The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

Chapter 2031-2040

So, what do you want to do then?”

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

speak, but no words came out.

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

hospital room spotless again.

Charlie returned with a fresh lunch from a nearby deli.

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

“Eat up.”d2

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

Enter title…

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

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

use the restroom on your own.”

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

the fork.

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

“Have you eaten?”

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

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

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

Danielle didn’t dare to press him further.

*

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

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

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

Issac stared at her silently.

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

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

make sure she gets it.”

Issac was moved. “I’ll send someone.”

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

message popped up from Emiliana.

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

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

Cicely: [I’ll add him.]

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

I

ssac was still there when she looked up.

“Why haven’t you left?”

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

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

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

driver’s ID before letting Cicely leave.

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

accepted her friend request.

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

Cicely: [Have you had lunch yet?]

Santino: [Not yet.]

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

Santino did too.

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

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

mask and sunglasses hiding his well-known face.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

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

hope you’re not pressed for time.”

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

Cicely smiled as the dishes began to arrive.

“Thanks for bringing my car back.”

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

difficult.”

Cicely raised an eyebrow. “Fine by me.”

“Are you out on your own again today?”

The question felt ironic to Cicely.

“Is that strange?”

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

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

your age seems a bit lonely too soon.”

Lonely.

Cicely paused. The word felt foreign to her.

She had never considered it a description for herself.

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

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

annoying.”

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

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

“Considerate and understanding?”

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

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

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

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

you through more efficient work.

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

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

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

more you’ve won.”

Cicely’s gaze turned distant.

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

The more it hurts, the more she wins.

Savoring Santino’s words, Cicely smiled.

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

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

Cicely remained noncommittal.

After all, actors portray life in all its facets.

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

for a while.”

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

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

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

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

gratitude.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

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

Santino seemed quite pleased with the idea.

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

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

wedding photos.

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

There were two photos.

One was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

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

suggest such a clichéd stance.

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

might take in the future.

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

of its authenticity.

“Great, wrap it up for me.”

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

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

Actually, he was completely taken aback.

“Just two wedding photos?”

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

fitting.”

Santino nodded in understanding.

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

sunglasses, he was recognized.

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

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

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

Congratulations, you look stunning.”

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

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

you?”

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

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

he proposed with is the same brand you endorse.”

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

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

photo with her.

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

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

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

all the best.”

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

They both chuckled at the apparent misunderstanding.

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

Santino took them casually.

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

picture on social media?”

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

“Thank you.”

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

“Any plans now?” he asked.

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

ago.

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

and rejecting her lunch.

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

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

needs, including trips to the bathroom.

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

very noon.

Santino was right.

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

If not for her, then for someone else.

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

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

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

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

there.”

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

Issac dismissed the caregiver Seth had arranged for Danielle and replaced

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

even the unexpected ones, had been meticulously arranged.

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

the call and dialed Cicely’s number.

— Powered off.

His brow furrowed, and he then called the apartment.

Enter title…

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

yet.”d2

“Alright,” Seth replied coolly.

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

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

been dining out quite often lately.”

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

“Sure thing.”

*

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

past two years.

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

didn’t skimp on expenses.

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

lighting and the sound quality were top-notch.

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

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

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

interest.

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

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

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

Boring.

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

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

recognized her.

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

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

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

with the staff.

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

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

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

excruciating detail?”

“Not quite.”

Cicely sighed. “Sounds dull.”

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

“It better be the best meal ever.”

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

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

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

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

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

personified.

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

caught their attention.

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

responsible for Santino’s interview was curious about her.

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

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

opportunity that they were just friends.

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

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

up a frenzy.

Their plans did not include a love affair for Santino.

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

Cicely was after the interview.

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

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

was already dark outside.

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

seeing him, they erupted into excited screams.

Santino waved back with a smile.

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

anxious.

“Santino, who is she?”

“Is she your new assistant?”

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

chaos, explaining that they were just friends.

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

moment.

Some fans even started crying on the spot.

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

detached amusement.

“What a spectacle,” she remarked.

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

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

find them ridiculous?”

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

suffocating.”

Cicely narrowed her eyes, “How so?”

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

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

happy.”

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

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

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

later.”

Cicely understood; such people did exist.

“That does sound suffocating.”

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

interested in the topic at all.

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

they’ll be returned to you shortly.”

Cicely did as instructed.

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

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

Cicely was genuinely intrigued.

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

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

dish she had seen in a movie.

*

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

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

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

she glanced towards the door.

“Sir, you’re back.”

“Yes. Where is she?”

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

She had thought the couple would come home together.

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

phone and continued to call Cicely.

Voicemail.

It had been voicemail all afternoon.

He turned and dialed Charlie’s number instead.

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

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

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

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

Hollywood-themed diner.”

