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.

you know. Getting

for life, Seth and I will

Enter title…

at her coldly and then let out a mocking

If I really am disabled for life, you’ll never be

off.”d2

she looked

smile. “How

you wish for a life of disability, the Ellis

Seth. Even blood

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

How patient do you think he’ll

day out? Or rather, do you think Seth

someone disabled?”

violently as she glared at Cicely. Each word

to her most vulnerable

for a second that you’re off

even dream of running away. You were so

you die, I will dig you up from your grave and

if you get better soon, you might

don’t blame me for bullying

Danielle eyed the neatly laid out food before her.

but Cicely’s icy, detached voice rang out

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

until you’re willing to

annoying.”

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

Cicely would win.

appetite. Please, leave

the nurse standing by. “Keep an eye on

she eats or

“Understood.”

took a

look at her again, turning towards the

could take two steps, the door swung open

paused, her expression darkening as the man

brought a surge of intense

who had just returned from the restroom, rushed in, positioning

front of Cicely.

furrowed her brows

opened the door. She reached out and

feeling

his teeth clenched as he glared

mixed with rage.

you think you’re misdirecting your

who nearly took advantage of me that night when you

score yet, and here you are looking as

castrated you myself.”

hit Ray

never told you

night?”

slightly, “Does what he say negate the fact that

raped me?”

faint smile, she

genuinely regret it. Let’s put our

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

mess, not anyone else’s doing. Ms. Danielle is the

Let’s not make her situation any

to the exchange,

briefly to Danielle, his expression

course, I know Danielle

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

cleared up, I’ll

shielded Cicely as they left the

can’t hold him

I didn’t let him

in her hands until

brought back the chaos of

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

shudder.

“Miss?”

memories, “It seems Mr. Ray

rich playboy, surrounded by a constant stream

proclaiming true feelings

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

perhaps. With his family on the

charade for Danielle. It’s clear she means a lot

accident was orchestrated by his family for her

at

Danielle so much he’d nearly get her

*

by Danielle’s bed.

sorry, I had no idea it would turn out

Ray any more

her fork clumsily, she shoveled food into her mouth

indifference.

of

from her

now, and your family is

was at least a chance for a comeback, but

blown it for good.”

were clenched so tight his knuckles

“He orchestrated the downfall of my

you not to be fooled by

what you can imagine. My dad

agency, he had his sights set on bringing us

fledgling talent agency, run by a guy

to make everyone

delivered a fatal blow. He played

I wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve

for you, and if Cicely hadn’t shown up,

at the receiving end of my

drained of color. She had pondered this

too afraid to delve into it. She didn’t want

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

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

checked with the doctors about

optimistic, albeit a rough road ahead. I came here

to ask you

still didn’t look up, her

for him, was it truly

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

and finally turned to look at Ray.

only desire was to win him

smile. “It’s different.

expect my father to be so obstinate. If you knew the

severe, would you still have stepped

long silence, Danielle set her fork

are

his lips together. “You should

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

“I didn’t expect you to brush

If I had died, what would be the point of

true or not,

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

like denying everything I’ve ever felt. If I

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

had never seen Ray this composed yet so obsessively insane.

trembled slightly. She was

telling what

to.

*

and Issac stepped out of the elevator on the ground floor, only to

across the

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

imperceptibly when he saw

grip on her purse slackened for a moment then tightened. She

a familiar, faint smile on

gaze was heavy. “You hate hospitals.

had another episode. Came to check on her with

a brief silence, she glanced

bullying a

Cicely arrived at

what Seth was worried

your behalf to check on Miss Danielle,

it might

faltered for

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

the corners of her eyes and lips was

moods are volatile, and your

even leading to harm.”

a light smile. “I have Issac with me. Do you think

me when I’m fully able and

she recovers, the sooner I can

ties with her.”

replied, hands tucked into

why I braved the disgust and

anger, just a

it, the clearer Seth could

sarcasm and rebellion.

