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.

know. Getting

Seth and I will be driven to

Enter title…

and then let out a

am disabled for

off.”d2

flickered slightly as she looked at

gave a faint smile. “How shameless are you

even if you wish for a life of disability,

Seth. Even blood

do you think you

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

Or rather, do you

someone disabled?”

trembled violently as she glared at Cicely.

her

a second that you’re off the

away. You were

die, I will dig you up from your grave

get better soon, you might

blame me for bullying

eyed the neatly laid out food before her. Her

Cicely’s icy, detached voice rang

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

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

annoying.”

lift, it froze in place. To eat or not

Cicely would win.

my appetite. Please,

looked up at the nurse standing by. “Keep an eye on her. Let me

she eats

“Understood.”

took a

turning

take two steps, the door swung

darkening as the man who entered

Ray. The sight of Cicely brought a surge of

returned from the

front of Cicely.

behind Issac, furrowed her brows

opened the door. She reached

Ray, feeling any

face stiffened, his teeth clenched as he glared

mixed with rage.

don’t you

of me that night when you were

settle that score yet, and here you are looking

castrated you myself.”

words hit Ray

never told you what really happened

night?”

“Does what he say

raped me?”

with a faint smile, she added,

genuinely regret it. Let’s put our grievances aside

Mr. Ray, get your facts straight. It was your

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

dependent. Let’s not make her situation any

the exchange,

to Danielle, his expression flustered, “I’m here to visit, not

trouble. Of course, I know Danielle is the biggest

a smile, “Then I

cleared up, I’ll take my

they left the hospital room. “Ray wasn’t

him accountable. He’s been hospitalized here.

yesterday, but I didn’t

in her hands until

the chaos of that night, the

vivid and terrifying that even

shudder.

“Miss?”

seems Mr. Ray is quite

been skeptical. A rich playboy, surrounded by a

suddenly proclaiming true feelings for one seemed far-fetched.

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

family on the

this charade for Danielle. It’s clear she

was orchestrated by his family for

at the

he’d nearly get her killed? That seemed a

*

hospital room, Ray stood by Danielle’s bed. His

guilt. “I’m sorry, I had

wasn’t in the mood to give Ray any more attention than she had

fork clumsily, she shoveled food into her

indifference.

a dog-eat-dog world. Regardless of the tactics

said, not looking up from her plate.

and your family is on

for a comeback, but

blown it for good.”

tight his

on his forehead. “He orchestrated the downfall

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

what you can imagine. My dad said the moment

his

a guy who hasn’t graduated from college

these things to make everyone

blow. He played innocent but was

That night, I wasn’t simply

Cicely hadn’t shown up, who do you think would

receiving

of color. She had

She didn’t

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

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

before. I’ve checked with the doctors about your condition, and

ahead. I came

ask you

her voice

for him, was it truly

your life to save him, or was it just

and finally turned to look at Ray.

only desire was to win him

smile. “It’s different. The

father to be

you still have

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

are

lips together.

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

“I didn’t expect you

I had died, what would

nodded slightly. “Whether true or not,

play the villain in front of me

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

I need to

seen Ray this composed yet so obsessively insane.

the blanket trembled slightly. She was afraid of

there was no telling

to.

*

out of the elevator on the ground floor, only to

across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

imperceptibly when he saw

on her purse slackened for a moment then tightened.

a familiar, faint smile on her face. “You’re

heavy. “You hate hospitals.

Came

silence, she glanced at him coolly. “I

in bullying a cripple, so

long after Cicely

grasped what Seth was worried about.

is here on your behalf to check on Miss

She thought it might give

gaze faltered for a

the scarf around her neck, presenting only

smile at the corners of

volatile, and your

even leading to harm.”

light smile. “I have Issac with

could hurt me when I’m fully

“The sooner she recovers, the sooner I can

ties with her.”

know,” Cicely replied, hands tucked into the pockets of her

why I braved the

overt anger,

the more she displayed it, the clearer Seth could sense her

sarcasm and rebellion.

reached out

he’d learned just

his touch.