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

speechless.

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

online. You’ll see.”

Online.

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

overwhelming.

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

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

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

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

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

who knew her could recognize her without a doubt.

Seth’s eyes were cold and terrifying.

Carly shivered from where she stood.

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

turning to walk into the living room.

“Carly, you can head home.”

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

instructions.

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

“I’ll take care of it.”

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

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

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

still simmering on the stove.

*

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

frequently on his watch.

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

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

uncomfortable it will be for you.”

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

Santino fell silent.

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

He was trending.

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

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

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

Santino didn’t make much of it.

After dinner, Santino handed her a scarf.

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

recognized.”

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

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

When they stepped out, Santino shielded Cicely behind him.

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

Who was she?

Was Santino in love?

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

The assistant tried to explain, to no avail.

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

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

displeasure was clear.

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

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

to know who.”

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

persistent journalists.

Santino pulled Cicely away.

*

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

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

pulling up to the apartment building.

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

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

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

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

man opposite her.

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

building.

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

around his neck.

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

tightened as he turned away from the window.

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

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

with his back to her.

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

coat, then bending down to change her shoes.

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

with a detached gaze.

Cicely glanced at him and gathered her statically charged hair.

“Did you come back early today?”

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

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

toward the bedroom while tying it up.

“You can wash your hands outside too.”

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

lingered on him for even a second.

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

within him, his voice tense and cold.

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

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

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

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

toward the bedroom.

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

bedroom entrance.

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

“What are you doing?”

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

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

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

“Drinking again?”

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

I’m tired and want to rest early.”

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

face in her neck.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seth had never been treated like this before.

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

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

her onto the bed.

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

to the mattress.

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

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

breath a chilling mix of anger and frost.

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

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

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

you’re expecting from me?

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

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

Her lips twisted into a defiant smirk.

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

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

into some heartless jerk?”

Enter title…

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

She had actually considered all of this.

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

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

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

Danielle go?”

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

and dripping with sarcasm.

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

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

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

Seth remained silent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

my face and laugh at my failure.

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

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

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

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

mockery.

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

Whether Cicely liked him was always clear.

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

o why did he lose control tonight?

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

her face.

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

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

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

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

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

such things so easily.

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

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

they’re worthless.”

Her expression briefly turned chillingly cold and dismissive before she pushed

him away and left for the bathroom without a word.

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

*

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

hair, clearly post-shower as well.

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

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

changed by Seth.

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

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

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

with a calm expression.

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

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

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

window.

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

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

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

“Right.”

“Good. I trust you.”

What other choice did she have?

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

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

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

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

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

Seth paused, then pulled her into his arms.

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

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

her through and through.

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

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

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

arms still tight around her.

Would she leave him?

How could she?

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

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

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

way to mend or fill it.

*

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

point to check in at the apartment in person.

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

and had woken up early.

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

the door for Charlie.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Charlie caught the keys deftly and immediately went downstairs.

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

room.

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

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

was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

hang them up.”

“Sure thing.”

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

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

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

remembering when.

Her tone suggested she was in a good mood.

“A bit to the right.”

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

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

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

bullets.

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

steady.

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

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

ought to have built some rapport.”

Charlie nearly leapt out the nearby window.

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

“Time to eat.”

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

left. There, that’s perfect.”

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

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

“Time for breakfast.”

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

After breakfast, Seth and Cicely left the apartment together.

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

to the office.

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

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

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

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

the affair that the matter finally settled.

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

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

had deliberately quashed the story.

Cicely didn’t dwell on it.

Once it was over, it was over.

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

caused.

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

it was best to let it go.

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

her.

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

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

evenings.

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

his work.

His efficiency visibly increased.

Yet, it was clear he was getting tired.

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

find reasons to be understanding and to feel for them.

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

accommodate them.

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

want to see him exhausted.

Thankfully, it was only for a week.

*

Cicely spent a day resting at home during the holiday.

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

trouble at the hospital again.]

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

leading to another emotional breakdown.

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

was all an act to garner attention.

It had worked for her before.

Danielle’s room was in disarray.

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

deliberate mess.

Cicely visited around noon, bringing lunch from home.

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

shifting to a feigned calm as she faced Cicely coldly.

“Here to gloat over me again?”

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

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

around?”

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

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

someday.”

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

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

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

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

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

your grand design.”

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

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

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

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

remember, Danielle, you still owe me.”

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

and arranged the lunch before Danielle.

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

smirk forming on her lips as she turned to Cicely.

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

me with kindness?”

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

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

use that term to describe me?”

