The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

Chapter 2031-2040

So, what do you want to do then?”

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

speak, but no words came out.

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

hospital room spotless again.

Charlie returned with a fresh lunch from a nearby deli.

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

“Eat up.”d2

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

Enter title…

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

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

use the restroom on your own.”

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

the fork.

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

“Have you eaten?”

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

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

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

Danielle didn’t dare to press him further.

*

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

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

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

Issac stared at her silently.

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

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

make sure she gets it.”

Issac was moved. “I’ll send someone.”

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

message popped up from Emiliana.

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

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

Cicely: [I’ll add him.]

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

I

ssac was still there when she looked up.

“Why haven’t you left?”

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

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

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

driver’s ID before letting Cicely leave.

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

accepted her friend request.

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

Cicely: [Have you had lunch yet?]

Santino: [Not yet.]

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

Santino did too.

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

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

mask and sunglasses hiding his well-known face.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

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

hope you’re not pressed for time.”

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

Cicely smiled as the dishes began to arrive.

“Thanks for bringing my car back.”

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

difficult.”

Cicely raised an eyebrow. “Fine by me.”

“Are you out on your own again today?”

The question felt ironic to Cicely.

“Is that strange?”

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

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

your age seems a bit lonely too soon.”

Lonely.

Cicely paused. The word felt foreign to her.

She had never considered it a description for herself.

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

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

annoying.”

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

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

“Considerate and understanding?”

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

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

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

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

you through more efficient work.

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

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

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

more you’ve won.”

Cicely’s gaze turned distant.

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

The more it hurts, the more she wins.

Savoring Santino’s words, Cicely smiled.

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

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

Cicely remained noncommittal.

After all, actors portray life in all its facets.

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

for a while.”

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

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

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

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

gratitude.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

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

Santino seemed quite pleased with the idea.

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

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

wedding photos.

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

There were two photos.

One was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

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

suggest such a clichéd stance.

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

might take in the future.

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

of its authenticity.

“Great, wrap it up for me.”

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

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

Actually, he was completely taken aback.

“Just two wedding photos?”

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

fitting.”

Santino nodded in understanding.

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

sunglasses, he was recognized.

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

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

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

Congratulations, you look stunning.”

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

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

you?”

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

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

he proposed with is the same brand you endorse.”

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

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

photo with her.

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

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

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

all the best.”

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

They both chuckled at the apparent misunderstanding.

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

Santino took them casually.

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

picture on social media?”

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

“Thank you.”

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

“Any plans now?” he asked.

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

ago.

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

and rejecting her lunch.

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

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

needs, including trips to the bathroom.

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

very noon.

Santino was right.

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

If not for her, then for someone else.

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

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

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

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

there.”

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

Issac dismissed the caregiver Seth had arranged for Danielle and replaced

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

even the unexpected ones, had been meticulously arranged.

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

the call and dialed Cicely’s number.

— Powered off.

His brow furrowed, and he then called the apartment.

Enter title…

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

yet.”d2

“Alright,” Seth replied coolly.

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

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

been dining out quite often lately.”

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

“Sure thing.”

*

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

past two years.

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

didn’t skimp on expenses.

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

lighting and the sound quality were top-notch.

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

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

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

interest.

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

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

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

Boring.

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

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

recognized her.

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

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

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

with the staff.

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

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

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

excruciating detail?”

“Not quite.”

Cicely sighed. “Sounds dull.”

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

“It better be the best meal ever.”

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

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

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

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

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

personified.

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

caught their attention.

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

responsible for Santino’s interview was curious about her.

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

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

opportunity that they were just friends.

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

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

up a frenzy.

Their plans did not include a love affair for Santino.

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

Cicely was after the interview.

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

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

was already dark outside.

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

seeing him, they erupted into excited screams.

Santino waved back with a smile.

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

anxious.

“Santino, who is she?”

“Is she your new assistant?”

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

chaos, explaining that they were just friends.

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

moment.

Some fans even started crying on the spot.

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

detached amusement.

“What a spectacle,” she remarked.

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

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

find them ridiculous?”

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

suffocating.”

Cicely narrowed her eyes, “How so?”

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

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

happy.”

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

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

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

later.”

Cicely understood; such people did exist.

“That does sound suffocating.”

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

interested in the topic at all.

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

they’ll be returned to you shortly.”

Cicely did as instructed.

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

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

Cicely was genuinely intrigued.

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

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

dish she had seen in a movie.

*

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

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

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

she glanced towards the door.

“Sir, you’re back.”

“Yes. Where is she?”

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

She had thought the couple would come home together.

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

phone and continued to call Cicely.

Voicemail.