time to join me. And as

meal with you

blunt rejection, Seth’s complexion

question floated into Seth’s ears,

pause, he looked

answer, as if the question

conclusion in

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

and pondered for a moment, her

visit Dad at the

“Alright.”

car rolled through the gates of

sprawling manor, feeling an unexpected sense

stood tall but failed

vitality.

furrowed her brows, and the

She got out of the car and

was empty, with servants occasionally

to be cautious. “Miss, you’re

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

give us a

glanced upstairs,

finished lunch not too long ago and was reading in the

he’s fallen asleep.”

he

some buckwheat

up the stairs, turning to

step, “And what else?”

were a couple

deepened as she turned and headed

the servants to

of the brownish buckwheat wraps remained,

of carrots

of ham and cheese.

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

you prepared for my father’s

servants were too frightened to reply, their heads

helplessly, “Sir has been preferring

asked for these dishes. Even if

them. Elderly folks’ meals are

no need to cook

Brody well enough not to doubt his words, but in

table was

Creighton slumped in

chest, his

and her eyes began to

master. That grand dining table

a humble corner for his simple

had married early, head over heels in love, insisting on living

alone in

blamed herself deeply

gently covering him with a blanket before

out of the study.

nap and came downstairs to find

his face lit up with an unmistakable

why didn’t you tell me you were

got secrets to hide

at her. “You’re not fighting with Seth

many quarrels?”

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

all the home-cooked

for dinner

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

to me.”

talk to

to Creighton for the rest of

playfully demanding take-backs that

amused and exasperated.

and son squared off while she

occasionally chiming in with

golden; don’t meddle in

was lively and bustling, and even the

entire Ellis family seemed to have returned to

be.

Creighton inquired about

said he was too busy to make

you two

for us to

Creighton relented.

a message. [I’m at the

coming home tonight.]

to create a dramatic runaway scenario with

home. After all, she couldn’t

anything amiss.

she

showed up at the Ellis

and moved to assist Seth with his coat. “Why are you

your message imply for

rack, her voice neutral, “No, it

know.”

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

invitation for

pulled her

into the living room. “Good

the couple’s closeness,

these past few days, have

“Not yet.”

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

The dishes were all tailored to

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

inexplicable stares of her father and

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

“You two aren’t

deep breath, “Just came out

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

back to

Enter title…

seemed to have anticipated her return to dine with him, and only when

from him did he glance up at her. “If

isn’t as

her expression nonchalant. “There’s

staying here for the near

brow

down

I not explain

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

bottle for a sip, “I said I’m not fighting with

time over the

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

just on a

insist on a reason, I have some. I’m on

but you’re short on time. In fact,

I saw my dad and changed my mind. You

time for me, but he could

I’m not fighting with

her lips curled in an

coupled with her subtle

answer had been placed on the

noon.

believe it? If not, she

“If you want to

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

home,

from his water glass.

by his easy acquiescence, but the feeling

even if he disagreed today, it wouldn’t

to understand why he mentioned inconvenience

such an easy compromise.

and grandfather

what their conversation

matters.

for little home

notebooks with pens. Not that she

liked

door was knocked, the servant opened it to

frost, stepping inside. “Ms. Cicely, good

sending you out

middle of the

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

can sit and wait

an errand. Mr. Seth asked me to bring some

be on

looked up, turned around, and noticed a gray

Brody, seeing this, quickly directed the

suitcase upstairs.

didn’t linger, bidding farewell and

up a glass of milk. After finishing

upstairs.

to talk about for so long

out? The servant had

found some clothes and went to the bathroom where

since she’d indulged

the water temperature, she slid into the

window was a view of

lights. It seemed they had been turned

especially for her return.

of boredom, she had asked her

glimpsing at them had become a habit

bathtub, staring

edge of the tub,

over her eyes.

the water, soothing her

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

felt a sudden chill.

above the water felt the coolness, and she instinctively slid down

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

fell away, and she looked up to see the man frowning

side of the tub.

be the first to drown in

startled, but it was by the man

room had dissipated when he

feel cold.

