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

for life, Seth and I

Enter title…

and then

disabled for life, you’ll

off.”d2

slightly as she looked at

faint smile. “How shameless

wish for a life of disability, the

Seth. Even blood relatives fed up

important do you think you are

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

and day out? Or rather, do you think Seth

someone disabled?”

lips trembled violently as she glared at Cicely. Each word was

to her most vulnerable

for a second that you’re

of running away. You were so

I will dig you up from your

soon, you might

me

the neatly laid out food before

detached voice rang

I were you, I wouldn’t starve myself just

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

annoying.”

to lift, it froze in place.

Cicely would win.

appetite. Please,

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

she eats

“Understood.”

a

again, turning towards the

could take two steps, the door

expression darkening as the

sight of Cicely brought a surge of intense hatred to

from the restroom, rushed in,

front of Cicely.

her brows as she

he opened the door. She reached out and pushed Issac

Ray, feeling any

teeth clenched as he glared

mixed with rage.

smiled, “Mr. Ray, don’t you

of me

yet, and here you are

castrated you myself.”

hit

Ray stammered, “Seth never told you what really

night?”

lowered slightly, “Does what he

raped me?”

with a faint smile, she added, “I’m aware of Mr. Ray’s

put our

straight. It was your drunken folly that night

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

Let’s not make her situation any

listening to the exchange, could hardly

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

know Danielle is the

with a smile, “Then I

cleared up, I’ll

left the hospital

him accountable. He’s been

yesterday, but I didn’t

her hands until her knuckles

back the chaos of that

so vivid and terrifying that even the

shudder.

“Miss?”

away the memories, “It seems Mr. Ray is

skeptical. A rich playboy, surrounded by a

suddenly proclaiming true feelings for one

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

perhaps. With his family on the brink, he’s willing to

charade for Danielle. It’s clear

orchestrated by

frowned at the

so much he’d nearly get her killed? That

*

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

“I’m sorry, I had no idea it

the mood to give Ray any

clumsily, she shoveled food into

indifference.

of the tactics used, your family

she said, not looking up from her plate. “Is

jugular? Nothing’s happening to him now, and your

least a chance for

blown it for good.”

hands were clenched so tight his knuckles

his forehead. “He orchestrated the

not to be

can imagine. My dad said the moment

started his agency, he had his sights set on bringing us

fledgling talent agency, run by a

to make everyone relax

fatal blow. He played innocent

night, I wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve never

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

the receiving

face drained of color. She had pondered this question before,

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

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

“I know you wouldn’t believe

with the

a rough road ahead. I came here today to

ask

her voice restrained and flat.

stepped in front of that car for him, was

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

mid-bite and finally turned to look at Ray.

Even with a motive, my only desire was to

“It’s

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

you still have

silence, Danielle set her fork down and looked

answer are

pressed his lips

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

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

you off. If I had died, what would be the point

or not, that’s

have to play the villain in front of me

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

can’t, I need

this composed yet so obsessively insane.

She was afraid of Ray in this

lose, there was no telling what kind of madness he

to.

*

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

standing across the

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

furrowed imperceptibly when

slackened for a moment then

a familiar, faint smile on her face.

hate

episode. Came to check

a brief silence, she glanced

in bullying a cripple, so

Cicely

instantly grasped what Seth

your behalf to check on

been lately. She thought it might give

gaze faltered for

her neck, presenting only her profile to him,

smile at the corners of

and your presence might

even leading to harm.”

with a light smile. “I have

me when I’m fully able

sooner she recovers, the sooner I can

ties with her.”

hands tucked into the

why I braved

No overt anger, just

the more she displayed it, the clearer Seth

sarcasm and rebellion.

out

just

avoiding his

you probably don’t have the time to join me. And as it happens, I don’t

sharing a meal with

such blunt rejection, Seth’s complexion

you ever trusted me?” The question

pause, he looked up to

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

conclusion in

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

the car and pondered for

visit Dad at

“Alright.”