Danielle’s face turned sour with malice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

anger and agitation.

get all worked up, you know. Getting

up bedridden for life, Seth and I will

Enter title…

coldly and then

for life, you’ll never be able to

off.”d2

eyes flickered slightly as she looked at Danielle, who seemed

faint smile. “How shameless

you, even if you wish

Even blood relatives fed up after

do you think you are

decades to live? How patient do you

out? Or rather, do you think Seth could ever

someone disabled?”

as she glared at Cicely. Each word

to her

you’re

dream of running away. You were so proud, weren’t

dig you up from your grave and lash your

you get better soon,

don’t blame me for bullying

the neatly

but Cicely’s icy, detached

you, I wouldn’t starve myself just to spite

willing to eat, that’s if you

annoying.”

lift, it froze in place. To

Cicely would win.

appetite. Please, leave

by. “Keep an

she eats

“Understood.”

took a deep

her again, turning towards the door to leave.

the door swung open from

darkening as the man who entered caught

Cicely brought a surge of intense hatred to his

returned from the restroom, rushed in,

front of Cicely.

behind Issac, furrowed her brows as she

door. She reached out and

feeling any

stiffened, his teeth clenched as he glared at

mixed with rage.

you think you’re misdirecting your

the one who nearly took advantage of me that night when

even come to settle that score yet, and here you are looking as if

castrated you myself.”

words hit

stammered, “Seth never told you what really

night?”

gaze lowered slightly, “Does what he say negate

raped me?”

a faint smile, she added, “I’m aware of

genuinely regret it. Let’s put our

your facts straight. It was your

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

Let’s not make her situation

exchange, could hardly believe

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

Of course, I know Danielle

so?” Cicely nodded with a smile,

I’ll take my

the

him

yesterday, but I

her hands until her

brought back the chaos of that night,

so vivid and terrifying that even the mere thought of it made

shudder.

“Miss?”

the memories, “It seems Mr. Ray is quite

been skeptical. A rich playboy, surrounded by a constant

suddenly proclaiming true feelings for

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

family

It’s clear she

accident was orchestrated by his family for her

at the

much he’d nearly get her killed?

*

Ray stood by Danielle’s

“I’m sorry, I had no idea it would

to give Ray

her fork clumsily, she shoveled food into her mouth

indifference.

a dog-eat-dog world. Regardless of the

her plate. “Is it really necessary to go

happening to him now, and

least a chance for

blown it for good.”

his

orchestrated the downfall of

you not to be fooled by his act. His

what you can imagine. My dad said the

agency, he had his sights set on

run by a guy who

things to make everyone relax

fatal blow. He played innocent

wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve

for you, and if Cicely hadn’t shown

receiving end

drained of color. She had pondered this question before,

delve into it. She didn’t

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

“I know you wouldn’t believe it,

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

road ahead. I came

to ask

look up, her voice restrained and flat.

front of that car for him, was it truly

was it just

turned to look at Ray. “Does it

with a motive, my only desire was to win him

“It’s

to be so obstinate. If you

severe, would you still have stepped

set her fork down and looked up at him.

are

lips

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

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

you off. If I had died, what would be

true or not, that’s the answer

in front of me

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

can’t, I need to

had never seen Ray this composed yet so obsessively insane.

trembled slightly. She was

to lose, there was no telling what

to.

*

of the elevator on the ground floor, only to

across the

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

furrowed imperceptibly when he

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

a familiar, faint smile

“You hate hospitals. What are

had another episode. Came to

silence, she glanced at him coolly.

in bullying a cripple,

long after Cicely arrived at the

side, instantly grasped what Seth was worried about. “Mr.

to check on Miss Danielle,

lately. She thought it might give you a

faltered for

the scarf around her neck, presenting only her profile to

at the corners of her eyes and lips

moods are volatile, and your presence

even leading to harm.”

light smile. “I have Issac with me.

hurt me when I’m

sooner she recovers,

ties with her.”

know,” Cicely replied, hands tucked into

why I braved

overt anger, just

the more she displayed it, the clearer Seth could sense

sarcasm and rebellion.

out to pull

just a

Cicely stepped aside, avoiding his touch. “Whether

have the time to join me. And as it happens,

meal with

blunt rejection, Seth’s complexion

question floated into Seth’s ears,

he looked

leave room for an answer,

conclusion in

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

into the car and pondered for a

Dad at

“Alright.”

gates of the Ellis family

the sprawling manor,

The dark green pines stood tall but failed to bring

vitality.

furrowed her brows, and the already somewhat suppressed

got out of the car and walked towards the

with servants occasionally moving about in silence.

to be cautious. “Miss,

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

didn’t you give us a heads

upstairs,

too long ago and

he’s fallen asleep.”

he have for

made some buckwheat

her ascent up the stairs, turning to look at Brody

step, “And what else?”

hesitated, “There were a couple of side

as she turned and headed straight for

ordered the servants to bring out what Creighton

the brownish buckwheat

salad of carrots and celery,

of ham and cheese.

the back of a nearby chair, she lifted her

prepared for my

to reply, their heads lowered in

said helplessly, “Sir has been

he specifically asked for these dishes. Even if we prepared

folks’ meals are

no

doubt his words, but in her memories,

dining table was always a feast of

study, she found Creighton slumped in

book resting on his chest, his head tilted, seemingly asleep.