It had been voicemail all afternoon.

He turned and dialed Charlie’s number instead.

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

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

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

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

Hollywood-themed diner.”

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

speechless.

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

online. You’ll see.”

Online.

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

overwhelming.

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

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

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

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

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

who knew her could recognize her without a doubt.

Seth’s eyes were cold and terrifying.

Carly shivered from where she stood.

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

turning to walk into the living room.

“Carly, you can head home.”

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

instructions.

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

“I’ll take care of it.”

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

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

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

still simmering on the stove.

*

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

frequently on his watch.

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

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

uncomfortable it will be for you.”

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

Santino fell silent.

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

He was trending.

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

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

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

Santino didn’t make much of it.

After dinner, Santino handed her a scarf.

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

recognized.”

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

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

When they stepped out, Santino shielded Cicely behind him.

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

Who was she?

Was Santino in love?

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

The assistant tried to explain, to no avail.

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

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

displeasure was clear.

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

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

to know who.”

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

persistent journalists.

Santino pulled Cicely away.

*

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

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

pulling up to the apartment building.

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

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

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

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

man opposite her.

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

building.

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

around his neck.

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

tightened as he turned away from the window.

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

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

with his back to her.

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

coat, then bending down to change her shoes.

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

with a detached gaze.

Cicely glanced at him and gathered her statically charged hair.

“Did you come back early today?”

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

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

toward the bedroom while tying it up.

“You can wash your hands outside too.”

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

lingered on him for even a second.

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

within him, his voice tense and cold.

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

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

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

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

toward the bedroom.

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

bedroom entrance.

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

“What are you doing?”

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

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

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

“Drinking again?”

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

I’m tired and want to rest early.”

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

face in her neck.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seth had never been treated like this before.

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

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

her onto the bed.

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

to the mattress.

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

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

breath a chilling mix of anger and frost.

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

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

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

you’re expecting from me?

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

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

Her lips twisted into a defiant smirk.

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

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

into some heartless jerk?”

Enter title…

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

She had actually considered all of this.

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

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

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

Danielle go?”

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

and dripping with sarcasm.

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

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

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

Seth remained silent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

my face and laugh at my failure.

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

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

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

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

mockery.

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

Whether Cicely liked him was always clear.

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

o why did he lose control tonight?

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

her face.

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

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

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

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

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

such things so easily.

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

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

they’re worthless.”

Her expression briefly turned chillingly cold and dismissive before she pushed

him away and left for the bathroom without a word.

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

*

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

hair, clearly post-shower as well.

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

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

changed by Seth.

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

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

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

with a calm expression.

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

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

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

window.

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

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

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

“Right.”

“Good. I trust you.”

What other choice did she have?

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

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

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

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

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

Seth paused, then pulled her into his arms.

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

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

her through and through.

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

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

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

arms still tight around her.

Would she leave him?

How could she?

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

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

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

way to mend or fill it.

*

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

point to check in at the apartment in person.

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

and had woken up early.

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

the door for Charlie.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Charlie caught the keys deftly and immediately went downstairs.

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

room.

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

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

was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

hang them up.”

“Sure thing.”

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

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

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

remembering when.

Her tone suggested she was in a good mood.

“A bit to the right.”

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

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

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

bullets.

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

steady.

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

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

ought to have built some rapport.”

Charlie nearly leapt out the nearby window.

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

“Time to eat.”

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

left. There, that’s perfect.”

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

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

“Time for breakfast.”

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

After breakfast, Seth and Cicely left the apartment together.

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

to the office.

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

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

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

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

the affair that the matter finally settled.

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

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

had deliberately quashed the story.

Cicely didn’t dwell on it.

Once it was over, it was over.

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

caused.

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

it was best to let it go.

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

her.

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

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

evenings.

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

his work.

His efficiency visibly increased.

Yet, it was clear he was getting tired.

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

find reasons to be understanding and to feel for them.

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

accommodate them.

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

want to see him exhausted.

Thankfully, it was only for a week.

*

Cicely spent a day resting at home during the holiday.

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

trouble at the hospital again.]

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

leading to another emotional breakdown.

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

was all an act to garner attention.

It had worked for her before.

Danielle’s room was in disarray.

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

deliberate mess.

Cicely visited around noon, bringing lunch from home.

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

shifting to a feigned calm as she faced Cicely coldly.

“Here to gloat over me again?”

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

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

around?”

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

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

someday.”

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

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

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

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

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

your grand design.”

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

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

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

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

remember, Danielle, you still owe me.”

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

and arranged the lunch before Danielle.

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

smirk forming on her lips as she turned to Cicely.

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

me with kindness?”

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

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

use that term to describe me?”

