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 angry is bad

Seth and I will be driven to

Enter title…

then let out a

for life, you’ll never be able to shake

off.”d2

slightly as she looked

Cicely gave a faint smile. “How shameless

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

and neither will Seth. Even blood relatives fed up after

think you are

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

and day out? Or rather, do you think Seth

someone disabled?”

she glared at

her most vulnerable

you’re off the hook just because

You were so proud, weren’t you?

die, I will dig you up from

Maybe if you get better soon, you might be able to slap me

me for

eyed the neatly laid out food

but Cicely’s icy, detached voice

myself just to

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

annoying.”

her arm began to lift, it froze in

Cicely would win.

my appetite. Please,

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

eats or

“Understood.”

took a deep

didn’t look at her again, turning towards the door to leave. But

two steps, the door swung open from the

her expression darkening as the man who entered caught her

of Cicely brought a surge

had just returned from the restroom, rushed in,

front of Cicely.

standing behind Issac, furrowed her

when he opened the door. She reached out and pushed Issac

Ray, feeling

his teeth clenched as

mixed with rage.

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

nearly took advantage of me that night when you were

haven’t even come to settle that score yet, and here you are looking

castrated you myself.”

hit Ray

Ray stammered, “Seth never told you

night?”

slightly, “Does what he say negate

raped me?”

faint smile, she added, “I’m aware of Mr.

it. Let’s put our grievances aside for

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

to this mess, not anyone else’s doing.

Let’s not make her situation

listening to the exchange, could

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

I know

with a

I’ll take

shielded Cicely as they left the hospital

him

but I didn’t let him

the bag in her hands until her knuckles turned

again brought back the chaos of

so vivid and terrifying that even the mere thought

shudder.

“Miss?”

the memories, “It seems Mr. Ray is quite fond

playboy, surrounded by

feelings for

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

scoffed, “Not perhaps. With his family on the brink, he’s willing

It’s clear she means a lot to him.

accident was orchestrated by his family for

frowned at the

he’d nearly get

*

Ray stood by Danielle’s bed. His

guilt. “I’m sorry, I had no idea it would turn out this

in the mood to give Ray any more attention than she had

her fork clumsily, she shoveled food into her mouth

indifference.

dog-eat-dog world. Regardless of the tactics

from her plate. “Is it really necessary to go

happening to him now, and your family is

least a chance for a comeback, but now, you guys

blown it for good.”

were clenched so tight his knuckles were white, and

forehead. “He orchestrated the downfall of my family from

told you not to be fooled by his act.

what you can imagine. My dad said the

had his sights set

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

on these things to make everyone

suddenly delivered a fatal blow. He played innocent

wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve never hidden

shown

the receiving end

color. She had pondered this question before,

into it. She didn’t want

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

you wouldn’t

it up before. I’ve checked with

a rough road ahead. I came

ask

up, her voice restrained and flat. “Go

front of that car for him, was

was it just a ploy

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

with a motive, my only desire

smile. “It’s different. The accident

I didn’t expect my father to be so obstinate. If you

you

her fork down and

are

pressed his lips

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

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

If I had died, what would be

true or not,

in front of me to push

I stop caring for you, it’s like denying everything I’ve

can’t, I need to find a reason

this composed yet so obsessively insane.

blanket trembled slightly. She was afraid of Ray

there was no telling what

to.

*

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

across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

furrowed imperceptibly

for a moment then

with a familiar, faint smile on her

hate hospitals. What are you

Came to check on her with

After a brief silence, she glanced at him coolly. “I have

in bullying a cripple, so don’t

Cicely arrived

instantly grasped what Seth was worried

your behalf to check

She thought it might

faltered for

her neck, presenting only her profile to him,

of

and your presence might

even leading to harm.”

him with a light smile.

person could hurt me when I’m

she recovers,

ties with her.”

replied, hands tucked into

braved the

overt anger, just a serene and

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

sarcasm and rebellion.

had lunch?” Seth reached out to

he’d learned just

aside, avoiding his

the time to join me. And as

sharing a meal with

such blunt rejection, Seth’s

you ever trusted me?” The question

a brief pause, he looked up to find

for an answer, as if the

in her

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

and pondered

at

“Alright.”

rolled through the gates

at the sprawling

tall but failed to bring any

vitality.

and the already

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

was empty, with servants occasionally moving about in silence. Even

be cautious. “Miss,

the sound of her arrival, a

didn’t you give us a heads

glanced upstairs, “Where’s

and was reading in the study.