Cicely, and

one master. That

corner for his

over heels in love, insisting

father alone

blamed herself deeply in

wake Creighton, gently covering

out of the study.

nap

something with the servants, his face

rascal, why didn’t you tell

secrets to hide before I

her. “You’re not fighting with Seth again,

many quarrels?” Cicely

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

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

for dinner

him. He listens to you more

to me.”

talk

stayed glued to Creighton for the rest of the afternoon.

demanding

amused and exasperated.

son squared off

chiming in

“Silence is golden; don’t

and bustling, and

The entire Ellis family seemed to have returned to how

be.

Creighton

to make it back. Creighton frowned, giving her

glance, “Are you two really

exasperated, “Just hope for us to be alright,

Creighton relented.

Cicely still sent Seth a message.

coming home tonight.]

wasn’t about to create a dramatic runaway

all, she

anything amiss.

she didn’t wait up

eight, Seth showed up at the Ellis estate’s

and moved to assist Seth with his coat. “Why

imply for me to

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

know.”

unavoidable, there’s no reason for a married couple

invitation for us to stay

could respond, he had pulled her into his embrace and they

the living room. “Good

closeness, smiled,

few days,

“Not yet.”

staff whip up a few dishes. Cicely, take

all tailored to

joining him for dinner, but as she

with the inexplicable stares of her father and Seth in the

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

in, “You two aren’t fighting, are

a deep breath, “Just came out to grab my

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

headed back to

Enter title…

have anticipated her return to dine with him,

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

Ellis family estate isn’t as cozy as

gripped her water bottle, her expression nonchalant. “There’s

for

brow as he methodically

down

explain

that you’ve explained it, it’s even

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

over the same

mouth with a napkin, “So

just on a

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

time. In fact, on my way

my dad

for me, but he could use some company. Are these reasons

prove I’m not fighting with

face was impassive, her lips curled in

hearing the last part, coupled with her

placed on the

noon.

he believe it? If not,

amusement. “If you want to

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

home,

took a sip from his water glass. “As

by his easy acquiescence, but the feeling was

disagreed today, it wouldn’t

Cicely came to understand why he mentioned inconvenience and

such an easy compromise.

joined Cicely’s father and

their conversation would be

matters.

browsed her shopping app for

and notebooks with pens. Not that

she liked doodling when

the servant opened it to find Charlie, shrouded

frost, stepping inside. “Ms. Cicely,

at him, “How heartless, sending you out in

middle of the

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

matters. You can

just have an errand. Mr. Seth asked me to bring some

be on my way

finally looked up, turned around,

quickly directed the servant to

suitcase upstairs.

linger, bidding

glass of

upstairs.

have to talk about for so long without

had refilled their water

went to the

drawn. It had been a while since she’d indulged

temperature, she slid into the tub and let out

was a view

by rotating ground lights. It seemed they

especially for her return.

boredom, she had asked her father to install

years, glimpsing at them had become a habit during her

the bathtub, staring at

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

over her eyes.

essential oil dripped into the water, soothing her fatigue. With the

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

felt a sudden chill.

coolness, and she instinctively slid down

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

to see the

side of the tub.

to be the first to drown in

it was by the man who had appeared

room had

feel cold.

tried to shake off his

he stood next to her and began to undress in

“What

without missing a beat, dropping his clothes

do

the tub to cover

she was scooped up

to her chest and glared up at him. “Seth! What

to do?”

at the woman in his arms, her face flushed from

than usual. He smirked, planting a soft

that was low and

deflated embarrassingly, “You

without drowning.”

softly. Compared to her

a prickly aura, he preferred her current bold, even if

demeanor.

began to run his fingers through her wet

hair for

“No.”

the

waited for her consent before turning on the shower. A surge

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

that Cicely lacked principles, but that this man had a hundred ways

before it

inch, as the

yanked away by

arms crossing in front of her, trying to cover up

modesty she could.

lathered shampoo into her hair with patience, massaging

her close into his chest to rinse it clean with the

and eyes closed, Cicely considered that

there were more than a couple of

for

applied conditioner to her hair, he nudged her toward the wall to

a quick

with a cool expression, Cicely asked,

Are you planning to

there any

a trek from here to the

insist on staying here. I can’t exactly haul you back against

will.”

of anger tinged

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

earlier is nothing compared to spending

better.”