Danielle’s face turned sour with malice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

anger and agitation.

get all worked up, you know. Getting angry is bad

life, Seth and I will be driven to madness, won’t

Enter title…

and then let out a

really am disabled for life, you’ll

off.”d2

eyes flickered slightly as she looked at Danielle,

hope. Cicely gave a faint smile.

you, even if you wish for a life of disability, the

Seth. Even blood

How important do you think you are in Seth’s heart?

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

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

someone disabled?”

pale lips trembled violently as she glared at Cicely. Each

her

for a second that you’re off the

away. You were so proud,

die, I will dig you up from your grave

better soon, you might be able

don’t blame me for

the neatly laid out food before her.

detached voice rang

myself just

until you’re willing to

annoying.”

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

Cicely would win.

my appetite. Please, leave

by. “Keep

eats

“Understood.”

took a

her again, turning towards the door

the door

as the

Cicely brought a surge of intense hatred

just returned from the restroom, rushed

front of Cicely.

her brows

She reached out

Ray, feeling any

face stiffened, his teeth clenched as he glared

mixed with rage.

“Mr. Ray, don’t you think

advantage of me that

come to settle that score yet, and here you

castrated you myself.”

words hit Ray

stammered, “Seth never told you

night?”

gaze lowered slightly, “Does what he say negate

raped me?”

she added, “I’m aware

it. Let’s put

straight. It was your drunken folly

anyone else’s doing. Ms. Danielle is the true

dependent. Let’s not make her situation any

the exchange, could

to Danielle, his expression flustered,

trouble. Of course, I know Danielle is the biggest

Cicely nodded with a smile,

up, I’ll

shielded Cicely as they left the hospital room.

him accountable.

yesterday, but I didn’t let

clenched the bag in her hands until her knuckles

back the chaos

vivid and terrifying that even the mere thought

shudder.

“Miss?”

blinked away the memories, “It seems

rich playboy, surrounded by a constant

feelings

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

“Not perhaps. With his family on the

clear she means a lot to him. I

orchestrated by his family for her

at

Danielle so much he’d nearly get her killed? That seemed a bit

*

stood by

“I’m sorry, I had no idea it

wasn’t in the mood to give Ray any

fork clumsily, she shoveled food into

indifference.

dog-eat-dog world. Regardless of the tactics

not looking up from her plate. “Is it really

and your family

a chance for

blown it for good.”

his knuckles were white, and a

“He orchestrated the downfall

to be fooled by his act.

dad said

had his sights set on bringing

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

to make

delivered a fatal blow. He

I wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve never

Cicely hadn’t shown up, who

the receiving end of

color. She had pondered this question before, but

to delve into it. She didn’t want to confront the

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

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

it up before. I’ve checked with the doctors about

optimistic, albeit a rough road ahead. I came here

ask

up, her voice

for him, was it truly out of

your life to save him, or was it just a ploy

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

my only desire was to

melancholic smile. “It’s different. The

expect my father to be

severe, would you still have stepped

her fork down and

answer are you

lips

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

didn’t expect you to brush

If I had died, what would be the point

true or not, that’s

play the villain in front

like

can’t, I need to find

had never seen Ray this composed yet so

on the blanket trembled slightly. She was afraid of Ray in this state.

no telling

to.

*

stepped out of the elevator on the ground

across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

furrowed imperceptibly when he

her purse slackened for a moment

smile

heavy. “You hate hospitals. What

Came to check on her with

silence, she glanced at

bullying a cripple, so don’t

not long after Cicely arrived at the

grasped what Seth was worried about.

your behalf to

been lately. She thought it might

faltered for a

scarf around her neck,

at the corners of

are volatile, and your presence might

even leading to harm.”

with a light smile. “I have

when I’m fully able and

she recovers,

ties with her.”

Cicely replied, hands tucked into the

braved

anger,

more she displayed it, the clearer Seth could

sarcasm and rebellion.

you had lunch?” Seth reached out to pull her closer,

just a week

Cicely stepped aside, avoiding his touch.

to join

a meal with

blunt rejection,

question floated into Seth’s ears, simple

brief pause, he looked

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

conclusion in

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

and pondered for a moment, her expression

at

“Alright.”

gates

sprawling manor, feeling an unexpected sense

dark green pines stood tall

vitality.

brows, and the already somewhat

She got out of the car and walked

was empty, with servants occasionally moving about in

seemed to be

rushed over at the sound of her arrival,

you give us

glanced upstairs, “Where’s

lunch not too long ago and was

he’s fallen asleep.”

he have for

some buckwheat

the stairs, turning to

step, “And what else?”

hesitated, “There were a couple

as she turned and headed straight

servants to bring out what Creighton had for

brownish buckwheat wraps remained, along

carrots

of ham and cheese.