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he have for

made some

turning to

step, “And what else?”

“There were a

turned and headed straight

the servants to

of the brownish buckwheat wraps remained, along with

light salad of carrots and

of ham and cheese.

back of a nearby chair, she lifted her

you prepared for my

to reply, their heads

has been preferring

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

folks’ meals

sir says there’s no

Brody well enough not to doubt

dining table was always a

she found Creighton slumped in

a book resting on his chest, his head

of sorrow hit Cicely, and

but one master. That grand dining table now set

a humble corner

head over heels in love, insisting on living with Seth

father alone

herself deeply

wake Creighton, gently covering him with

out of the study.

his nap

his face

why didn’t you tell me you were

secrets to hide before

her. “You’re not fighting

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

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

the home-cooked meals. Dad, how about

over for dinner

He listens to you more

to me.”

talk

the

demanding

amused and exasperated.

squared off while she placed

chiming in with

is golden;

lively and bustling, and even the

family seemed to have returned to

be.

dinner, Creighton inquired about

busy to make it back. Creighton frowned, giving

“Are you two really

hope for us to be alright,

Creighton relented.

still sent Seth a message. [I’m

coming home tonight.]

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

all, she couldn’t let Grandpa and

anything amiss.

reply, and she didn’t

the Ellis estate’s

frown and moved to assist Seth

message imply for me to

her voice neutral, “No, it was

know.”

for a married couple

your message as an invitation for us

had pulled her

living room. “Good

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

past few days, have

“Not yet.”

have the staff whip up a few dishes. Cicely, take care

The dishes were all tailored

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

inexplicable stares of her father and

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

in, “You two aren’t

“Just came out to grab

way over to the coffee table, bending

back to the dining

Enter title…

return to dine with him,

him did he glance up at her. “If you really

the Ellis family estate isn’t as cozy as

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

for the

brow as he methodically

set down his

I not explain myself

well. Now that you’ve explained it,

water bottle for a sip, “I said

wasting time over the

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

back here just on

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

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

then I saw my dad and changed my mind. You

could use some company. Are

not

her lips curled in an almost imperceptible

coupled with her subtle expression,

had been placed on

noon.

he believe it? If not, she

want to stay,

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

own home,

casually took a sip from his water

easy acquiescence, but

he disagreed today, it

to understand why he mentioned inconvenience and

such an easy compromise.

father and grandfather in the

what their conversation would be

matters.

her shopping app for little home decor

and notebooks with pens. Not that

but she liked doodling when

was knocked, the servant opened

inside. “Ms. Cicely,

heartless, sending you out in

middle of the night

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

matters. You can sit

need, I just have an errand.

on

looked up, turned around, and noticed

to Charlie. Brody, seeing this, quickly directed the servant to carry

suitcase upstairs.

linger, bidding farewell

up a glass of milk. After finishing her

upstairs.

those men possibly have to talk about for so long

had refilled their water

clothes and went to the bathroom

been a while since she’d indulged in a good

she slid into the tub and let out

window was a view of the garden and

rotating ground lights. It

especially for her return.

she had

glimpsing at them had become a habit during

leaned over the edge of the bathtub, staring at that place for a while.

the tub, twisted a hot towel, and

over her eyes.

into the water,

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

felt a sudden chill.

above the water felt the coolness,

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

and she looked up to see the

side of the tub.

the first to drown in

was startled, but it was by the man who had appeared silently

the room had dissipated when he entered,

feel cold.