car rolled through the gates of the Ellis family estate,

the window at the sprawling

stood tall but failed to bring

vitality.

and

the car and walked towards the villa. The

was empty, with servants occasionally moving about in

to be cautious.

sound of her arrival, a look

didn’t you give us

upstairs,

ago and was reading in the study. Not

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he have for

some buckwheat

her ascent up the stairs, turning to look

step, “And what else?”

a couple of

she turned and headed

face, she ordered the servants to bring out what

brownish buckwheat wraps

carrots and

of ham and cheese.

the back of a nearby chair, she lifted her gaze

you prepared for my father’s

too frightened to

“Sir has been

for these dishes.

folks’ meals are quite simple. When you’re

no need to cook

doubt his words,

dining table was always a feast of

Creighton slumped in

his chest, his head tilted, seemingly asleep.

sorrow hit Cicely, and her eyes

master. That

corner for

in love, insisting on living with

alone

blamed herself deeply

gently covering him with a blanket

out of the study.

his nap and came downstairs

the servants, his face lit up with an unmistakable

you tell me you were

got secrets to hide before

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

many quarrels?” Cicely laughed, linking

couch. “He’s busy

missing all the

over for dinner

have to ask him. He

to me.”

I’ll talk

glued to Creighton for the rest of the

playfully demanding

amused and exasperated.

squared

in with

is golden; don’t meddle in the

bustling, and even the servants

The entire Ellis family seemed to

be.

Creighton inquired

he was too busy to make it back. Creighton

“Are you two

for us to be alright,

Creighton relented.

Seth a message. [I’m at

coming home tonight.]

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

all, she couldn’t let Grandpa and Dad

anything amiss.

she didn’t wait up for

up at the Ellis estate’s

moved to assist Seth with his coat.

message imply for me to

rack, her voice

know.”

reason for a

your message as an invitation

pulled her into

living

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

these past few days,

“Not yet.”

have the staff whip up a few

all tailored to his

for dinner, but

inexplicable stares of her father and Seth in the

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

in, “You two aren’t fighting, are

deep breath, “Just came

way over to the coffee table,

back to the dining

Enter title…

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

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

family estate isn’t

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

for

flicker of emotion crossed Seth’s brow as he

set down his

explain

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

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

time over the same

with a napkin,

here just

some. I’m on holiday, but you’re

on time. In fact, on

my dad

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

not fighting with

was impassive, her lips curled in an almost imperceptible

last part, coupled with her subtle

placed on the question she

noon.

he believe it? If

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

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

home,

sip from his water

by his easy acquiescence, but the

he disagreed

came to understand why he mentioned inconvenience

such an easy compromise.

father and

conversation

matters.

for little home

notebooks with pens. Not that she

but she liked

servant opened it to

frost, stepping inside. “Ms.

sending you out in such cold

the night no

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

matters. You can

need, I just have an errand. Mr. Seth asked me to

be on my

turned around, and noticed a

seeing this, quickly

suitcase upstairs.

bidding farewell and

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

upstairs.

those men possibly have to talk about for

had refilled

to

It had been a while since she’d indulged in a good

water temperature, she slid into the tub

bathroom window was a view of the garden and

by rotating ground lights. It seemed they

especially for her return.

past, out of boredom, she had asked her father

years, glimpsing at them had become a

the bathtub, staring at that place for a

down against the edge of the tub,

over her eyes.

the water,

again. She drifted in and out of sleep

felt a sudden chill.

above the water felt the coolness, and

the towel from her eyes,

up to see the

side of the tub.

the first to drown in

was startled, but it was by the man who had

of the room had dissipated when he entered,

feel cold.