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

you prepared for

servants were too frightened to reply, their heads lowered in

Brody said helplessly, “Sir has been preferring lighter

he specifically asked for these dishes. Even if we prepared more,

meals are quite simple. When

there’s no need to

knew Brody well enough not to doubt his words, but

was

the study, she found Creighton

on his chest, his head tilted,

and her

had but one master. That grand

a humble corner for

had married early, head over heels in love,

alone in the

herself deeply

wake Creighton, gently covering him with

out of the study.

from his nap and

something with the servants, his face lit up

little rascal, why didn’t you tell me

secrets to hide

glared at her. “You’re not

could there be so many

“He’s busy with work,

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

for dinner

“You’ll have to ask him. He listens

to me.”

talk

Creighton for the rest

playfully demanding take-backs that left Creighton

amused and exasperated.

squared off while she

occasionally chiming in with unsolicited

is golden; don’t meddle

afternoon was lively and bustling, and even the

The entire Ellis family seemed to have returned to how it

be.

Creighton inquired about

too busy to make it

you two

“Just hope for us to be alright, will

Creighton relented.

Cicely still sent Seth a message. [I’m

coming home tonight.]

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

away from home. After all, she couldn’t

anything amiss.

and she didn’t

up at the Ellis estate’s

and moved to assist Seth with his coat. “Why

message imply for

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

know.”

reason for

an invitation for

he had pulled her into his embrace and they

living

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

hard these past few days, have you

“Not yet.”

I’ll have the staff whip up

The dishes were all tailored

joining him for dinner, but as

of her father and

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

two aren’t

took a deep breath, “Just came out to grab

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

headed back to

Enter title…

seemed to have anticipated her return to dine

glance up at her. “If

Ellis family estate isn’t as cozy as our

water bottle, her expression nonchalant.

for

Seth’s brow as

set down

I not explain

very well. Now that you’ve explained

“I said I’m not fighting

wasting time over the same person or

a napkin, “So you’re

here just on a

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

on time. In fact, on

staying, but then I saw my

could use some company. Are these

not

was impassive, her lips curled in an almost imperceptible

coupled with her subtle

been placed on the question

noon.

he believe it? If

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

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

own home, nothing’s

sip from his water glass. “As you

was surprised by his easy

he disagreed today, it wouldn’t

to understand why he mentioned inconvenience and

such an easy compromise.

dinner, Seth joined Cicely’s father and grandfather in

to her what their conversation would be about—nothing

matters.

app for little home decor items –

and notebooks with pens. Not that

but she liked doodling

front door was knocked, the servant opened it to find Charlie,

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

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

middle of the

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

discussing matters. You can sit and

have an errand. Mr. Seth asked me to bring

I’ll be on my

looked up, turned around, and noticed

to Charlie. Brody, seeing this, quickly directed the

suitcase upstairs.

didn’t linger, bidding farewell and

servant brought up a glass of milk. After finishing her milk, Cicely

upstairs.

have to talk about for so

The servant had refilled their water

clothes and went to the bathroom where

It had been a while since she’d indulged

into the

a view of the garden

rotating ground lights. It seemed they

especially for her return.

she had asked her father to install

at them

over the edge of the bathtub, staring

against the edge of the tub, twisted a hot towel, and placed

over her eyes.

the water, soothing her fatigue. With the

She drifted in and

felt a sudden chill.

water felt the coolness, and she

her eyes, her hand was

up to see the man frowning at her

side of the tub.

to be the first to

by the man who had appeared

room had dissipated when he

feel cold.

be to blame.” Cicely tried to

he stood next to her and began to undress

frowned, “What are

continued without missing a beat, dropping his clothes into

one do in a

grabbed the towel beside the tub

Before she could leave, she was scooped up

and glared up at him. “Seth!

to do?”

at the woman in his arms, her face flushed from either

bath, more radiant than usual.

that was low

embarrassingly, “You should be able to

without drowning.”

softly. Compared to her

he preferred her current bold,

demeanor.

retort, he began to run

hair for

“No.”

the shower interrupted

before

Cicely, but Seth’s hand covered her eyes.

lacked principles, but that this

her anger before

an inch,

yanked away by

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

modesty she could.

shampoo into her hair with patience, massaging

to rinse it clean

her head lowered and eyes closed, Cicely considered that her taste in

merit. After all, there

fallen for this

he applied conditioner to her hair, he

he took a quick shower

with a cool expression, Cicely

planning to stay

there any reason

a trek from here to the

You insist on staying here. I can’t

will.”