I did, guess who’d be to blame.” Cicely tried

stood next to her and began to undress

frowned, “What are

a beat, dropping

else does one do in a

towel beside the tub to cover herself, and stood

step out. Before she could leave, she was scooped up into

the towel to her chest and glared

to do?”

at the woman in his

warm bath, more radiant than usual.

was low and enticing. “Share a

indignation deflated embarrassingly, “You should be able

without drowning.”

Compared to her quiet, gentle demeanor,

he preferred her

demeanor.

thorny retort, he began to run

your hair

“No.”

the shower interrupted

waited for her consent before

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

but that this

her anger before

still, not moving an inch, as the towel she’d

away

in front of her, trying to

modesty she could.

into her hair

close into his chest to rinse it clean with the

and eyes closed, Cicely considered

After all, there

for this

he applied conditioner to her hair, he nudged her

took a

a cool expression, Cicely asked, “Charlie

Are you planning to stay

any

quite a trek from

here. I can’t exactly haul you back against

will.”

flicker of anger tinged

drew

nothing compared to spending a

better.”

sleep

drifted leisurely over her face and

contours of her body.

he reached

warm water from the shower cascading over

water

his succinct and cryptic

suddenly felt something insistent pressing against her and came

already set the showerhead aside,

his forehead against hers. “We should get out

voice tightened, “Let go. I

going out just

Seth’s lips closed over hers

a

scream out. She hit

pain. “This

but you seemed not to mind.

keep it down in

was wrapped around

blurred until she was on the brink

off the hairdryer and slipping her into

her

side of the bed, facing her.

away, his long arm scooped her into his embrace.

to resist, knowing he’d only

exhausted

*

The next day.

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

ones added from

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

tend to it. Yet now, with her body covered in marks,

all too pleased.

into her loose loungewear, she

Still groggy and listless, she found Creighton and her

morning exercise and were

shook his head with a

should fix that habit

the servant,

the best part of a

for your health, and

most important meal. Why

you leave with

irritation left Cicely speechless

office. Why would

your holiday. You could

company instead of ending

frowned, her face showing clear reluctance. “No, he

he didn’t

good at passing

really

genuinely didn’t know,

the hospital with your grandfather to see

come?”

onto the couch, resting her elbow on the

blend of elegance

have lunch by

they were already

come up several

the hospital while

table was incredibly inappropriate and heartless.

were set to visit the hospital the next

Anyone who dared say the Ellis family was

Danielle would have

in time for dinner. His timing

upstairs first, while Cicely sat with

living room before going up to her

desk.

she went to the bathroom, and

quick shower, she emerged to

to

long after, it seemed like Seth had finished his

on the bed, walked over, brushed her forehead with his hand,

the lips. “I’m

Wait for

“How horny can you be? It’s been days on end.

you up to?”

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

rest tonight?”

“Then what am I waiting

chuckled, “Mrs. Diaz, there are plenty of

pushed him gently,

by her, Seth’s

penetrating with unrestrained

herself gasping for air. She lifted her hands

a soft whimper. It was only then

on her, just barely.

to kiss me to death?” she managed to

guard with their unintentional cuteness, and

to death? I wouldn’t dream of

Mrs. Diaz,” he said with a playful

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

inches from hers. A gentle smile tinged her

penalty for self-justification, then what

I

same amused expression, yet a chill seemed to seep

me any way you see

slightly tilted her head, calmly and seriously meeting his

thinking that because I’m

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

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

heart to give me

an eyebrow and ran her hand across his face, her

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

in her eyes, Seth felt a

gently caressing her smooth chin, “You like me

Her hand moved from his face to

“But have you ever heard, love and hate are two

at the start,

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

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

doubt it will. I wouldn’t choose to hate

sting to the nerve, his dark eyes fixed on

let go

buttons that Cicely had

unfastened the rest.

you off tonight. It’s still early, so

leave and then paused, “If you’re

you up my way.”

had no desire to find out what his

shower, Cicely was propped

video game. She glanced at him, then refocused on

game.