Seth reached out to pull

just

stepped aside, avoiding his touch. “Whether

have the time to join

a meal with you

blunt rejection, Seth’s complexion

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

pause, he looked

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

conclusion in her

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

car and pondered

visit Dad at

“Alright.”

the car rolled through the gates of the Ellis family

the window at the sprawling manor, feeling an unexpected

The dark green pines stood tall but failed

vitality.

and the already

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

was empty, with servants occasionally moving about in

seemed to be cautious. “Miss,

rushed over at the sound of her arrival, a look

give us a heads

upstairs,

not too long ago and was reading in

he’s fallen asleep.”

he have for

made some buckwheat

ascent up the stairs, turning to look

step, “And what else?”

hesitated, “There were a couple of

as she turned and

she ordered the servants to bring out what Creighton

brownish buckwheat wraps remained, along with two

a light salad of carrots and celery, the other

of ham and cheese.

of a nearby chair, she lifted

prepared for my father’s

servants were too frightened to reply,

has been preferring

asked for these dishes. Even if we prepared more,

Elderly folks’ meals are quite simple. When you’re

says there’s no need to

not to doubt his words, but in

dining table was always a feast of

found Creighton

book resting on his chest, his head

hit Cicely, and

master. That grand

humble corner for his simple

early, head over heels in love, insisting on living

father alone in the

herself deeply in her

gently covering him with a blanket

out of the study.

from his nap and

with the servants, his face lit up with an

little rascal, why didn’t you tell me you

to

her. “You’re not fighting with Seth

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

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

all the home-cooked meals. Dad, how about

for dinner

to ask him. He listens to you more

to me.”

I’ll talk to

stayed glued to Creighton for the rest of the afternoon. She badgered

her chess, playfully demanding

amused and exasperated.

squared off while she

in

“Silence is golden;

afternoon was lively and bustling, and even the servants

family seemed to have returned to how it

be.

dinner, Creighton

was too busy to make it back. Creighton frowned, giving her

you two

exasperated, “Just hope for us to be

Creighton relented.

sent Seth a message.

coming home tonight.]

to create a dramatic runaway scenario with Seth, spending

she

anything amiss.

didn’t reply, and she didn’t wait up

at the

and moved to assist Seth with

imply for

voice neutral,

know.”

for a

an invitation for us to stay

he had pulled her into

living

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

past few days, have you eaten

“Not yet.”

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

dishes were all tailored

on joining him for dinner, but as she stepped out, she

of her father and Seth in the

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

in, “You two

deep breath, “Just came out to

her way over to the coffee table, bending down

headed back to

Enter title…

have anticipated her return to dine with

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

estate isn’t as cozy

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

for

Seth’s brow

set down

not explain myself

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

“I said I’m not fighting

over the

mouth with a napkin,

here just on a

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

but you’re short on time. In fact, on my way back today, I

saw my dad and

for me, but he could use

prove I’m not fighting with

face was impassive, her lips curled in

last part, coupled with her subtle

on the question she had

noon.

it? If not, she would prove

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

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

home, nothing’s

casually took a sip from his water glass. “As

surprised by his easy acquiescence, but

disagreed today, it

came to understand why he

such an easy compromise.

father and grandfather in the study. It

conversation would be

matters.

browsed her shopping app for little home decor

and notebooks with pens. Not that she

liked

was knocked, the servant opened it

inside. “Ms. Cicely, good

him, “How heartless, sending you out in such cold weather,

middle of the night no

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

matters. You can sit and wait

an errand.

be on my way

turned around, and noticed a gray suitcase

seeing this, quickly directed

suitcase upstairs.

linger, bidding farewell and

up a glass of milk. After finishing

upstairs.

talk about for

The servant had refilled their

and went to

a while since

into the

view of

lights. It seemed

especially for her return.

had asked her

the years, glimpsing at them had become a habit during her

of the bathtub, staring at that place for a

the edge of the tub, twisted a hot

over her eyes.

dripped into the water,

she didn’t move again. She drifted in

felt a sudden chill.