be to blame.” Cicely tried to shake off his grip, but he

her and began

“What are you

without missing a beat, dropping his

do in

paused, grabbed the towel beside the tub to cover

step out. Before she could leave, she was

glared up at him. “Seth! What

to do?”

at the woman in his arms, her face flushed

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

low and enticing. “Share a

deflated embarrassingly, “You

without drowning.”

softly. Compared to her quiet,

prickly aura, he preferred her current bold,

demeanor.

began to run his fingers through

your hair for

“No.”

of the

her consent before turning

rose in Cicely, but Seth’s hand covered her eyes.

wasn’t that Cicely lacked principles, but that this man

before

inch, as the towel she’d

away by

awkward, her arms crossing in front of her,

modesty she could.

hair

her close into his chest to rinse

lowered and eyes closed, Cicely

After all, there were more than a

for

he applied conditioner to her hair, he nudged her toward

took a quick shower

cool expression, Cicely asked, “Charlie

planning to stay

there any

a trek from

I can’t

will.”

of anger tinged Cicely’s

smile as he drew closer

to spending

better.”

sleep

leisurely over

contours of her body.

eyes darkened imperceptibly, and he reached out to

from the shower

prevent water from flowing into

succinct and cryptic response, which left her

something insistent pressing

the showerhead aside, his

forehead against hers. “We should get out and dry your

voice tightened, “Let go. I

going out

closed over hers abruptly.

he moved with a familiarity that made

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

than pain. “This

but you seemed not to mind. Though,

it down in

legs was wrapped around his waist, and

her vision blurred until she was on

turning off the hairdryer and slipping her into

away from him, her soft

side of the bed,

to turn away, his long arm scooped

he’d only persist if she tried

too exhausted to continue the

*

The next day.

Seth was already gone. The patchy marks on her

new ones added from

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

it. Yet now, with her body

all too pleased.

slipping into her loose

Still groggy and listless, she found Creighton and her

exercise and were

his head with a

“You really should fix that habit

the servant, sipped

“Sleeping in is the best

is bad for your health, and too much

the most important meal. Why are you still

didn’t you

left Cicely speechless for a

office. Why would I leave with

the office, duh! Perfect timing with your holiday.

of ending up clueless. What?

face showing clear

why he

quite good at passing

really didn’t

didn’t know, Creighton dropped the

hospital with your grandfather to see

come?”

the

of elegance and lazy

you’ll have lunch by

and they were

name had come up several times at

her alone in the hospital while the rest of them sat at

inappropriate and heartless. After a

visit the hospital the

silently. Anyone who dared say the Ellis family was

Danielle would have a problem with

returned in time for dinner. His timing

upstairs first, while Cicely

going up to her bedroom, where Seth was busy at

desk.

a word, she went to the bathroom, and upon entering, she locked

behind her. After a quick shower, she emerged to find Seth still

to play with her

long after, it seemed like Seth had finished his work. He stood up,

on the bed, walked over, brushed

the lips.

for

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

you up to?”

a hint of teasing, “What makes

rest tonight?”

what

plenty of things we have yet

him gently, “Then hurry up

by her, Seth’s

penetrating with unrestrained

herself gasping for air. She

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

on her, just barely.

to death?” she managed to say between

Seth off guard with their unintentional cuteness, and

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

he said with a playful

“Misunderstood?” Cicely’s drowsy eyes suddenly sharpened as

face just inches from hers. A

warrants a penalty

you misunderstand me? Shouldn’t I consider how

the same amused expression, yet a chill seemed to seep

“Go ahead. Punish me any way you

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

thinking that because I’m

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

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

to give me a severe

an eyebrow and ran her hand across

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

felt a

gently caressing her smooth chin, “You like me that

hand moved from

“But have you ever heard, love

loves someone at the start, the more they might hate

crept into Seth’s warm and

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

I doubt it will. I wouldn’t choose to

a bee sting to the nerve, his dark

a faint smile. He let go of Cicely’s

shirt was already missing two buttons that

unfastened the rest.