climbed into bed and snatched the phone from her hands.

there something you need

me at the office tomorrow

swiped and tapped on her phone

don’t know anything about business, what am I

do there?”

little, you wouldn’t need to tag

thing in

have to

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

picking on you for no

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

the future, your only sure

dad won’t manage the Ellis family forever. If

moment and start eating away at you, swallowing up

won’t even know where to

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

truly in your

“What makes you insecure?

maybe you want to leave me one

her, his

further. “It sounds like you’re

a trail

beyond these two reasons, is there anything

improve, and he didn’t

shifted, the shadow in their depths replaced by a

In fact, instead

reflecting on why I harbor such uncomfortable

phone back, “I’ve downloaded some files to

before sleep, and ask me about anything you

understand tomorrow.”

took the phone, the document app he

of text. “What will

at her, then got out of bed, lifting

reflect. Naturally, I can’t stay

mood.”

coat, and walk out. Her face looked

well; it wasn’t about reflection. The man

a tantrum.

＊

study for two

his face looking worse

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

Seeing the woman sleeping with the

reignited.

Heartless woman.

the phone from her hand and

she hadn’t closed.

one he’d opened for her before leaving. He then looked at

face

a rush to find her

and tossing it aside, he watched the

he pulled her

man’s arms and scent, shifted comfortably

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

wake her

she fell silent again, and any further

petty.

＊

petty; the next morning, he woke Cicely with a kiss

a cup of strong coffee. Even for

grumpiness, she was even

robbed of breath.

a couple of

mind?!”

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

shine, off to the

way! I am not going.” Cicely yanked

your face.” Seth’s voice carried a serious

Cicely didn’t budge.

make me do this the hard

comforter off

strength could she muster just out of bed,

a pillow at

was close by, and the pillow barely

so over this, I’m not going to the

picked up the pillow, and placed it back on the

by the

me to wake you up

back to sleep.”

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

into a sly

threw the covers aside and stomped off

onto his brush. He watched her

reflection in the mirror.

of his eyebrows, he shifted

and Seth, as if on cue, applied

glanced at their reflection. Seth nonchalantly placed

aside.

she started brushing. It was not

as toothpaste. The

slight smile of her

headed to the Ellis

the document from last

to know anything.

two pages. So what am I supposed to do at

just smiled and

understood why he hadn’t mentioned

and chair in the corner, waiting for

immediate deployment.

on the computer; you

her face

seemed to anticipate this excuse, “There are printed copies

fell silent. She felt like no matter

for it. Reluctantly, she moved to the

pile of folders.

anything you don’t understand, and

will you

to a C&P

frowned, “You’re leaving me here

wolves in

focus on the reading; I’ll

to retort but held back. “Just

her before leaving the

clear sign she was up to

she possibly stir up

after Seth left, Cicely did take the

with her pen, but within half an

and her phone was

office, returning after

She rummaged through the drawers, fiddled with the decorations,

and doodled on a black leather

and then, noticing

and the

Seth returned before noon. Cicely sat there, the

student.

did you

new to me, so I’m on

three files in a whole morning and you’re proud of

stung.

fact that

approached his desk, noticing the black notebook

her doodles—a

written in a

‘artwork’ and flushed slightly, but quickly adopted an air

nonchalance.

and took a

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

documents away. Seth waited

she declared as if

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

Come over here.”

prepared? No complaints

grudgingly clutched the files and

into an embrace.

Cicely said, leaning back

waist, his voice

one taking liberties

“What do you mean?”

“Back in the day, you’d concoct all kinds of schemes

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

this half-hearted attitude. If that’s

is?”

eyebrow, “Respectful? That’s because I harbored

it’s intentional, Mr.

reeked of impunity, but

feel like harboring intentions towards

relationship, that would mean cheating, Mr.