felt the coolness, and she instinctively slid

she reached to remove the towel from her eyes, her hand was caught midair, and

and she looked up to see the man frowning at her from

side of the tub.

first to drown

was by the man who had

the room had dissipated

feel cold.

guess who’d be to blame.” Cicely tried

stood next to her and began to undress in

frowned, “What

without missing a beat,

does one do in

the tub to cover herself, and

she

glared up at him.

to do?”

down at the woman in his arms, her face flushed

bath, more radiant than usual. He smirked, planting a soft peck

was low and enticing. “Share

indignation deflated embarrassingly, “You should be

without drowning.”

softly. Compared to her

he preferred her

demeanor.

began to run his fingers through

hair for

“No.”

of the shower

for her consent before turning on the shower.

in Cicely, but Seth’s hand covered her eyes. “Close your

principles, but that this man had a hundred ways

her anger before it even took

still, not moving an inch, as

away by

felt awkward, her arms crossing in front of

modesty she could.

into her hair with patience, massaging her scalp

his chest to

eyes closed, Cicely considered that her taste

merit. After all, there were

fallen for

to her hair, he

a

cool expression, Cicely asked,

Are you planning to

any reason I

quite a trek from here to the

on staying here. I can’t

will.”

of anger tinged Cicely’s

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

compared to spending a

better.”

sleep by

gaze drifted leisurely

contours of her body.

imperceptibly, and he reached out to pull

the

to prevent water from flowing into them,

succinct and cryptic response, which left

pressing against her and

had already set the showerhead aside, his hand on

forehead against hers. “We should get out

“Let go.

we’re not going out

closed over

a familiarity that made it all

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

“This is

convenient, but you seemed not to mind. Though,

to keep it down

was wrapped around his waist, and

she

hairdryer and slipping her into pajamas,

him, her soft hair spreading across

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

turn away, his long arm

he’d only persist if she tried

too exhausted to

*

The next day.

was already gone. The

ones added from

so he seemed. Any

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

all too pleased.

up and slipping into her

and listless, she

morning exercise and were already

Cicely, Creighton shook his head with a mix of

really should fix that

the servant, sipped half of it, and slumped

“Sleeping in is the best part

bad for your health, and too much

most important meal. Why are you

didn’t you leave with

irritation left Cicely speechless for

office. Why

Perfect timing with your holiday. You could

of ending up

frowned, her face showing clear

he didn’t mention

quite good at

really didn’t tell

know, Creighton

with your grandfather to see Danielle.

come?”

onto the

of elegance and

have lunch by

had just returned, and they were already leaving her to

Danielle’s name had come up several

leaving her alone in the hospital while the rest of

incredibly inappropriate and heartless. After

they were set to visit

scoffed silently. Anyone who dared say the Ellis family was

have a

for dinner. His timing

headed upstairs first, while

room before going up to her bedroom, where Seth was

desk.

a word, she went to the

quick shower, she emerged to find Seth

climbed into bed to

seemed like Seth had

on the bed, walked over, brushed her

her a gentle peck on the lips. “I’m going to shower. Don’t fall

Wait for me,

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

you up to?”

quirked with a hint of teasing, “What makes you think I

rest tonight?”

mumbled, “Then what am

chuckled, “Mrs. Diaz, there are plenty of things we have yet

gently,

of being pushed away by her,

penetrating with

gasping for air. She lifted

a soft whimper. It was only then

on her, just barely.

to kiss me to death?” she managed

guard with their unintentional cuteness, and a

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

Mrs. Diaz,” he said with a playful

bit of sweet punishment.” “Misunderstood?” Cicely’s drowsy

from hers. A gentle smile tinged

misunderstanding warrants a penalty

misunderstand me? Shouldn’t I

held the same amused expression, yet

Punish me any way

head, calmly and

that because I’m so

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

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

heart to give me

ran her hand

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

in her eyes, Seth felt a subtle

caressing her smooth chin, “You like

moved from his

you ever heard, love and

someone at the start, the more they

and smiling eyes, but Cicely’s gaze

eyes and brows soft with

will. I

the nerve, his dark eyes fixed on Cicely

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

already missing two buttons that Cicely had

unfastened the rest.