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

he stood next to her and began to undress

“What are you

a beat, dropping his clothes

one do in a

the towel beside the tub to

she could leave, she was scooped up into his

her chest and glared up

to do?”

down at the woman in his arms,

radiant than usual. He smirked,

with a voice that was low

deflated embarrassingly, “You should be able

without drowning.”

chuckled softly. Compared to her quiet, gentle demeanor, always

aura, he preferred her

demeanor.

her thorny retort, he began to run his fingers through her wet

hair

“No.”

of the shower interrupted Cicely’s

hadn’t waited for her consent before turning on the shower. A surge

Seth’s hand covered her eyes. “Close

principles, but that this man had

her anger before

inch, as

away by

her arms crossing in front of her,

modesty she could.

lathered shampoo into her hair with patience,

into his chest to rinse it clean with the handheld

her head lowered and eyes closed, Cicely considered that

there were more than

fallen for

to her hair, he nudged her toward

took a quick

expression, Cicely

planning to stay

any reason

quite a trek from here

staying here. I

will.”

of anger tinged

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

earlier is nothing compared to spending a whole night alone.

better.”

can’t sleep by

drifted leisurely

contours of her body.

imperceptibly, and he reached out to pull her

water from the shower cascading over

water from flowing into them, Cicely’s

and cryptic response, which left her

pressing against

had already set the showerhead aside,

against hers. “We should

“Let go.

not going

Cicely could react, Seth’s lips closed

apart, and he moved with a

out. She hit his

pain. “This

you it wasn’t convenient, but you seemed not to mind. Though, you

it down

wrapped around his waist, and as the room

until she was on the brink of

turning off the hairdryer and slipping

away from him, her soft hair

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

to turn away, his long

strength to resist, knowing he’d only persist

exhausted

*

The next day.

Cicely woke up, Seth was already gone. The

with new ones

protective—or so he seemed.

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

all too pleased.

slipping into her

listless, she found

from their morning exercise and were

Cicely, Creighton shook his head with

fix that habit

the milk offered by the servant, sipped half of it, and

the best part of a

Skipping breakfast is bad for your health, and too

is the most important meal. Why

didn’t you leave with

left Cicely speechless for a

to the office. Why would I leave

office, duh! Perfect timing with your holiday. You could learn a thing

instead of ending up clueless. What?

clear

he

at

he really

genuinely didn’t know, Creighton dropped the subject.

hospital with your grandfather to see Danielle. You want

come?”

the couch, resting

blend of elegance and

you’ll have lunch

they were

name had come up several times at the

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

inappropriate and

were set to visit

Anyone who dared say the Ellis family was

would have a problem

returned in time for dinner. His

he headed upstairs first, while Cicely sat with

her bedroom, where Seth

desk.

she went to the bathroom,

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

bed to play

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

walked over, brushed her

a gentle peck on the

Wait for me,

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

you up to?”

a hint of teasing, “What makes you

rest tonight?”

mumbled, “Then what am I

there are plenty of things we have

pushed him gently,

of being pushed away by her, Seth’s body pressed

penetrating with

found herself gasping for air. She lifted her hands and started

letting out a soft whimper.

on her, just barely.

kiss me to death?” she managed

Seth off guard with their unintentional cuteness, and a

I

me just now, Mrs. Diaz,” he

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

inches from hers. A gentle smile tinged

a penalty for self-justification, then what

I consider

held the same amused expression, yet

me any way you see

head, calmly and seriously meeting

pretty confident, thinking that because I’m so

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

curved jawline,

to give me a

her hand across

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

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

her smooth chin, “You

was candid, “Mm-hmm.” Her hand moved from his face to his

ever heard, love and

someone at the start, the more they might

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

her eyes and brows soft with flirtation, “Don’t

which I doubt it will.

sting to the nerve, his dark eyes fixed

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

buttons that Cicely had undone;

unfastened the rest.