Seth was momentarily speechless.

smiled, “What’s for

it’s to

and leaned back in his

his expression

Cicely watched him—

was

was fetched by Charlie from a local diner, indeed Cicely’s favorite.

seemed to have no intention of joining

“Aren’t you eating?”

response was drowned out by the rhythmic clacking of

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

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

a big deal’.

by myself?” she asked, her brow furrowed as

laden with food, while

her way.

it, leave it. Nobody said you had

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

tonight.”

looked up at her with

and picked up the

coolly, “Nobody said we have to sleep together every night.

wait until

long are you

attitude with me?”

it you who’s

to keep

her silverware tightened before

to

with me, and I’ll sleep with

Seth fell silent.

*

had been at the Ellis Corporation

stayed

wanted to slack off, but under Seth’s watchful eye, that

with him summoning various department heads

and progress reviews, the office atmosphere

of the Ellis

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

the workday approached, Cicely found most of her attention

the department leaders’ trembling, overly

She hadn’t made much

hadn’t commented on it.

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

in a while.”

“I should probably

I’ve already

murmured an acknowledgment and moved to the door to

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

it, Cicely knew she had to

things as they come. If

a bit more. If not, best to steer

Patty wasn’t

and naturally, Cicely wasn’t

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

around Seth’s.

offered them

Enter title…

a call and returned after a few minutes, sitting

He took a sip

broke the ice. “Spit it out, will

fascinating about my face?”d2

been told if

ask him. But with him always buzzing around, she never did.

even

her hair, her palm warming against the

nonchalantly, “I overheard General Manager

this new mechanical equipment

the socks off the old models. We could corner the market

has the know-how and the development rights.

got a point. Instead of bidding and choosing

hand the deal over to Diaz International? Given the ties

Ellis family, why

was cold. “The big fish like the Harper family,

are all eyeing the Ellis project.

the Ellis

Ellis family picks Diaz International, the

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

just chicken out when you see the

family, or the Watsons? Or is it just that you flat-out don’t want to

with the Ellis family?”

interim head of the Ellis Corporation, I can say that

are all more fitting

work with the Ellis family, are you suggesting I use my position

to make

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

line is what counts. Why sweat the small stuff?

of pride for you,

mouth twitched into a

to take the

running

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

up. Hmm, that’s actually a pretty

she thought about it, the more

narrowed his eyes

silence, Cicely propped her chin in her hands and

with that? Assess the value of Diaz

shares for you in the Ellis family? Or,

personally, and I’ll cut you in on a slice of the

How

“What’s all this

in Diaz International?”

me, if

you besides your mother, it’s probably Diaz

I’ve been thinking that I don’t really have

an edge

might just be it.”

gaze was meaningful and unfathomable as he watched her.

last bit of Diaz International. So what if I

with a

to let it

lips tightened, clearly displeased

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

under the Ellis

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

familiar tone that belonged to none other

glanced at her mug, then switched on her charm as

already standing opposite her, her face

wariness.

I figured it wasn’t

shabby, right? Especially

to keep things so

let out a scoff, “The future is the future. You

even think

International.”

an eyebrow, her eyes

Patty wasn’t bringing it up,

already stood up, his expression

go.”

mindful of Seth’s

if forcefully suppressing

they had dinner at the Diaz residence, but Cicely felt

Patty might be the real way to make her happy.

was out

Ellis residence,

you

“Same as today.”

me alone in the office again,

I’ll disturb

her arm against the car

her slender finger.

for a few seconds before slowly

into a half-smile, “Should I prepare

you?”

“No

Seth fell silent.

them respectfully. “Miss, we received

today; they’ve been temporarily stored in

like to open them now, I can bring

said, “Well, bring them out,

many packages. Cicely

a waterproof mat and started to slice open the

knife.

were small items – mugs, thermos cups,

not only unpacked them but also studied them. Her demeanor

times more

when she read documents.

came down to find Cicely

“Go freshen up; we’re up

him a white travel

it—it had a notable heft, and

Beside her was a

name. The rest of the items were pairs, hers

light.

you think of buying all

I realize there are no

it feels

spoke while still engrossed in the

natural thing in the world. Seth

to

the white tumbler in the

contentedly.

estate and setting

Cicely’s focus was still scattered,

were much the same as what she’d

department heads yesterday.

paperwork aside, paced the

knock on the door.