of anger tinged Cicely’s

as he drew

is nothing compared to

better.”

can’t sleep

Seth’s gaze drifted leisurely over her

contours of her body.

imperceptibly, and he reached out to pull her

warm water from the shower cascading

to prevent water from flowing into

focused on his succinct and cryptic response,

something insistent pressing against her and

had already set the

his forehead against hers. “We should

voice tightened, “Let go. I can

we’re not going

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

and he moved with a familiarity that made

she’d scream out. She hit his shoulder

pain. “This is

you seemed not to mind. Though,

to keep it

was wrapped around his waist, and as the

her vision blurred until she

turning off the hairdryer and slipping her into pajamas, Seth placed her

away from him, her soft hair spreading

other side of the bed, facing her. As

away, his long arm scooped her

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

too exhausted to continue

*

The next day.

Cicely woke up, Seth was already gone. The patchy marks on her

ones added from

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

to it. Yet now, with her body covered

all too pleased.

up and slipping into her

Still groggy and listless, she

from their morning exercise and

Seeing Cicely, Creighton shook his head with a

should fix that habit of skipping

offered by the servant, sipped half of it,

“Sleeping in is the best

is bad for your health, and too much

the most important meal. Why are you still

you leave

irritation left Cicely speechless

to the office. Why

office, duh! Perfect timing with your holiday. You

of ending up clueless. What?

showing clear reluctance. “No, he probably

he

at passing

he really

that she genuinely didn’t know, Creighton dropped the

grandfather to see Danielle. You

come?”

curled her legs onto the couch, resting her elbow

of elegance and lazy

you’ll have lunch by

they were already leaving her to

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

hospital while

was incredibly inappropriate and

they were set to visit the hospital

scoffed silently. Anyone who dared say

have a

time for dinner. His timing was

eating, he headed upstairs first, while Cicely sat with Creighton and

living room before going up to her bedroom,

desk.

to the

quick shower, she emerged to

into bed to play with

Seth had

over, brushed her forehead with his hand, and

gentle peck on the lips. “I’m going

for

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

you up to?”

quirked with a hint of teasing, “What makes

rest tonight?”

mumbled, “Then what am I waiting

of things we have yet to talk

Cicely pushed him gently,

her, Seth’s body

with

gasping for air. She lifted her hands

whimper. It was only then that

on her, just barely.

kiss me to death?” she

with

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

Mrs. Diaz,” he

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

just inches from hers. A gentle

misunderstanding warrants a penalty for

me? Shouldn’t I consider

amused expression, yet

me any way

and seriously meeting

pretty confident, thinking that because I’m

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

beautifully curved jawline, “So,

give me a

raised an eyebrow and ran her

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

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

her smooth chin, “You like

hand moved

heard, love and hate are two extremes.

start,

Seth’s warm and smiling

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

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

the nerve, his dark eyes fixed on Cicely for a

faint smile. He let

shirt was already missing two buttons that Cicely

unfastened the rest.

let you off tonight. It’s still early,

“If you’re not obedient, I’ll have to

you up my way.”

had no desire to find out what his method of

Cicely was propped up in bed,

game. She glanced at

game.

into bed and snatched the phone from her

there something you need to

me at the

swiped and tapped on

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

do there?”

a little, you wouldn’t need

thing in

I have

little girl? Do you think your

picking on you

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

future, your only sure

family forever. If one

start eating

know where to cry. Don’t

around you

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

mine, isn’t it yours

truly in

makes you insecure? You

want to leave me one day

froze. Turning to her, his gazes were

sounds like you’re quite convinced

leaves a

beyond these two reasons, is

didn’t improve, and he

in their depths replaced

In fact,

why I harbor such uncomfortable

back, “I’ve downloaded some files

much as you can before sleep, and ask me about

understand tomorrow.”

the phone, the document app he

a blur of text. “What will you be

got out of bed, lifting the covers.

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

mood.”

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

understood all too well; it wasn’t about

a tantrum.

＊

study for two

looking worse

the lights had dimmed, leaving only a

woman sleeping with the phone in

reignited.

Heartless woman.

the phone from her hand

she hadn’t closed.

he’d opened for her

sleeping face

a rush to

aside, he

as he pulled her into

used to the man’s arms

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

a moment, Seth wanted to wake her

one sentence, she fell silent again, and

petty.