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

paused, “If you’re not obedient, I’ll

you up my way.”

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

emerged from the shower, Cicely was propped

a video game. She glanced at

game.

the

“Is there something you need

join me at

talking, he swiped and

know anything about business, what am I supposed

do there?”

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

thing in

I have

you the good little girl? Do you think your dad asking you to learn

on you

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

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

Ellis family forever. If

moment and start eating away at you,

Ellis family, you won’t even know where

you is

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

Ellis family is mine, isn’t it yours

truly in your own hands, is

makes you

Or maybe you want to leave me one

to her, his

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

who leaves a trail of broken

But beyond these two reasons, is there

didn’t improve,

the shadow in their depths replaced by

In

be reflecting on why I harbor such uncomfortable

phone back, “I’ve downloaded some files

as you can before sleep, and ask

understand tomorrow.”

the document app

a blur of text. “What

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

reflect. Naturally, I

mood.”

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

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

a tantrum.

＊

in his study for two

looking worse

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

woman sleeping with the phone in her arms, his

reignited.

Heartless woman.

into bed, taking the phone from her

she hadn’t closed.

opened for her before

sleeping face

was in a rush to find her a reliable

aside, he

cold as he pulled her

arms and scent, shifted comfortably against

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

her up, maybe keep her up all

her one sentence, she fell silent again, and any further

petty.

＊

morning, he woke Cicely with a kiss that was

coffee. Even

to morning grumpiness, she

robbed of breath.

she kicked him hard a couple of times. “Are you out of

mind?!”

flashed a mischievous grin as he swung his legs out of

shine, off to

not going.” Cicely yanked the comforter over her head in

face.” Seth’s voice

Cicely didn’t budge.

really gonna make me

comforter off with a huff, sat up,

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

a pillow at

was close by, and the pillow barely registered upon

I’m

picked up the pillow, and

see you up by the time I’m out, I’ll

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

back to sleep.”

teeth in frustration. As Seth turned away, the corners of his

into a

covers aside and stomped off to

toothpaste onto his

reflection in the mirror.

subtle raise of his eyebrows,

and Seth, as

their reflection. Seth nonchalantly

aside.

brushing. It was not like she needed

as simple as toothpaste.

the slight smile of her

headed to the Ellis

much of the document from last night did you read?” Seth pretended

to know anything.

I supposed to do at the

just smiled and

understood why he hadn’t mentioned

a new desk and chair in the

immediate deployment.

computer; you can keep

face away,

excuse, “There are printed copies

no matter what

answer for it. Reluctantly, she moved to the desk and found

pile of folders.

anything you don’t understand, and

will you

to a

“You’re leaving me here

wolves in the

reading; I’ll be back by

opened her mouth to retort

glanced at her before leaving the

been darting around, a clear sign she was up

possibly stir up

fact, after Seth left, Cicely did

pen, but

her

later, she left the office, returning after another half-hour to

She rummaged through the drawers, fiddled with the decorations,

pen and doodled on a black leather notebook

with her phone and then, noticing the

and the

promised, Seth returned before noon. Cicely

student.

you get through?”

new to me, so I’m on the third

a whole morning and you’re proud of

stung.

that

approached his desk, noticing the black notebook she had

found her doodles—a passable cartoon portrait, and

a confident,

slightly, but quickly adopted an air

nonchalance.

pursed his lips and took a deep breath,

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

away. Seth waited for an

hungry,” she declared as if

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

Come over here.”

prepared? No

the files and approached him.

his long arm pulled her into an embrace. “What

Cicely said, leaning back with a wary

waist, his voice deep and serious,

taking

“What do you mean?”

the day, you’d concoct all kinds

you. Sweet and respectful. Now, you can’t even be bothered

attitude. If

is?”

arched an eyebrow, “Respectful? That’s because I

you, and it’s intentional,

admission reeked of impunity, but Seth had no comeback, “So

feel like harboring

our current relationship, that

Seth was momentarily speechless.

feeling victorious, smiled, “What’s

it’s to your

pushed her away and leaned back in his chair,

expression and voice

Cicely watched him—

was

from a local diner, indeed Cicely’s

have no intention

“Aren’t you eating?”

out by

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

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

a big deal’.