Shane, arms laden with parcels. “Ms.

addressed to you.”

now, perked up at the sight, “Put them

chair, she resumed

an office

holder, several stylographs,

couple of notebooks.

his,

a cushion on the

fresh bouquet of flowers had even appeared on

question the wisdom of leaving

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

for lunch

“How much work did

raised three fingers, then hesitantly added

the computer, bringing up a video of

every bit of Cicely’s boredom—and

everything but work.

No surprise there.

Cicely, unaware of

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

closed the video.

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

today, spent the

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

new objects on the

I’ll take you out for

the office for a meal was music

*

Seth stayed at the Ellis Corporation, repeating

for

over several days, and even

affairs, she couldn’t help

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

a hectic affair.

Diaz International, and C&P were arranged

the same day, at

sky bridges. The topfloor ballrooms were split between the Ellis Corporation and Diaz

south, the

below Diaz International’s—a floor

with the Ellis Corporation.

a silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress with the hem

pair of

dressed as others, she still stood out

Cicely seemed destined to make other

Her clothes were simple in design, yet

was distractingly handsome, a sight

away.

the Diaz International gala

the expected pleasantries, to clink glasses and

before whisking her away to the Ellis

was orchestrated by Seth’s people,

father present, the spotlight was

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

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

guests, receiving blessings and

Cicely mused aloud, “Isn’t

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

care

hand, Cicely teased with a mischievous smile, “I

a lot of

glanced at her coolly, “And plenty of

even curious to

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

have considered it.”

just want to admire the pretty

Seth replied curtly, “Sure, one day I’ll bring them all to you

personal viewing.”

seemed serious about skipping the C&P

a low profile there,

as a whole. C&P, after its

grip, was the envy of many. Naturally,

cozy up to Seth

unwilling to waste time on those

ingratiate themselves with him.

gala was a magnet for

absence from the C&P event was

away. However, not long after, Charlie hurriedly arrived, lowering

Ray got drunk at the C&P gala and

a commotion over at

darkened.

his wrist,

put, I’ll be back soon,”

before following Charlie out.

of sight, then rose and trailed

Ray was slouched on

a nearly finished bottle of hard liquor. His face

sneer, using the

to his feet

each syllable with a

word with venom. “You’re impressive, truly

flashing a

admit, you play hardball. I’ve seen just how

that I can’t blame anyone for the downfall of

My family never provoked you; we were just

what the we had,

hadn’t anticipated such drama on the eve

the air,

tactics, about

Ray had once made

this had incensed him enough to

against Ray .

it had been a premeditated strike. Now,

to confirm the

shareholder in your

this place

their shares when Ray’s family had

waking from a hospital stay, clung

ten percent.

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

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

and I can’t tarnish it. Just as Diaz

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

ruined Diaz International,

today?”

looked at Ray with icy detachment,

you think you can destroy

the last shred of Ray’s dignity.

in his

looked as if he

vengeful fury.

the bottle of whiskey onto the table next to Seth with such

it shattered, sending sharp shards

of the breaking glass pierced through the

skip a beat. Instinctively, her feet

towards Seth, her high heels a

brandished the jagged remains of the bottle at Seth, Cicely’s

she let out a breathless shout.

pulling Seth’s arm and

half a circle

Seth, her body shielding

blood fell onto Seth’s hand, and

arms seemed about to

moment.

collective gasp reverberated

Cicely to intervene, felt a

blood on

arm stood out, and his face, usually cool

sword blade, seething with a murderous

glared at Ray.

shot through Cicely’s arm

anger, she gripped his clothes

she managed to

tall.

it landed on her

him. Stunned, he looked

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

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

you?!”