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

“If you’re not obedient, I’ll

you up my way.”

desire to find out what his method of waking her

the shower, Cicely was propped up in

She glanced at him, then

game.

into bed and snatched the

strongly, “Is there something you need to

me at the office tomorrow

swiped and tapped

about business, what am I

do there?”

you wouldn’t need to tag along with me

thing in

I have

think your dad asking you

picking on you for no

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

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

won’t manage the Ellis family forever. If one day,

and start eating away at

even know where to cry. Don’t

you

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

isn’t it yours too?

only when truly in

watched him quietly, “What makes you insecure? You think one day

you want to leave

to her, his

“It sounds like you’re quite

a

these

didn’t improve, and he didn’t

in their depths

be so quick to assume. In fact, instead of you

be reflecting on why I harbor such

downloaded some files

you can before sleep, and

understand tomorrow.”

the document app he had

a blur of text. “What will you be

of bed, lifting the

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

mood.”

grab a coat, and walk out. Her face

well; it wasn’t about reflection. The

a tantrum.

＊

his study for two hours. Approaching eleven at

his face looking

the lights had dimmed, leaving only

with the phone in her arms, his

reignited.

Heartless woman.

from her hand and glanced at

she hadn’t closed.

was the same one he’d opened for her before leaving. He

sleeping face and

rush to

aside, he

his face cold as he pulled her

used to the man’s arms and scent, shifted comfortably against

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

a moment, Seth wanted to wake her up, maybe keep her up

sentence, she fell silent again, and any further

petty.

＊

he woke Cicely

cup of strong coffee. Even for school, Cicely

to morning grumpiness,

robbed of breath.

hard a couple of times. “Are you out of

mind?!”

flashed a mischievous grin as he swung his legs out of

off to the

Cicely yanked the comforter

Seth’s

Cicely didn’t budge.

gonna make me

the comforter off

but what strength could

pillow at

by, and the pillow barely

I’m not going to the

up the pillow, and placed it back on the

up by the time I’m out, I’ll just carry you

me to wake you up for

back to sleep.”

in frustration. As Seth turned away,

a

she threw the covers aside and stomped off to the

toothpaste onto his brush. He watched

reflection in the mirror.

subtle raise of his eyebrows, he shifted

approached, took her brush, and Seth, as if on

glanced at their reflection. Seth nonchalantly placed

aside.

started brushing.

as toothpaste. The frothy white

slight smile of her

they headed to the Ellis

from last

to know anything.

pages. So what am I supposed to do

smiled

the office, Cicely understood why he hadn’t mentioned coming

He had prepared a new desk and chair in the

immediate deployment.

computer; you can

face away, “Computers

this excuse,

She felt like no matter

Reluctantly, she moved

pile of folders.

don’t understand, and we can go over

will you

a C&P

frowned, “You’re leaving me here

wolves in

reading;

retort but held

glanced at her before

clear sign she was up to no good.

possibly stir up in the

Cicely did take the documents seriously for a

with her pen, but within half an

her phone was

she left the office,

rummaged through the drawers, fiddled with the

doodled on a

she played with her phone and then,

desk and the

before noon. Cicely sat there, the picture

student.

much did you get through?”

since it’s new to me, so I’m

files in a whole morning and you’re

stung.

bristled, “Mr. Diaz, the fact that I’m even

noticing the

open, he found her doodles—a passable

in a

her ‘artwork’ and flushed slightly, but

nonchalance.

lips and took a deep breath,

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

the documents away. Seth waited for an

she declared as if

nose and sank into his chair.

Come over here.”

prepared? No complaints

the files and approached him. Before she

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

an office,” Cicely said, leaning back with

her waist, his voice deep and serious,

one taking

“What do you mean?”

“Back in the day, you’d

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

half-hearted attitude. If that’s

is?”

an eyebrow, “Respectful? That’s because

it’s intentional,

of impunity, but Seth had

like harboring intentions towards

our current relationship, that would mean cheating,

Seth was momentarily speechless.

smiled, “What’s for

me, it’s

away and leaned back in his chair, turning to

expression and voice

Cicely watched him—

was

from a local

no

“Aren’t you eating?”

drowned out by the rhythmic

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

the

a big deal’.

to eat all this by myself?” she asked,

food, while

her way.

it, leave it. Nobody said you had

“Then I guess you’ll be

tonight.”

up at her with

and picked up

“Nobody said we have to sleep together every night. If

wait until you’re

long are

attitude with me?”

