wake you up for the second time,

back to sleep.”

Seth turned away, the corners of

into a

the covers aside and stomped off

onto his

reflection in the mirror.

of his eyebrows, he shifted aside to

and Seth, as

glanced at their reflection.

aside.

brushing. It was not like she

something as simple as toothpaste. The frothy white

the slight smile of

they headed to the

document from last

to know anything.

two pages. So what am I supposed to do at

just smiled and didn’t

the office, Cicely understood why he

new desk and chair in

immediate deployment.

are on the computer; you can keep reading

face away, “Computers

excuse, “There are printed

no matter what excuse she came

for it. Reluctantly, she moved

pile of folders.

anything you don’t understand, and we can

will you be

a C&P

“You’re leaving me

wolves in the office

the reading; I’ll be back by

retort

at her before

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

possibly stir up in

did take

her pen, but within half an hour, the

her phone was

the office, returning

She rummaged through the drawers, fiddled with the decorations,

doodled on a black

phone and then, noticing the time, went back

and

Cicely sat there, the picture of

student.

you

it’s new to me, so I’m on the third

whole morning and you’re proud

stung.

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

the black notebook she

her doodles—a passable cartoon

a

slightly, but quickly adopted

nonchalance.

his lips and took a deep breath,

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

Cicely tidied the documents away. Seth

hungry,” she declared as if

nose and sank into his chair.

Come over here.”

prepared? No complaints

she grudgingly clutched the files and approached him.

arm pulled her into an embrace.

Cicely said, leaning back

his grip tightened around her waist, his voice deep

taking

“What do you mean?”

“Back in the day, you’d concoct all

and respectful. Now, you

impatience and this half-hearted attitude. If that’s

is?”

an eyebrow, “Respectful? That’s because I

it’s intentional,

but Seth had no comeback, “So

feel like harboring intentions

current relationship, that would

Seth was momentarily speechless.

smiled, “What’s for

it’s

pushed her away and leaned back in

his expression and voice

Cicely watched him—

was

by Charlie from a

no intention

“Aren’t you eating?”

was drowned out by the rhythmic clacking of the

mood was

suffused with the unmistakable vibe of ‘he’s upset, and

a big deal’.

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

toward a table laden with food, while he

her way.

it, leave it.

“Then I guess

tonight.”

at her

couch and picked

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

until

“How long

attitude with me?”

“Isn’t it you

you want to keep butting heads with

silverware tightened before relaxing. “Just

continued to

and I’ll sleep with

Seth fell silent.

*

been at the Ellis Corporation since the afternoon, holding

stayed

under

various department heads for

reviews, the office atmosphere was

Ellis

she couldn’t afford to be

the end of the workday approached, Cicely found most

leaders’ trembling, overly respectful demeanors and

word. She hadn’t made much progress

hadn’t commented on it.

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

in a while.”

brow twitched, “I should probably let my dad

need, I’ve

moved to the door to

hadn’t arrived yetTo claim Cicely

down to it, Cicely

with things as they come.

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

wasn’t her

outside was biting, and naturally, Cicely wasn’t

by the door. She cozied up in the lounge area,

around Seth’s.

quickly offered them some tea and

Enter title…

call and returned after a few minutes, sitting

a sip of

broke the ice. “Spit

fascinating about my face?”d2

told

But with him always buzzing around,

even

twirled a strand of her hair, her palm warming

overheard General

about this new mechanical equipment upgrade

socks off the old models. We could corner the market

family has the know-how and the development

got a point. Instead of bidding and choosing

deal over to Diaz International? Given the

and the Ellis family, why haven’t

“The big fish like the Harper family, and the

project. Diaz

Ellis family’s

the Ellis family picks Diaz

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

or do you just chicken out when you see

is it just that you

with the Ellis family?”

interim head of the Ellis Corporation, I can say that the Harper

all more fitting partners

with the Ellis family, are you

make things

predictably, wasn’t surprised by his stance. “What’s wrong with that? As

Why sweat the

pride for you, I’ll bang

twitched into a half-smile.

furrowed her brows. “Too scared to take the big deals, too proud for

point of running Diaz International? Might as

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

that’s actually a

she thought about it,

his eyes but

his silence, Cicely propped her chin

with that? Assess the value of

convert it into shares for you in the

cut you in

shares. How

all this

in Diaz International?”

occurred to me, if there’s anything on

matters to you besides your mother,

father. You know, I’ve been

gives me an edge

might just be it.”

and unfathomable as he watched

Diaz International. So what if I

back on the sofa, with a carefree smile

to let it

thin lips tightened, clearly displeased with her

Cicely just smiled thinly. “Then isn’t my

under the Ellis

do to tick you off?” The voice came

tone that

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

standing opposite her, her face a stormy mix of

wariness.

figured it wasn’t such a bad idea

shabby, right? Especially

to keep things

a scoff, “The future is the future. You bite off only as much

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

International.”

eyes carrying a mild,

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

up,

go.”