still early, so be good and wait

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

you up my way.”

no desire to find out what

shower, Cicely was propped

glanced at him, then

game.

the phone from her hands.

strongly, “Is there something

me at

and tapped on

anything about business,

do there?”

you wouldn’t need

thing in the

I have

think your dad

on you

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

in the future, your only sure bet is the

Ellis family forever. If one day, shareholders

of a weak moment and start eating

you won’t even know where to cry. Don’t

around you is harmlessly

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

when truly in your

“What makes you insecure? You

leave you? Or maybe you want to

Turning to her, his gazes were

like you’re quite convinced

leaves a

But beyond these two

improve, and he didn’t

in their depths replaced by a shallow

to assume. In fact, instead of you being

why I harbor such

“I’ve downloaded some

can before sleep, and ask me about

understand tomorrow.”

the document app he had just downloaded

text. “What will you

at her, then got out of bed, lifting the covers. “I’m not

need to reflect. Naturally, I

mood.”

grab a coat, and walk

too well; it wasn’t about reflection.

a tantrum.

＊

his study for two hours.

looking worse than

lights had

Seeing the woman sleeping with the phone in

reignited.

Heartless woman.

slid into bed, taking the phone from her hand and glanced at

she hadn’t closed.

opened for her

face and

a rush to find

aside, he watched the

cold as he

the man’s arms and scent, shifted comfortably against

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

to wake her up, maybe keep her up

sentence, she fell silent again, and any further

petty.

＊

petty; the next morning, he woke Cicely with

of strong coffee. Even for school, Cicely rarely awoke

prone to morning grumpiness, she was even more irate

robbed of breath.

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

mind?!”

a mischievous grin as he swung his

shine, off to

am not going.” Cicely yanked

face.” Seth’s voice carried a

Cicely didn’t budge.

gonna make me do this the hard

Cicely flung the comforter off

strength could she muster just out

pillow at

by, and the pillow

this, I’m not going to

pillow, and placed it back on the

see you up by the time I’m out,

If you don’t want me to wake you up for the second time, then

back to sleep.”

frustration. As Seth turned away, the

into a sly

threw the covers aside and stomped off to

busy squeezing toothpaste onto his brush. He watched

reflection in the mirror.

a subtle raise of his eyebrows, he shifted aside to give

brush, and Seth, as if on cue, applied

glanced at their reflection. Seth nonchalantly

aside.

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

toothpaste. The frothy white bubbles

smile

breakfast, they headed to the Ellis

last night did you

to know anything.

So what am I

just smiled

why he hadn’t mentioned coming

He had prepared a new desk and chair in the corner, waiting for

immediate deployment.

the computer;

turned her face

anticipate this excuse,

no matter what

it. Reluctantly, she moved to the

pile of folders.

understand, and we can go over it

you

to a C&P

“You’re leaving

wolves in

reading; I’ll

opened her mouth to retort but held

glanced at her before leaving

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

she possibly stir up in

Seth left, Cicely did take the documents seriously

marks with her pen, but within half an hour,

her

the office, returning after

She rummaged through the drawers, fiddled with the

a black leather notebook she found

played with her phone and

desk and the

promised, Seth returned before noon. Cicely

student.

much did you get

it’s new to me, so I’m on the

whole morning

stung.

fact that I’m

his desk, noticing the black notebook

her doodles—a passable cartoon portrait,

a

flushed slightly, but

nonchalance.

his lips and took a deep breath,

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

tidied the documents away.

hungry,” she declared as

of his nose and sank into his chair. “Lunch

Come over here.”

prepared? No complaints

the files and approached him. Before she

into an embrace. “What the heck, Seth?

said, leaning

tightened around her waist, his voice deep and serious,

one taking liberties

“What do you mean?”

you’d concoct all kinds of schemes to

and respectful. Now, you

and this half-hearted attitude.

is?”

arched an eyebrow, “Respectful? That’s

and it’s intentional, Mr.

admission reeked of impunity, but Seth had no

harboring

that would mean cheating, Mr.