can’t sleep by

gaze drifted leisurely over her face and

contours of her body.

imperceptibly, and he reached out

warm water from the shower

to prevent water from flowing

on his succinct and cryptic response, which left her

insistent pressing

realization, Seth had already set the showerhead aside, his

should

tightened, “Let go. I can dry

not going

Seth’s lips closed over hers abruptly.

he moved with a familiarity that

bit her lip, afraid she’d scream out. She

than pain. “This

told you it wasn’t convenient, but you seemed not to

keep it down in a

wrapped around his waist, and as the

until she was on the

turning off the hairdryer and slipping

She turned away from him, her soft hair

other side of the bed, facing

turn away, his long arm scooped her

knowing he’d only persist

exhausted to

*

The next day.

already gone. The

faded, with new ones added from last

considerate, gentle, and protective—or so

tend to it. Yet now,

all too pleased.

and slipping into her loose loungewear,

groggy and listless, she

exercise and were already two

Cicely, Creighton shook his head with

really should fix

the servant, sipped half

“Sleeping in is the best part of

Skipping breakfast is bad for your health, and too much

most important meal. Why are

didn’t you leave

left Cicely speechless for a

office. Why would I leave with

Perfect timing with your holiday. You could learn a thing

at the company instead of ending

showing clear reluctance. “No, he

he

quite good at passing

he really

that she genuinely didn’t know, Creighton dropped the

your grandfather to see Danielle.

come?”

the couch,

a blend of elegance and lazy

you’ll have lunch by yourself at

were already leaving her to eat

come up several times at

as if leaving her alone in the hospital while the rest of them

a table was incredibly inappropriate

visit

say

have a problem with

for

first, while Cicely

room before going up to her bedroom, where Seth was busy

desk.

the bathroom, and upon

behind her. After a quick shower, she emerged to

into bed to play with

had finished his work. He

on the bed, walked over, brushed

peck on the lips.

Wait for

“How horny can you be? It’s been

you up to?”

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

rest tonight?”

mumbled, “Then what

there are plenty of things

pushed him gently, “Then

by her, Seth’s body pressed down,

with unrestrained

She lifted her hands and started

letting out a soft whimper. It was only

on her, just barely.

kiss me to death?”

off guard with their unintentional cuteness,

to death? I wouldn’t dream of it.

he said with a

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

face just inches from hers.

penalty for

me? Shouldn’t I consider

face held the same amused expression, yet

me

tilted her head, calmly and seriously meeting his gaze.

because I’m so into you, any punishment

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

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

give me

her hand across his face,

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

the emotion in her eyes, Seth felt a subtle stir in

smooth chin,

moved from

it, “But have you ever heard, love

the start, the more they might hate them

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

her eyes and brows soft with flirtation,

comes, which I doubt it will. I wouldn’t

felt like a bee sting to the nerve, his

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

two buttons that Cicely had

unfastened the rest.

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

turned to leave and then paused, “If you’re

you up my way.”

out what his method of waking her might be.

Seth emerged from the shower, Cicely was

a video game. She glanced at

game.

and snatched the phone from her hands.

something you need to tell

join me at the office

he swiped and tapped on her

know anything about business, what

do there?”

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

in

I have to

think your dad

you for no

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

or in the future, your only sure

manage the Ellis family forever. If

moment and start eating away at you, swallowing

family, you won’t even know where to cry. Don’t be naive,

around you

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

in your

quietly, “What makes you insecure? You

leave you? Or maybe you want to leave me

to her, his gazes were

like you’re quite convinced you’ve fallen for

who leaves a trail of broken

just saying. But beyond these two reasons,

improve,

shifted, the shadow in their depths replaced by a shallow

quick to assume. In fact, instead

reflecting on why I harbor

“I’ve downloaded some files to your email.

before sleep,

understand tomorrow.”

took the phone, the document app he had just downloaded for

text. “What will you be

her, then got out of bed, lifting the covers.

Naturally, I can’t stay by your side and

mood.”

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

all too well; it wasn’t about reflection.

a tantrum.

＊

stayed in his study for two hours. Approaching eleven at

his face looking worse

lights had dimmed, leaving only a nightlight

sleeping with the phone in her arms,

reignited.

Heartless woman.

bed, taking the phone from her hand and glanced at

she hadn’t closed.

he’d opened for her

face

wonder Creighton was in a rush to

and tossing it aside, he watched the woman sleep

face cold as he pulled her

man’s arms and scent, shifted comfortably

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

Seth wanted to wake her up,

fell silent

petty.

＊

he woke Cicely with a kiss that

cup of strong coffee. Even for school, Cicely

Already prone to morning grumpiness, she was

robbed of breath.

a couple of times.

mind?!”