＊

wasn’t petty; the next morning, he woke Cicely with a kiss that

coffee. Even

Already prone to morning grumpiness, she

robbed of breath.

him hard a couple

mind?!”

a mischievous grin as he swung his legs out

off to

yanked the comforter over her

show your face.” Seth’s

Cicely didn’t budge.

me do this

the comforter off with a huff, sat up,

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

a pillow

the

over this, I’m not going

up the pillow, and

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

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

back to sleep.”

gritted her teeth in frustration. As Seth turned

a sly

aside and stomped off to

busy squeezing toothpaste onto

reflection in the mirror.

a subtle raise of his eyebrows, he shifted aside to

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

reflection.

aside.

back on her task, she started brushing. It

toothpaste.

smile

they headed to the Ellis Corporation

document from last night did

to know anything.

pages. So what am I supposed to do

just smiled and

office, Cicely understood why he hadn’t mentioned coming

had prepared a new desk and

immediate deployment.

on the computer; you can keep reading

face away, “Computers have

anticipate this excuse,

no matter

she moved to

pile of folders.

understand, and we can go over

will you be

to a C&P

“You’re leaving

there wolves in

focus on the reading; I’ll

mouth to retort

glanced at her before leaving the

a clear sign she was up to no good.

possibly stir up in the

left, Cicely did take the

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

and her

the office, returning after another half-hour to

through the drawers,

doodled on a black leather

phone and

desk and

Cicely sat there, the picture of a

student.

much did you get

a bit challenging since it’s new to me, so I’m on the

whole morning and you’re proud of

stung.

Diaz, the fact that I’m even sitting here is

approached his desk, noticing the black notebook she had

he found her doodles—a passable

written in a confident, flamboyant

flushed slightly, but quickly adopted

nonchalance.

lips and took a deep

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

tidied the documents away. Seth waited for an

hungry,” she declared as if

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

Come over here.”

No

clutched the files and approached him.

her into an embrace. “What the

said, leaning back with a

his grip tightened around her waist, his voice deep and

one taking liberties

“What do you mean?”

in the day, you’d concoct

and respectful. Now, you can’t even

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

is?”

“Respectful? That’s because

it’s intentional, Mr.

reeked of impunity, but Seth had no

like harboring intentions towards

current relationship, that would mean cheating, Mr.

Seth was momentarily speechless.

smiled,

it’s

back in his

his expression and

Cicely watched him—

was

by Charlie from a

to have no

“Aren’t you eating?”

out by the rhythmic

flat “Not hungry.” His mood was

entire office was suffused with the unmistakable vibe of

a big deal’.

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

a table laden with food, while

her way.

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

eyes and huffed, “Then

tonight.”

her with

and picked up

said we have to sleep

until you’re

face was stoic, “How long

attitude with me?”

played the innocent, “Isn’t it you who’s been

to

on her silverware tightened before relaxing.

to watch

and I’ll

Seth fell silent.

*

Ellis Corporation since

stayed in

wanted to slack off, but under Seth’s

various department heads for

progress reviews,

the Ellis family, even

her father, she couldn’t afford to be seen as

workday approached, Cicely

department leaders’ trembling, overly respectful

word. She hadn’t made much

hadn’t commented on it.

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

in a while.”

twitched, “I should probably let

need, I’ve already told

acknowledgment and moved to the door

claim Cicely wasn’t the least bit fazed about meeting

to it, Cicely knew

come. If Patty

to

wasn’t her biggest

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

door. She cozied up in the lounge

around Seth’s.

offered them some tea

Enter title…

and returned after a

He took a sip of warm

the ice. “Spit it

fascinating about my face?”d2

She’d always been told

ask him. But with him always buzzing around,

hadn’t even mentioned anything

strand of her hair, her

overheard General Manager from project

talking about this new mechanical

the old models.

The Ellis family has the know-how and the development rights.

Instead of bidding and choosing another manufacturer,

over to Diaz International? Given the

the Ellis family, why haven’t you

big fish like

project.

deal with the Ellis family’s offer

family picks Diaz International, the rest can just

kill for that

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

Watsons? Or is it just that you flat-out don’t

with the Ellis family?”

Corporation, I can say that the Harper

Watsons are all more fitting partners

family, are you suggesting I use my position

make things easier for

stance. “What’s

the bottom line is what counts. Why sweat the small

for you, I’ll

a half-smile.

to take the big deals, too proud for

of running Diaz International? Might as

That way, you wouldn’t have to worry about any

Hmm, that’s actually a

she thought about it,

his eyes but

her chin

if we actually go through with that? Assess the value of

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

and I’ll cut you in on a

How about

“What’s all this rigmarole for? Why the

in Diaz International?”

“Just occurred to me, if

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

You know, I’ve been thinking that

that gives me an edge over you. But

might just be it.”

gaze was meaningful and unfathomable as he watched her.