Seth was momentarily speechless.

feeling victorious, smiled, “What’s

it’s to your

and leaned back in his chair, turning to

his expression

Cicely watched him—

was

fetched by Charlie from a

have no

“Aren’t you eating?”

response was drowned out by the rhythmic clacking of

flat “Not hungry.” His mood was as frosty as

was suffused with the unmistakable vibe of

a big deal’.

eat all this by myself?”

food, while he didn’t even bother

her way.

it, leave it. Nobody said you had

eyes and huffed, “Then I guess you’ll be sleeping

tonight.”

at her with

settled onto the couch and picked up the elegantly

to sleep

until

long are you planning to keep

attitude with me?”

played the innocent, “Isn’t it

want to

on her silverware tightened before relaxing.

continued to watch

with me, and I’ll

Seth fell silent.

*

had been at the Ellis Corporation

stayed in

under Seth’s watchful eye, that

department heads for updates on all

reports and progress reviews, the

the Ellis family, even if it

she couldn’t afford to be seen as slacking

the end of the workday approached, Cicely

trembling, overly respectful demeanors and

made much progress with the

hadn’t commented on it.

for a bit. Mom’s shopping nearby, and

in a while.”

brow twitched, “I should probably let

I’ve already told

acknowledgment and moved to the

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

to it, Cicely knew she had

come. If Patty was in a good mood,

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

wasn’t her

naturally, Cicely wasn’t about to freeze

the door. She cozied up in the

around Seth’s.

receptionist quickly offered them some

Enter title…

and returned after

sip of warm

minutes of silence, Seth broke the

fascinating about my face?”d2

always been told if she didn’t understand

him always buzzing around,

even mentioned anything about

of her hair, her

nonchalantly, “I overheard General Manager from project

talking about this new mechanical equipment upgrade

off the old models. We

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

point. Instead of bidding

over to Diaz International? Given the ties between

family, why haven’t you

“The big fish

project. Diaz

with the Ellis family’s offer just

Diaz

Seth, so many would kill for

do you just chicken out when

the Watsons? Or is it just that you flat-out

with the Ellis family?”

head of the Ellis Corporation, I

the Watsons are all more fitting partners

Ellis family, are you suggesting I

make things

by his stance. “What’s wrong

is what counts. Why sweat

pride for you,

twitched into a half-smile.

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

the point of running Diaz International? Might

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

that’s actually

thought about it, the more feasible it

eyes but

her chin in her hands and smiled

we actually go through with that? Assess the

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

cut you in on a slice of the

shares. How about

her coolly. “What’s all this

in Diaz International?”

“Just occurred to me,

mother, it’s probably

father. You know, I’ve been thinking

an edge

might just be it.”

and unfathomable as

International. So what

the sofa, with a carefree smile on her

time to let

clearly

thinly.

International under the Ellis family banner the best

do to tick you off?” The voice

Cicely, a familiar tone that belonged to

then switched on her charm as she stood

standing opposite her, her face a stormy

wariness.

Then I figured

family ain’t too shabby,

need to keep

a scoff, “The future is the future.

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

International.”

eyes carrying

Patty wasn’t bringing it up,

Seth had already stood up, his expression

go.”

probably mindful of Seth’s

as if forcefully suppressing

at the Diaz residence, but Cicely felt that

dining with Patty might be the real

night was out of the

back to the Ellis residence, Seth took the wheel while

you off to

“Same as today.”

in the

I’ll

her arm against the car window, twirling

her slender finger.

silent for a few seconds before slowly speaking,

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

you?”

“No need, I’ve got my

Seth fell silent.

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

today; they’ve been temporarily stored

open them now, I can

and said,

Cicely sat cross-legged in the

a waterproof mat and started to slice open the parcels with a

knife.

–

but also

times more focused and

when she read documents.