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

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

her way.

eat it, leave it.

and huffed, “Then I guess you’ll be

tonight.”

at her with

the couch and picked up the elegantly

have to

until you’re

was stoic, “How long are you planning to keep

attitude with me?”

it you who’s been

to keep butting

her silverware tightened before

to watch

and

Seth fell silent.

*

Ellis Corporation since the afternoon,

had stayed

under Seth’s watchful

summoning various department heads for updates on all

progress reviews, the office atmosphere was

the well-known heiress of the Ellis family, even

her father, she couldn’t afford to be

the workday approached, Cicely found most of her

department leaders’ trembling,

word. She hadn’t made much

hadn’t commented on it.

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

in a while.”

twitched, “I should

need, I’ve

moved to the door

but Patty hadn’t arrived yetTo claim Cicely

Cicely knew

deal with things as they come. If Patty was in a

a bit more. If not, best to steer clear. It wasn’t

wasn’t

naturally, Cicely

off waiting by the door. She cozied

around Seth’s.

quickly offered them some tea

Enter title…

a call and returned after

He took a sip of warm water from his

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

fascinating about my face?”d2

She’d always been told if she didn’t

him always buzzing around, she

he hadn’t even

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

“I overheard

talking about this new mechanical

old models. We could corner the market

The Ellis family has the

Instead of bidding and choosing another

over to Diaz International? Given the ties

the Ellis family, why haven’t you considered

cold. “The big fish like the

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

with the Ellis

Diaz International, the rest can just sit

would kill for that kind of opportunity. Are

you just chicken out when you see the likes of

it just that

with the Ellis family?”

Corporation,

all more fitting

the Ellis family,

Corporation to make things

surprised by his stance. “What’s wrong with

counts. Why

pride for you, I’ll bang

mouth twitched into a half-smile. “Is there

to take the big deals, too proud for

What’s the point of running Diaz International? Might as well let

you wouldn’t have to worry about

actually a pretty solid

it, the

narrowed his eyes but

his silence, Cicely propped her chin in her hands and smiled at

if we actually go through with

shares for you in the Ellis family?

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

shares. How

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

in Diaz International?”

eyes twinkled. “Just occurred to me, if

your mother,

know, I’ve been

my sleeve that gives me an edge over you.

might just be it.”

unfathomable as he watched her.

last bit of Diaz International. So what if

sofa, with a carefree smile on her face.

to let it

lips tightened, clearly displeased with

his reaction, Cicely just smiled thinly.

International under the Ellis family banner

do to tick you off?” The voice

tone that belonged to none other

at her mug, then switched on her charm as she

already standing opposite her, her

wariness.

thinking out loud. Then I figured

family ain’t too shabby, right? Especially since

soon. No need to keep things

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

don’t even think about laying

International.”

eyebrow, her eyes carrying a mild,

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

already stood up, his expression

go.”

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

suppressing

the Diaz residence, but Cicely felt that

with Patty might be the real way to make

was out

to the Ellis residence, Seth took the wheel while

you off

“Same as today.”

me alone in the

there, I’ll

her arm against the car window,

her slender finger.

for a few seconds before slowly speaking,

a half-smile, “Should

you?”

“No

Seth fell silent.

home, the butler welcomed them respectfully. “Miss,

for you today; they’ve been temporarily stored in the warehouse.

them now, I

shoes and said, “Well,

packages. Cicely sat

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

knife.

items – mugs, thermos

unpacked them but also studied

times more focused and serious

when she read documents.

showered, he came down to find Cicely amidst an array

freshen up; we’re up early

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

examined it—it had a notable heft, and engraved on it was a

beneath. Beside her was a matching

of the items were pairs, hers in dark

light.

made you think of buying

time did I

and it feels

the small items, her tone

natural thing in the world. Seth

urged her to

next morning, seeing the white tumbler

contentedly.

at the Ellis estate and setting the

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

she realized they were much the same as what she’d

department heads yesterday.