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

off to the

I am not going.” Cicely yanked the comforter

your face.” Seth’s

Cicely didn’t budge.

gonna make me do this

Cicely flung the comforter off

strength could she muster

a pillow

and the pillow barely registered

I’m not

pillow, and placed

I don’t see you up by the

me to wake you up for the second time,

back to sleep.”

her teeth in frustration. As Seth

into a sly

threw the covers aside and stomped off to

toothpaste onto

reflection in the mirror.

subtle raise of his eyebrows, he shifted aside

Seth, as if on cue,

glanced at their reflection. Seth nonchalantly placed the toothpaste

aside.

task, she started brushing. It was not like she

something as simple as toothpaste.

slight smile of

to the

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

to know anything.

So what am I supposed to do at the

just smiled

understood why

desk and chair in the corner, waiting

immediate deployment.

computer; you can

face away, “Computers have

to anticipate this excuse, “There

matter what excuse

an answer for it. Reluctantly, she moved to the

pile of folders.

and we can go over

you be

a

leaving me

there wolves in

the reading; I’ll

mouth to retort

at her before

had been darting around, a clear sign she was up to

possibly stir

after Seth left, Cicely did take

marks with her pen, but

and her

left the office,

the drawers, fiddled

a black

phone and

and

returned before noon. Cicely sat

student.

you get through?” he

bit challenging since it’s new to me,

a whole morning and you’re proud of

stung.

that I’m even sitting here is

noticing the

open, he found her doodles—a

in a confident,

saw her ‘artwork’ and flushed slightly, but quickly

nonchalance.

took a deep breath, “Anything

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

away. Seth waited for an

hungry,” she declared as

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

Come over here.”

No complaints

clutched the files

long arm pulled her into an embrace. “What the heck,

said, leaning

waist, his voice

taking liberties

“What do you mean?”

the day, you’d

tutor you. Sweet and respectful. Now, you

half-hearted attitude.

is?”

arched an eyebrow, “Respectful?

and it’s intentional, Mr.

of impunity, but Seth had

harboring intentions towards me

current relationship, that

Seth was momentarily speechless.

feeling victorious, smiled, “What’s

it’s

leaned back in

expression and voice

Cicely watched him—

was annoyed

by Charlie from a local diner, indeed Cicely’s

have no intention of joining

“Aren’t you eating?”

out by

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

suffused with the

a big deal’.

to eat all this by myself?”

with food, while he didn’t even bother to

her way.

it, leave it. Nobody said you had to

eyes and huffed, “Then I guess

tonight.”

up at her with an

onto the couch and picked up the

to sleep together every night. If you

wait until you’re

“How long

attitude with me?”

it you who’s been in

to keep butting

on her silverware tightened before relaxing.

continued to watch

with me, and I’ll sleep

Seth fell silent.

*

Ellis Corporation since

had stayed in

off, but under Seth’s watchful

department heads

reports and progress reviews, the

Ellis family, even if it was

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

approached, Cicely found most of

trembling, overly respectful demeanors

word. She hadn’t made much progress with the

hadn’t commented on it.

for a bit. Mom’s

in a while.”

twitched, “I should probably let

I’ve already told

to the door

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

when it came down to it, Cicely knew she had to

just deal with things as they come. If Patty was

to steer clear. It wasn’t like it

wasn’t her

naturally, Cicely

the door. She cozied

around Seth’s.

them some tea

Enter title…

take a call and returned after a few

Cicely. He took a sip of warm water from

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

fascinating about my face?”d2

been told if

him always

hadn’t even mentioned

twirled a strand of her hair, her

“I overheard General Manager from

talking about this new mechanical equipment

socks off the old

has the

got a point. Instead of bidding and choosing another manufacturer, why

hand the deal over to Diaz International? Given

and the Ellis family, why haven’t you considered

fish like the Harper family, and the

all eyeing the Ellis project. Diaz International

with the Ellis family’s

Ellis family picks Diaz International, the

Seth, so many would kill for

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

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

with the Ellis family?”

Ellis Corporation, I can say that

the Watsons are all more fitting partners

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

make things easier for Diaz

surprised by his stance. “What’s wrong with

counts. Why

for you, I’ll bang

a half-smile.

scared to take the big deals, too

running Diaz International? Might as well

swallow it up. That way, you

Hmm, that’s actually a

she thought about it, the more feasible

eyes but said

propped her chin in

go through with that? Assess

in the

to me personally, and I’ll cut

shares. How

all this

in Diaz International?”

me, if

your mother, it’s probably Diaz International, left

your father. You know, I’ve been thinking that I

that gives me an edge over you.

might just be it.”