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

as if forcefully suppressing a

dinner at the Diaz residence, but

the

was

back to the Ellis residence, Seth took the

“Where are you

“Same as today.”

me alone in the

there, I’ll disturb

against the car window, twirling a strand of

her slender finger.

for a few seconds before slowly speaking, “Yeah,

lips curled into a half-smile, “Should

you?”

shook her head, “No need,

Seth fell silent.

the butler welcomed them respectfully. “Miss, we received quite

been

them now, I can bring them out

said, “Well, bring them out,

Cicely sat cross-legged in

on a waterproof mat and started to slice open

knife.

– mugs, thermos cups, small

She not only unpacked them but also

many times more focused and

when she read documents.

came down to find Cicely

freshen up;

handed him a white

heft, and engraved on it was a

her name beneath. Beside her was a

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

light.

made you think of buying

coming back this time did I realize

it

engrossed in the small

natural thing in the world.

to

the white tumbler in

contentedly.

estate and setting the staff

more. Cicely’s focus was still scattered, but after reviewing a couple

much the same

department heads yesterday.

set the paperwork aside, paced the

knock on the door.

Shane, arms laden with parcels.

addressed to you.”

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

she resumed her

returned to an office

several stylographs, a

couple of notebooks.

in the corner mirrored his, albeit

cushion on

had even appeared on the coffee

wisdom of leaving her alone in

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

for lunch

work did you get

hesitantly added a fourth,

the computer, bringing up a video

every bit of Cicely’s boredom—and her interest

everything but work.

No surprise there.

and Cicely, unaware of its contents, only

she stated,

closed the video.

a screen full of text. Seth looked at her, “Made

spent the whole morning

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

drifted over the new objects on the

a reward, I’ll take you out

office for a meal was music to Cicely’s

*

at

for

several days, and even if Cicely wasn’t eager

she couldn’t help

it was time for

a hectic affair.

and C&P

at the same hotel,

comprised two twenty-six-story towers, linked by sky bridges. The topfloor ballrooms were split

the other north,

Diaz International’s—a floor

with the Ellis Corporation.

silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress

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

dressed as others, she still stood out as the

her birth, Cicely seemed destined

in

luxury. The man by her side was distractingly handsome, a

for onlookers to look away. Cicely had everything

to the Diaz International gala to make the rounds,

the expected

before whisking her away

gala was orchestrated by Seth’s people,

and father present, the

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

almost like a bride

their guests, receiving blessings and

seats, Cicely mused aloud, “Isn’t

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

care of

her chin in her hand, Cicely teased

lot of celebrity beauties

her coolly, “And plenty

to take

your intentions weren’t so transparent, I

have considered it.”

to admire the pretty

one day I’ll bring

personal viewing.”

skipping the

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

a whole. C&P, after its grand slam

was the envy of many. Naturally, the number

up to Seth was

was not a patient man, unwilling to

ingratiate themselves with him.

magnet

event was deliberate, with plenty of

after, Charlie hurriedly

Seth.”Mr. Diaz, Ray got

commotion over

and his demeanor darkened. As he

his wrist,

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

before following Charlie out.

until he was out of

was slouched on the

finished bottle of hard liquor. His face

a sneer, using the steps for

to his feet and approached

each syllable with a bitterness that

word with venom. “You’re impressive, truly

laughed coldly, flashing

admit, you play hardball. I’ve seen just

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

My family never provoked you; we were just in

what the we had, you seized

such drama on the eve of

in the air,

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

had once

fiancée, this had incensed him

against Ray .

course, some speculated that it had been

to confirm

a shareholder in

this place immediately.”

shares when Ray’s

who, even after waking from a

ten percent.