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

clear tremble.

seemed to stem from the physical reaction to

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

anger,

constricting pain gripped his heart as he surveyed her

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

else are

her lip, and tears

and restlessness swirled within Seth.

low voice, “Talk

to crumble under

fear—all converged and

her face. “My… my

it in her last desperate lunge to

heels and, with a grimace, bent down to scoop her

his arms.

Ray had been tackled to the ground by Charlie, who had pinned

a knee on his back, restraining

been right beside Seth and was quick to react when

cry had caused him a moment’s hesitation. In

broken bottle had swung

had been cut on the

Cicely away, Ray, pinned

Seth’s retreating figure

don’t be so damn arrogant. One

done!”

falter

*

Cicely’s injuries, Erik and Creighton rushed to the hospital

frenzy.

a sprained ankle and a two-centimeter laceration

too shallow, but not too

already been treated, her wounds

were red

and Creighton, she greeted them with

“Dad.”

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

gave a

their concern

mask his concern, which he

a day of hardship

year,

“it’s not his

and

glare. “Am I not allowed to speak

Enter title…

still hurt if

pain stop, then

I’ll stop,” he said, cutting himself off mid-sentence. She had

all his words were

lifetime, could he

somewhat disheveled but still beautiful,

moment at the gala when she

him with her

Totally unexpected.

shock and anger now took on a

he could process these swirling emotions, the

Seth listened intently to the

with red eyes and pursed lips, looking as

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

under her knees,

sense of peace to

watching.

drove Cicely and Seth back to

needed care, and returning to the Ellis residence was

all, she had never

gala, Seth

Cicely company.

washing up – any time Cicely needed

leaving her side. Apart from the servants’

was impeccable

silent, complaint-free actions were bittersweet

from the bathroom to the bed

waiting.

bandaging process, despite the doctor’s caution,

slight shift in pressure and Cicely would wince.

heavy silence from the man beside

as tense as a

residence, any sitting with Creighton that lasted more

inevitably turned to

and bored in her room, insisted Seth take

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

to most of

them talk about the mechanical manufacturing issues of the

family.

postponed the deal which should have been

year to after

International was interested in taking the

it

Creighton didn’t dwell

on to other matters.

wasn’t interested in company affairs, she

being able to look up

the Ellis residence just before the

been injured protecting Seth, Patty

to put on airs at this

than on

a lavish dinner for her. She

table, she brought up the topic of the

Seth to bring Cicely back to the

mood

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

was the most appropriate

paused for a moment, glanced

somewhat absent-mindedly.

noticing Creighton’s reaction, suddenly felt a deep pang of sadness.

was not at home, the vastness

had returned to spend

festive gatherings, would leave

*

Yearr’s Eve, Seth took Cicely back to the

residence.

to pick up Danielle from

leaving Danielle alone in the

negotiating with the

bring

comment. However, the image

other, feels sad just thinking about

of Danielle might liven things up, serving as company for the

then again, the thought of Danielle’s

feel that it might be better off

bustling since yesterday,

to Cicely not being home for the New Year’s Eve dinner, they

sumptuous feast knowing Miss Danielle

find anyone at the hospital.

who should have been picked up

Her face

Danielle.

expression paused for a moment, but then she

smiling.

seated in her wheelchair, also had

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

that made it sound like Cicely

are you doing here?” Seth asked,

couch. His voice was as flat as the

storm.

clasped tightly, not saying

brought her here. We couldn’t leave her all alone

holidays, could we?”

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

best not to let her emotions flare out of

her

the Ellis family. You stay here for the holidays…”

on Danielle. “Patty is being polite, but

ashamed?”

turned even more mortified after

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

her fury. “The guest I

here. Danielle got herself injured saving

wrong with inviting her over for dinner? I’d

taking care of her every

into a sneer. “By that

and play the

family’s dinners even

face turned pale with anger, and she whirled to

at Cicely. “This is the

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

her?”

don’t take

who’s

“You…”

voice cut through the

been light and smiling, settled on a glass on

as she quietly awaited

brought you here to celebrate, not to start

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