and unfathomable

the last bit of Diaz International. So what if I

leaned back on the sofa, with a carefree smile

to let

thin lips tightened, clearly displeased with

just smiled thinly. “Then isn’t

under the Ellis family banner the

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

Cicely, a familiar tone that

then switched on her

standing opposite her, her face a stormy mix of

wariness.

was just thinking out loud. Then I figured it wasn’t such a bad idea after

family ain’t too shabby, right? Especially since

No need to keep things so

future is the future. You bite off

don’t even think about laying

International.”

an eyebrow, her eyes

wasn’t bringing

since Seth had already stood up, his

go.”

probably mindful of

suppressing a multitude of

they had dinner at the Diaz residence,

dining with Patty might be the real

the night was out of the

the drive back to the Ellis residence, Seth took the wheel while

you off

“Same as today.”

me alone in the office

there, I’ll

against the car window, twirling a strand of

her slender finger.

for a few seconds before slowly speaking,

a half-smile, “Should I

you?”

“No need,

Seth fell silent.

butler welcomed them respectfully. “Miss, we

for you today; they’ve been temporarily

them now, I can bring them

and said, “Well, bring

Cicely sat cross-legged in the

to slice

knife.

them were small items – mugs,

not only unpacked them but

instruction manuals was many times more

when she read documents.

down to find

“Go freshen up; we’re up

handed him a white travel tumbler. “This

and engraved on it was a portrait

Beside her was a

of the items were pairs, hers in

light.

think of

back this time did I realize there are no traces of

it feels

the small items,

natural thing in the world. Seth didn’t say

to get some

the white tumbler in the

contentedly.

Ellis estate and setting the staff to work, Seth drove

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

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

department heads yesterday.

she set the paperwork aside, paced the office, and then

knock on the door.

laden with parcels. “Ms. Cicely,

addressed to you.”

till now, perked up at

in Seth’s chair, she resumed her task with the craft

noon, Seth returned to an office

holder, several stylographs, a fresh mouse

couple of notebooks.

corner mirrored his, albeit with a

with a cushion on the

of flowers had even appeared

to question the wisdom of leaving

she’d done nothing out of the ordinary, asked

for lunch

countered, “How much work

hesitantly added a fourth, “Four

a few keys on the computer, bringing up

bit of Cicely’s

everything but work.

No surprise there.

and Cicely, unaware of its

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

closed the video.

closer, seeing a screen full of

progress today, spent the whole

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

objects on

take you

prospect of escaping the office for a meal was

*

afternoon, Seth stayed at the

summoning staff for

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

affairs, she couldn’t help but

it was time for the

a hectic affair.

and C&P were arranged to hold

same day, at the

towers, linked by sky bridges. The topfloor ballrooms were split between the

the other

was just below Diaz International’s—a floor

with the Ellis Corporation.

in a silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress with

pair of silver high-heeled shoes, and

elaborately dressed as others, she still stood out as the most eyecatching in the dazzling

moment of her birth, Cicely seemed destined

in design, yet undeniably

her side was distractingly handsome, a sight that made

onlookers to look away. Cicely had

to the Diaz International gala to make the rounds,

deliver the expected pleasantries, to

her away

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

father present, the spotlight

Seth and Cicely’s arrival at the Ellis

and well-wishes, almost like a bride and groom

their guests, receiving blessings and

seats, Cicely mused

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

are taking care

chin in her hand, Cicely teased

are a lot

coolly, “And plenty of

to

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

have considered it.”

just want to admire the pretty

day I’ll

personal viewing.”

the C&P

profile there,

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

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

up to

patient man, unwilling to waste time

ingratiate themselves with him.

star-studded gala was a magnet for

absence from the C&P event was deliberate, with plenty

after, Charlie hurriedly

Ray got

commotion over at Diaz

demeanor darkened. As

his wrist,

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

before following Charlie out.

him until he was out of sight, then

gala, Ray was slouched on

bottle of hard liquor. His

he greeted Seth with a sneer, using the steps for

his feet

emphasizing each syllable with a bitterness that seemed

with venom. “You’re impressive,

flashing

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

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

never provoked you;

you coveted what the we had, you seized

on the

hung in the air, the implications clear to

Seth’s tactics, about how Ray’s family had

a whim because Ray had once made an indecent pass

fiancée, this had

against Ray .

that it had

to

are still a shareholder in

leave this place immediately.”

when Ray’s family had

after waking from a hospital stay, clung stubbornly to

ten percent.

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

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

I can’t tarnish it. Just as

to you. You destroyed my company, so tell me,

International, let you taste the bitterness

today?”