I know this isn’t

event. I can’t do

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

so tell me, wouldn’t it

International, let

today?”

icy detachment, “If you couldn’t even

makes you think

seemed to strip away the last shred of Ray’s

drunken stupor in his eyes,

he might lunge at Seth in a

vengeful fury.

the bottle of whiskey onto the table next to Seth with

shards scattering across the polished

of the breaking glass pierced through the festive din like a

heart to skip

her high heels a

of the bottle

let out a

Seth’s arm

a circle

Seth,

bright red blood fell onto Seth’s

seemed about to fall out of his

moment.

gasp reverberated throughout

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

blood on

stood out, and his face,

bloodied sword blade, seething with a murderous aura as

glared at Ray.

through Cicely’s

she gripped his

with pain. “Seth,” she managed to say,

tall.

gaze softened as it landed on her

Cicely slapped him. Stunned,

not thinking straight. Have you had too much to drink,

good do you think provoking him will do you now?

you?!”

though her voice

clear tremble.

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

eyes made it clear to him—she was

fear, anger, or

gripped his heart

clear cut on

“Where else are you

lip, and tears fell

panic and restlessness swirled

low voice, “Talk

of self-control seemed to crumble under Seth’s growl, and

fear—all converged and broke down silently,

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

in her

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

his arms.

had been tackled to the ground by

on his back, restraining

Seth and was quick to react when

him a moment’s hesitation. In

bottle had swung

Cicely had been cut on the

pinned down by Charlie and unable

could only shout at Seth’s retreating figure with

be so damn arrogant. One

done!”

falter in his

*

and Creighton rushed

frenzy.

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

too shallow, but not

already been treated,

red

she greeted them with

“Dad.”

phone call and returned to the room. Charlie

a brief nod to the Erik and Creighton. Their minds were

concern for

concern, which

of hardship in her life,

new year, this happens! Seth,

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

and

“Am I not

Enter title…

now, and it’ll still hurt if you

the pain stop, then

he said, cutting himself off

all his words were stuffed back

lifetime, could he

Cicely, her hair somewhat disheveled

when she had unexpectedly run up from

him with

Totally unexpected.

took on a new definition upon

could process these

intently to the doctor, then stepped

eyes and pursed lips, looking as pitiful

could be, then she lifted her arms

her knees, lifting her from

a slight sense of

watching.

Cicely and Seth

returning to the

all, she had never mentioned leaving the

Seth stayed

Cicely company.

washing up – any time Cicely needed

carry her, never leaving her side. Apart from

was impeccable in his

silent, complaint-free actions were

carried Cicely from the bathroom to the

waiting.

the

and

heavy silence from the man beside her,

feel as tense

sitting with Creighton that lasted more

inevitably turned

and bored in her room, insisted Seth take

was just to the living room or the study. So she

to most

talk about the

family.

deal which should

year to

Diaz International was interested in

the same as it had

Cicely’s. However, Creighton didn’t dwell on this

on to other matters.

in company affairs, she found comfort in

Seth’s voice and being able to look up

the Ellis residence just before the new year. After

who had been injured protecting

this

than on

a lavish

she brought up the

Cicely back to the Diaz family for

Patty’s mood didn’t match the generosity

since they were legally married, spending New Year’s at

was the most appropriate and normal

paused for a moment, glanced at the young couple, and

somewhat absent-mindedly.

reaction, suddenly felt a deep pang of

was not at home, the vastness of

spend a few days, the New Year, a

festive gatherings, would leave

*

New Yearr’s Eve,

residence.

them to pick up Danielle from the

Creighton agreed that leaving Danielle alone in

too heartless. After negotiating with

to bring

comment. However, the image of two old

feels sad

Danielle might liven things up, serving as company for the

of Danielle’s haughty,

it might

staff had been bustling since yesterday, and

home for the New Year’s Eve dinner,

sumptuous feast knowing Miss Danielle would

at the hospital. And Cicely, arriving

who should have

face immediately

Danielle. When

the room, her expression paused for

smiling.

also had a momentary freeze

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

said that

doing here?” Seth

onto the couch. His voice was

storm.

bit her lip, hands clasped tightly, not saying a

her here. We couldn’t leave her all

holidays, could we?”

of anger rising in her chest, but

to let her

was my dad who applied for her discharge. If

Ellis family. You stay here for the holidays…”

is being

ashamed?”

already embarrassed, turned even more mortified after that brief,

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

to contain her fury. “The guest I invite

herself injured saving Seth’s

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

taking care of her every single day

“By that

stage an accident and play the damsel in distress. Wouldn’t

family’s dinners even more

and she whirled to glare

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

mother figure that you

her?”

“Patty, don’t take your dissatisfaction out on

you who’s making him feel

“You…”

Seth’s deep voice

smiling, settled on a glass on

quietly

not to start a

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