Diaz International. So what if

back on the sofa, with a

time to

lips tightened, clearly displeased

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

the Ellis

Diaz International ever do to tick you off?” The voice came

that belonged to none other

at her mug, then switched on

opposite her, her face a

wariness.

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

Ellis family ain’t too shabby,

to keep

scoff, “The future is the future. You

a heads-up, don’t even

International.”

arched an eyebrow, her eyes carrying

to speak further. If Patty wasn’t bringing it up,

up, his expression far from rosy.

go.”

glanced at Cicely, probably mindful

forcefully suppressing a multitude

dinner at the Diaz residence, but Cicely felt that

be the real way to

night was

the Ellis residence,

“Where are you off to

“Same as today.”

alone in the office again,

I’ll

rested her arm against the car

her slender finger.

was silent for a few seconds before slowly

“Should I prepare some new

you?”

head, “No need, I’ve got

Seth fell silent.

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

you today; they’ve been

I

said, “Well, bring them

indeed many packages. Cicely sat cross-legged in the

on a waterproof mat and started to slice

knife.

of them were small items –

unpacked them but also studied them. Her

manuals was many times more

when she read documents.

showered, he came down to find Cicely amidst

“Go freshen up; we’re

and handed him a white travel tumbler.

it—it had a notable heft, and engraved

with her name beneath. Beside her was a

of the items were

light.

made you think of buying

I

it

in the small

thing in the world. Seth didn’t say much

her to

seeing the white tumbler in the car,

contentedly.

the Ellis estate and setting the staff to work, Seth drove

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

they were much the same as

department heads yesterday.

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

knock on the door.

arms laden with parcels. “Ms. Cicely,

addressed to you.”

up at the sight,

she resumed her task

Seth returned to an office transformed. His desk now

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

couple of notebooks.

the corner mirrored his, albeit with a

cushion on the

had even appeared on the coffee

of

done nothing

for lunch

work did

hesitantly added a fourth,

on the computer,

bit of Cicely’s boredom—and

everything but work.

No surprise there.

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

she

closed the video.

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

today, spent the whole morning

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

drifted over the new objects on the desk, and

reward, I’ll take you out

office for a meal was music

*

stayed at the Ellis

staff for

over several days, and even if

affairs, she couldn’t help but be

was time

a hectic affair.

and C&P were arranged

the same day, at the same

The topfloor ballrooms were split between the Ellis Corporation and Diaz

the south, the other north, distinctly

was just below Diaz International’s—a floor

with the Ellis Corporation.

was dressed in a silver-gray, fitted cocktail

pair of silver high-heeled

as others, she still stood out

birth, Cicely seemed destined to make

were simple in

by her side was distractingly

for onlookers to look away. Cicely

had brought her to the Diaz International gala to make the rounds,

stage and deliver the expected pleasantries, to clink glasses and

whisking her away to the Ellis

Corporation gala was orchestrated by Seth’s people, but with

the spotlight

and Cicely’s arrival at the

well-wishes, almost like a

receiving

Cicely mused

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

taking care

her chin in her hand, Cicely teased with a mischievous

a lot of

“And

even curious to take a

snort, Seth retorted, “If your intentions weren’t so

have considered it.”

just want to admire the

one day I’ll bring them

personal viewing.”

serious about skipping the C&P gala.

low profile there, and even more so in

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

in its grip, was the envy of many. Naturally,

cozy up to

unwilling to waste time on those trying

ingratiate themselves with him.

a magnet for journalists, both

was deliberate, with plenty

long after, Charlie hurriedly arrived, lowering

got drunk at the C&P

commotion over at Diaz

brow furrowed, and his demeanor darkened. As he stood to leave,

his wrist,

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

before following Charlie out.

until he was out of sight, then

was slouched on

of hard

with a sneer, using the steps for support

to his feet

syllable

venom.

flashing

I’ve seen just how ruthless you can be.

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

family never provoked you; we were just in your

what the we

drama on the eve of their holiday

hung in the air, the implications

Seth’s tactics, about

Ray had once

had incensed him

against Ray .

that it had been

seemed to confirm

you are still a shareholder in

place immediately.” Seth

had surrendered their shares when Ray’s family had dispersed, except

a hospital stay, clung stubbornly to his

ten percent.

I know this isn’t my

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

the last of what I have, and I can’t tarnish

so tell me, wouldn’t it be fitting

International, let you

today?”

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

what makes you think

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

replaced the drunken stupor in

if he might lunge at Seth

vengeful fury.

onto the table next to Seth

sending sharp shards scattering

sound of the breaking glass pierced

silk, causing Cicely’s heart to skip a

high heels a clumsy match for her

the bottle at Seth, Cicely’s

color, and she let out a breathless shout. Disregarding her

pulling Seth’s arm and embracing

circle

to Seth, her body shielding

onto Seth’s hand, and the

arms seemed about to fall out of his

moment.

collective gasp reverberated throughout the banquet

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

blood on his

stood out, and his face, usually cool and

bloodied sword blade, seething with a murderous

glared at Ray.