Ray with icy detachment, “If

makes you think you

strip away the last shred

the drunken stupor in his

he might lunge at

vengeful fury.

the table next to

shattered, sending sharp shards

pierced through the festive

to skip a beat. Instinctively, her feet

heels

the jagged remains of the bottle at

and she let out a breathless

forward, pulling Seth’s arm and embracing

spun half a circle

Seth, her

fell onto Seth’s hand, and

arms seemed about to

moment.

collective gasp reverberated throughout the banquet

Cicely to intervene, felt

on

arm stood out, and his face, usually

blade, seething with a murderous

glared at Ray.

shot through Cicely’s arm and

she gripped his clothes tightly,

she managed to

tall.

as it landed on her

a resounding slap, Cicely slapped him. Stunned, he

drunk and not thinking straight. Have you had too much

provoking him will do you now? What if he really

you?!”

and though her voice carried anger,

clear tremble.

the physical

her eyes made it clear to him—she

fear, anger, or

gripped his heart

resting on a clear cut on her right

“Where else are you

lip, and tears fell from

restlessness swirled within Seth.

voice,

seemed to crumble under Seth’s growl,

and broke

my ankle hurts,” she whispered, recalling

her last

and, with a grimace, bent down to scoop

his arms.

had been tackled to the

with a knee on his back, restraining his

beside Seth and was quick to react when

cry had caused him

had swung past

swiftly, Cicely had

Ray, pinned down by Charlie and

shout at Seth’s retreating figure with

arrogant. One day, you’ll pay for everything

done!”

falter in

*

Erik and

frenzy.

and a two-centimeter laceration on her

shallow, but not too

treated, her wounds bandaged, and

red and swollen

and Creighton, she greeted them with

“Dad.”

phone call and returned to the room. Charlie had

local police station for the time being. Seth gave a brief nod to the Erik and Creighton.

concern for

his concern, which he channeled

hardship in her

year, this happens! Seth,

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

listen and followed

her a glare. “Am I not allowed to speak my

Enter title…

“It hurts now, and it’ll still hurt if you scold him,

pain stop,

said, cutting himself off mid-sentence. She had

words were stuffed

he not see through her

Cicely, her hair somewhat disheveled

gala when

shield him

Totally unexpected.

anger now took on a

could process these

the doctor, then stepped

saw Cicely with red eyes and

be, then she lifted her arms and wrapped them around

knees, lifting her from

a slight sense of peace to

watching.

Seth

to the Ellis residence

all, she had never

after the gala, Seth stayed at the Ellis

Cicely company.

washing up – any time

never leaving her side. Apart from the servants’

impeccable in his

complaint-free actions were bittersweet

from the bathroom to the bed

waiting.

the

in pressure and Cicely would wince.

the man beside her, who seemed to make

tense as a

any sitting with Creighton that lasted more

turned to business

in her room, insisted Seth take her with

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

most of their

heard them talk about the mechanical manufacturing issues of

family.

the deal which

to after

asked Seth if Diaz International was interested

as it had been initially

mirrored Cicely’s. However, Creighton didn’t dwell

on to other matters.

in company

to Seth’s voice and being able to look

the Ellis residence just before the new year. After

had been injured

airs at this time. But Patty’s complexion

on

lavish dinner for her.

brought up the topic of

to the Diaz family for the

Patty’s mood didn’t match the generosity

were legally

residence was the most appropriate and normal thing

a moment, glanced at the young couple,

somewhat absent-mindedly.

Creighton’s reaction, suddenly felt a deep

she was not at home, the vastness of the

had returned to spend a

festive gatherings, would

*

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

residence.

to pick up Danielle

agreed that leaving Danielle

Year was too heartless. After negotiating with the doctor,

to bring

the image of two old people spending

each other, feels

Danielle might liven things up, serving as company for

of Danielle’s haughty,

might be

had been bustling since

for

feast knowing

the hospital.

residence, encountered Danielle, who should

Her face immediately

chatting happily with Danielle. When she saw Seth carrying

her expression paused for

smiling.

in her wheelchair, also had a momentary freeze upon

shadow crossed her face, but she brushed

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

here?” Seth asked,

Cicely onto the couch. His voice was

storm.

lip, hands clasped tightly, not

couldn’t leave her all alone in

holidays, could we?”

a surge of anger rising in her chest, but she

best not to let her emotions flare out of

for her discharge. If anyone

the Ellis family. You

“Patty is being polite, but don’t you even

ashamed?”

turned even more mortified after that brief,

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

was barely able to contain her fury. “The guest I

here. Danielle got herself injured saving Seth’s life. We owe

repay. What’s wrong with inviting her

taking care of her every single day of the

sneer. “By

play the damsel

the Ellis family’s dinners even

with anger, and she

finger pointed at Cicely. “This is the

that

her?”

don’t take your dissatisfaction out on

it you who’s making

“You…”

deep voice

light and smiling, settled on a glass

quietly awaited Seth’s

you here to celebrate, not to start a scene

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