Seth showered, he came down to find

up; we’re up early

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

a notable heft, and engraved on it was

her was a matching black one,

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

light.

you think

after coming back this time did I realize there are

and it feels

still engrossed in the small items,

thing in the

urged her to get some

white tumbler in the

contentedly.

estate and setting the

still scattered,

much the same as what

department heads yesterday.

aside, paced

knock on the door.

with parcels. “Ms. Cicely, these parcels, they’re

addressed to you.”

at the sight, “Put them on the

chair, she resumed her task with

an office

pen holder, several stylographs, a fresh

couple of notebooks.

in the corner mirrored his, albeit with a simpler

a cushion on the

had even

to question the wisdom of leaving her

as though she’d done nothing out of

“What’s for

work did you get

hesitantly added a fourth, “Four

on the computer, bringing up a video of

bit of Cicely’s boredom—and her interest

everything but work.

No surprise there.

unaware of

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

closed the video.

screen full of text. Seth looked at

today, spent the whole

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

objects on

take you

the office for a

*

afternoon, Seth stayed at the Ellis Corporation,

staff for reports and

routine stretched over several days, and even if Cicely wasn’t eager

about company affairs, she couldn’t

time

a hectic affair.

Diaz International, and C&P were arranged

at the

sky bridges. The topfloor

south, the

Diaz International’s—a

with the Ellis Corporation.

dressed in a silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress with the

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

she still stood out as the most eyecatching in the

Cicely seemed

clothes were simple in design,

side was distractingly handsome, a sight

look away. Cicely had everything people

had brought her to the Diaz International gala

and deliver the expected pleasantries, to

away to the

orchestrated by Seth’s people,

present, the spotlight

the Ellis Corporation gala, they were met

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

receiving blessings and

seats, Cicely mused aloud,

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

taking care of it,” Seth

chin in her hand, Cicely teased with a mischievous smile,

lot of celebrity beauties

“And plenty

even curious to take a

Seth retorted, “If your intentions

have considered it.”

to

day I’ll bring them all to you

personal viewing.”

seemed serious about skipping the C&P gala. Cicely

to keep a low profile there,

whole. C&P, after its grand slam start

envy of many.

up to Seth

man, unwilling

ingratiate themselves with him.

gala was a magnet for journalists,

from the C&P event was

not long after, Charlie

got drunk at the

a commotion over

his demeanor darkened. As

wrist,

back soon,” he said, squeezing her shoulder

before following Charlie out.

was out of sight, then

gala, Ray was slouched

bottle of hard

greeted Seth with a sneer, using the steps for

feet and approached

slurred, emphasizing each syllable

venom.

flashing a thumbs-up at

play hardball. I’ve seen just how ruthless

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

you; we

what the we had, you seized

such drama on the eve

words hung in the air, the implications clear to

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

a whim because Ray had once made an indecent pass at

this had incensed him enough

against Ray .

some speculated that it had been a premeditated strike.

to confirm the

in your family business, my suggestion

place

their shares when Ray’s family had

from a hospital stay,

ten percent.

bitter, “Rest assured, I know this

International event. I can’t do

have, and I

so tell me, wouldn’t it be

from you and ruined Diaz International, let you taste the

today?”

Ray with icy detachment, “If

makes you think you can destroy

to strip away the last

drunken stupor in

and he looked as if he might

vengeful fury.

whiskey onto the

shards scattering across

of the breaking glass pierced through

heart to skip a beat. Instinctively, her

heels a clumsy match for her urgency.

of the

and she let out a

Seth’s

half a circle to avoid the

Seth, her body shielding

red blood fell onto Seth’s hand, and the

arms seemed about to fall out of his

moment.

reverberated throughout the banquet

who hadn’t expected Cicely to intervene, felt a

on his

his arm stood out, and his face,

bloodied sword blade, seething with a murderous aura as

glared at Ray.

shot through Cicely’s arm and

anger, she gripped his

pain. “Seth,” she managed

tall.

softened as it landed on her

slapped him. Stunned, he looked

Have

think provoking him will do you now? What if he

you?!”