Cicely’s

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

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

tall.

fierce gaze softened as it landed on her

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

not thinking straight. Have you had too

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

you?!”

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

clear tremble.

look seemed to stem from the physical reaction to

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

anger, or

gripped his heart as he surveyed her injuries,

clear cut on her right

else are you

her lip, and tears

feeling of unfamiliar panic and restlessness swirled within Seth.

low voice, “Talk to

to crumble under Seth’s

indignation, fear—all converged and broke down

her face. “My… my ankle hurts,”

in her last desperate lunge to save

with a grimace, bent down to scoop

his arms.

to the ground by Charlie, who had pinned

with a knee on his back,

right beside Seth and

him a moment’s hesitation. In that

broken bottle had swung

he acted swiftly, Cicely had been

carried Cicely away, Ray, pinned

only shout at Seth’s retreating figure with red-rimmed

so damn arrogant. One day, you’ll

done!”

didn’t falter in

*

Erik and Creighton rushed to the hospital in

frenzy.

diagnosis: a sprained ankle and a

shallow, but not too

been treated, her

were red and swollen

she greeted them with

“Dad.”

phone call and

station for the time being. Seth gave a

their concern for

which he

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

year, this

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

listen and

shot her a glare. “Am I

Enter title…

hurts now, and it’ll still hurt if you

the pain stop, then go

stop,” he said, cutting himself

his words were stuffed back down his throat.

a lifetime, could he not see through her

somewhat disheveled but

at the gala when she had unexpectedly

shield him

Totally unexpected.

anger now took on a

he could process these swirling emotions, the doctor’s

Seth listened intently to the

red eyes and

as could be, then she lifted her arms and wrapped

under her knees, lifting her from

a slight sense of peace to the two old

watching.

drove Cicely and Seth back to the Ellis

and returning to the

never mentioned

Seth stayed at the Ellis

Cicely company.

using the restroom, washing up – any time Cicely needed to move,

her, never leaving her side. Apart

Seth was impeccable

complaint-free actions were

Cicely from the bathroom to the bed where the

waiting.

bandaging process, despite the doctor’s caution, some

A slight shift in pressure and Cicely would wince. This was

beside her, who

tense as a surgical

Ellis residence, any sitting with Creighton that lasted more than

inevitably turned to business

in her room,

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

most of their

about the mechanical manufacturing issues of the

family.

had postponed the deal which should have been settled before

year to

asked Seth if Diaz International was interested in

same as it had been

However, Creighton didn’t dwell on this

on to other matters.

interested in company affairs, she found

and being able to look up

arrived at the Ellis residence just before the new year.

been injured protecting Seth, Patty

on airs at this time. But Patty’s

than on previous

a lavish dinner for her. She didn’t

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

back to the Diaz family for

Patty’s mood

but since they were legally

appropriate

for a moment, glanced at the young couple,

somewhat absent-mindedly.

noticing Creighton’s reaction, suddenly felt

when she was not at home, the vastness of the Ellis residence

to spend a few days, the

festive gatherings, would leave him

*

the New Yearr’s Eve, Seth took Cicely back to

residence.

left with them to pick

and Creighton agreed that leaving Danielle alone in the hospital

negotiating with

bring

didn’t comment. However, the image of two old people

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

up, serving as company

the thought of Danielle’s haughty, perpetually

might be

bustling since yesterday, and

for the New Year’s Eve dinner,

sumptuous feast knowing Miss

at the hospital. And Cicely, arriving

Danielle, who should have been

Her face immediately

chatting happily with Danielle. When she saw

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

smiling.

wheelchair, also had a

two. A shadow crossed her face, but

back.” The way she said that made it sound like Cicely was

are you doing here?” Seth

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

storm.

her lip, hands clasped

her here. We couldn’t leave her

holidays, could we?”

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

not to let her

dad who applied for her discharge. If anyone was

the Ellis family. You stay here for

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

ashamed?”

turned even more mortified after that brief,

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

contain her fury. “The guest I invite is

got herself

wrong with inviting her over for

care of her every single

into a sneer. “By that logic, any woman who

and play

the Ellis family’s

with anger, and she whirled

at Cicely. “This is

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

her?”

her brows. “Patty, don’t take

who’s making him feel

“You…”

deep voice cut

which had been light and smiling, settled on a glass

quietly awaited Seth’s

brought you here to celebrate, not to

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