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

knock on the door.

with parcels. “Ms. Cicely, these

addressed to you.”

up at the

she resumed her task with the craft

an office transformed. His desk now

frame, a new pen holder, several stylographs, a

couple of notebooks.

in the corner mirrored his,

a cushion

bouquet of flowers had even appeared on the coffee table.

wisdom of leaving her alone in

as though she’d done nothing

“What’s for

“How much work

raised three fingers, then hesitantly added a fourth,

keys on the computer, bringing up a

capturing every bit of Cicely’s boredom—and

everything but work.

No surprise there.

video was silent, and Cicely, unaware of

hungry,” she stated, approaching him.

closed the video.

a screen full of

progress today, spent the whole

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

on the desk, and he nodded, “Good

reward, I’ll take

office for a meal was music to

*

afternoon, Seth stayed at the

for reports and

several days, and even

about company affairs, she couldn’t help

everything settled, it was time for the company’s annual

a hectic affair.

Diaz International, and

the same day, at the same

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

south, the other north,

just below Diaz International’s—a floor

with the Ellis Corporation.

dressed in a silver-gray, fitted

a pair of silver high-heeled shoes, and

she still stood

of her birth, Cicely seemed

were simple in design, yet

man by her side was distractingly

for onlookers to look away. Cicely had everything

to the Diaz International gala

stage and deliver the expected pleasantries, to clink glasses

away to

Ellis Corporation gala was orchestrated

father present, the

arrival at the Ellis Corporation gala, they were

flurry of toasts and well-wishes, almost like a

their guests, receiving blessings

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

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

taking care of

her chin in her hand, Cicely teased with

are a lot of celebrity

her coolly, “And plenty of

even curious to take a

Seth retorted, “If your intentions weren’t so transparent, I

have considered it.”

want to admire

“Sure, one day I’ll bring them all

personal viewing.”

about skipping the

low profile there, and even

its grand

envy of many.

up to Seth was

not a patient man, unwilling to waste

ingratiate themselves with him.

was a magnet for journalists, both overt

absence from the C&P event was deliberate, with

after, Charlie hurriedly arrived, lowering his

he spoke to Seth.”Mr. Diaz, Ray got drunk at

a commotion over at Diaz International’s

his demeanor darkened. As he

his wrist, “What’s

put, I’ll be back soon,”

before following Charlie out.

he was out of sight, then rose and

Diaz International’s gala, Ray was slouched on the steps of the

finished bottle of hard liquor.

with a sneer, using the steps

feet

slurred, emphasizing each syllable with a bitterness

each word with venom. “You’re

laughed coldly, flashing a thumbs-up

seen just how ruthless

I can’t blame anyone for the

family never provoked you; we

you coveted what the we had, you seized my

anticipated such drama on the eve

the air, the implications clear to

tactics, about

Ray had once made

fiancée, this had incensed him enough

against Ray .

course, some speculated that it had been a

seemed to

a shareholder in your family business, my

this place immediately.” Seth said

shares when

a hospital stay, clung stubbornly to his

ten percent.

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

event. I can’t do anything

I have, and I can’t tarnish it. Just

much to you. You destroyed my company, so tell me, wouldn’t it

ruined Diaz International, let you

today?”

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

what makes you think you

away the last shred of

the drunken stupor in his eyes,

if he might

vengeful fury.

the table next

shattered, sending sharp shards

the breaking glass pierced through

causing Cicely’s heart to skip

towards Seth, her high heels a clumsy match for

the

and she let out a breathless shout.

she dashed forward, pulling Seth’s arm and embracing him

spun half a circle to

to Seth,

onto Seth’s hand, and the woman

about to fall out

moment.

reverberated throughout the banquet

to intervene, felt a surge of rage at the sight

blood on

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

a bloodied sword blade, seething with a murderous aura

glared at Ray.

through Cicely’s arm

Seth’s unrestrained anger, she gripped his

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

tall.

as it landed on her pale, bloodless

resounding slap, Cicely slapped him. Stunned, he

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

him will do you now? What if

you?!”

and though her voice carried anger, it

clear tremble.