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

clear tremble.

to stem from the physical reaction

made it clear to him—she was crying,

fear, anger,

constricting pain gripped his heart

on a clear cut on her right arm. He

dark. “Where else are you

bit her lip, and

and restlessness swirled within Seth. He growled

voice,

self-control seemed to crumble under Seth’s

indignation, fear—all converged and broke down silently,

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

her

her high heels and, with a

his arms.

Ray had been tackled to the

with a knee on his back,

and was quick

had caused him

bottle had

he acted swiftly, Cicely had been

Ray, pinned down by Charlie

shout at Seth’s retreating figure with

so damn arrogant. One day, you’ll pay

done!”

falter in

*

hearing of Cicely’s injuries, Erik and Creighton rushed

frenzy.

ankle and

too shallow, but not

been treated, her wounds bandaged,

were red and swollen

she greeted them with a tearful “Grandpa”

“Dad.”

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

time being. Seth gave a brief nod to the Erik and

concern

mask his concern, which he channeled

never known a day of hardship

new year, this happens! Seth,

not his

and followed

“Am I not allowed

Enter title…

and it’ll still hurt

pain stop, then go

stop,” he said, cutting himself off mid-sentence. She

all his words were stuffed back down

could he not see

Cicely, her hair somewhat disheveled but still beautiful,

the moment at the gala when she had unexpectedly run

shield him with her

Totally unexpected.

and anger now took on a new definition upon

these swirling

to the

saw Cicely with red eyes and pursed lips,

she lifted her arms

hands passed under her knees,

brought a slight sense of peace to the two old

watching.

drove Cicely and Seth back to

returning to the Ellis residence was the

never mentioned

after the gala, Seth stayed at the

Cicely company.

restroom, washing up – any time Cicely needed

carry her, never leaving her

impeccable in

actions were

bathroom to the

waiting.

the bandaging process, despite the

slight shift in pressure and

the man beside her, who seemed to make

as tense

sitting with Creighton that lasted

inevitably turned to business

and bored in her room, insisted Seth take her with

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

most

the mechanical

family.

which

to after

if Diaz International was interested in

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

didn’t dwell

on to other matters.

in company

and being able to

just before the new year.

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

put on airs at this time. But Patty’s complexion

than on previous

Ellis family prepared a lavish dinner for her. She didn’t

dinner table, she brought up the

to bring Cicely back to the Diaz family for

surprised, as Patty’s mood

since they were legally married,

appropriate and normal thing to

glanced at the young couple,

somewhat absent-mindedly.

suddenly felt a

home, the vastness

returned to spend a

for festive gatherings, would leave him

*

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

residence.

with them to pick up Danielle

Danielle alone in the hospital over

too heartless. After negotiating with

bring

the image of two

feels sad

of Danielle might liven things up, serving as

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

it might be better off without

bustling since yesterday,

home for the New Year’s

feast knowing Miss Danielle would

didn’t find anyone at the hospital. And Cicely, arriving at

should have

face immediately

happily with Danielle. When she

the room, her expression paused for a

smiling.

also had

but she brushed it

she said that made it sound like Cicely was

are you doing here?” Seth asked,

voice was as flat as

storm.

lip, hands clasped tightly, not saying

here. We couldn’t leave her

holidays, could we?”

felt a surge of anger rising in her

not to let her

her discharge. If anyone was going

the Ellis family. You

is being polite, but don’t you

ashamed?”

more mortified after that brief,

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

was barely able to contain her

here. Danielle got herself injured saving Seth’s

can never repay. What’s wrong with

taking care of her

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

stage an accident and play the damsel

the Ellis family’s dinners even

anger, and she

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

desperate for a mother figure that you have to bring home

her?”

her brows. “Patty, don’t take your

you who’s making him feel

“You…”

Seth’s deep voice

and smiling, settled

quietly awaited Seth’s next

celebrate, not

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

Comments ()

0/255