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

it clear to him—she was

fear, anger, or

constricting pain gripped his heart as he surveyed her injuries,

a clear cut on her right arm. He grasped her arm,

“Where else are you

and tears

and restlessness

voice, “Talk to

to

and

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

had twisted it in her last desperate

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

his arms.

tackled to the ground by Charlie, who had pinned

knee on his back, restraining

beside Seth and was quick to react when Ray

Cicely’s panicked cry had caused him a moment’s hesitation.

bottle had swung past

swiftly, Cicely had been cut on

Seth carried Cicely away, Ray, pinned down

Seth’s retreating

don’t be so damn arrogant. One day, you’ll pay for

done!”

didn’t falter in his

*

of Cicely’s injuries, Erik and

frenzy.

ankle and

too shallow, but not too

already been treated, her wounds

were red and swollen

and Creighton, she greeted them with a

“Dad.”

call and returned to the room. Charlie

gave a brief nod to

concern for

his concern, which he

known a day of hardship in her life, and just a few days

new year, this

“it’s not his fault. I

listen and followed

her a glare. “Am I

Enter title…

hurts now, and it’ll still hurt

the pain

said, cutting himself off mid-sentence. She had to

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

lifetime, could he

Cicely, her hair somewhat disheveled but still beautiful,

at the gala when she had

shield him with

Totally unexpected.

initial shock and anger now took on

process these

the

he saw Cicely with red eyes and pursed lips, looking

as could be, then she lifted her arms

her knees, lifting her from the

understanding brought a slight sense of peace to

watching.

and Seth back

the Ellis residence

had never mentioned leaving

holiday after the gala, Seth stayed at the

Cicely company.

washing up – any

her, never leaving her side. Apart from the servants’

was impeccable in

silent, complaint-free actions were bittersweet

Cicely from the bathroom to the

waiting.

bandaging process, despite the doctor’s caution, some pain

slight shift in pressure and Cicely would wince.

the man beside her, who

tense as a surgical

residence, any sitting with Creighton that lasted

inevitably turned

alone and bored in her room, insisted Seth take

to the living room or the study.

to most of their

had heard them talk about the mechanical manufacturing issues of the

family.

which should have

to

Seth if Diaz International

same as it had

Creighton didn’t

on to other matters.

company affairs, she found comfort in

Seth’s voice and being able to look up and see

just before

daughter-in-law who had been injured protecting

put on airs at this time.

than on previous

Ellis family prepared a lavish dinner

up the topic of the New

to bring Cicely back to the Diaz family

mood didn’t match the generosity

were legally married, spending

most appropriate

for a moment, glanced at the young couple,

somewhat absent-mindedly.

felt a deep pang of

at home, the vastness of

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

would leave

*

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

residence.

left with them to pick up Danielle from

that leaving Danielle alone in

Year was too heartless. After negotiating with the doctor, they finally

bring her

However, the image of

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

might liven things up, serving as company

the thought of Danielle’s

it might be better

bustling since yesterday, and though they

home for the New

a sumptuous feast knowing

the hospital. And Cicely,

who should have been picked

Her face immediately

was chatting happily with Danielle. When she saw Seth carrying

expression paused for a

smiling.

also

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

way she said that made it

Seth asked, ignoring her question

was as

storm.

clasped tightly, not saying

leave her all

holidays, could we?”

her chest, but she fought

let

who applied for her discharge. If

family. You stay here

“Patty is being polite, but don’t

ashamed?”

even more mortified after that brief,

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

face was barely able to contain her

here. Danielle got herself

we can never repay. What’s wrong with inviting her over for dinner? I’d

in taking care of her every single day

“By that logic, any woman

play the damsel in distress.

Ellis family’s dinners even

anger, and she whirled to glare

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

mother figure that you have

her?”

don’t take your

it you who’s making him

“You…”

Seth’s deep voice cut through the

which had been light and smiling, settled on a glass on

she quietly awaited Seth’s next

celebrate, not to start a scene and

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