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

you want to keep butting heads with

grip on her silverware tightened before relaxing.

continued to

with me, and I’ll sleep

Seth fell silent.

*

at the Ellis Corporation since the afternoon, holding

stayed in his

under

department heads for

reviews, the office atmosphere

heiress of the Ellis family,

she couldn’t afford to be seen as

of the workday approached, Cicely found

leaders’ trembling, overly

much progress with the paperwork, but

hadn’t commented on it.

bit. Mom’s shopping

in a while.”

brow twitched, “I should probably let my

need, I’ve already

an acknowledgment and moved to the door to put

hadn’t arrived yetTo claim Cicely

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

deal with things as they come.

best to steer clear. It wasn’t like it was a

wasn’t

and naturally, Cicely wasn’t about to

cozied up in

around Seth’s.

offered them some

Enter title…

a call and returned after a few minutes,

a sip of

silence, Seth broke the ice. “Spit

fascinating about my face?”d2

told if she didn’t understand

with him always buzzing around, she

even mentioned anything about

strand of her hair, her palm warming against the

“I overheard General

talking about this new

the old models. We could corner the market

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

a point. Instead of bidding and choosing another manufacturer,

over to Diaz International? Given the ties between

family, why haven’t you considered

big fish like the Harper family,

Ellis project. Diaz International doesn’t

Ellis family’s offer

If the Ellis family picks Diaz International, the rest can

and watch. Seth, so many would kill for

or do you just chicken

or the Watsons? Or is it

with the Ellis family?”

of the Ellis Corporation, I can say

are all more fitting partners than Diaz

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

Ellis Corporation to make

his stance. “What’s

is what counts. Why sweat the small stuff? If it’s

pride for you,

a half-smile. “Is

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

the point of running Diaz International? Might as

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

Hmm, that’s actually

more she thought about it, the

narrowed his eyes

chin in her hands and smiled

through with that? Assess the value of Diaz

convert it into shares for you in

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

shares. How about

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

in Diaz International?”

me, if there’s anything

mother, it’s probably Diaz International, left

father. You know, I’ve been thinking that

an edge over

might just be it.”

unfathomable as he watched her.

bit of Diaz International. So what

back on the sofa, with a carefree smile on her face. “Then

to let it

clearly displeased with her

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

International under the Ellis family banner the best

ever do to tick you

tone that belonged

at her mug, then switched on her charm

her, her face

wariness.

just thinking out loud. Then I figured it

Ellis family ain’t too shabby, right? Especially since we

soon. No need to keep things so

the future. You

heads-up, don’t even think

International.”

eyes carrying

If Patty wasn’t bringing it up, neither

already stood up, his expression far

go.”

probably mindful of Seth’s expression.

suppressing a

the

Patty might be the real way to make

was out of the

Ellis residence, Seth

“Where are you off

“Same as today.”

me alone in the office

there, I’ll disturb your

car window, twirling a

her slender finger.

was silent for a few seconds before slowly speaking,

a half-smile, “Should I prepare some new

you?”

head, “No need, I’ve got my

Seth fell silent.

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

parcels for you today; they’ve been temporarily stored in

I can bring

shoes and said, “Well, bring

Cicely

to slice

knife.

items – mugs,

but also studied

times

when she read documents.

showered, he came down to find Cicely

“Go freshen up; we’re

up and handed him a white

a notable heft, and engraved on it

with her name beneath. Beside her was a matching black

items were pairs, hers in dark tones, his

light.

made you think of

I realize there

and it

still engrossed in the small

was the most natural thing in the world. Seth didn’t say much

her to get

morning, seeing the white tumbler in the

contentedly.

Ellis estate and setting the staff to

was still scattered, but

the same as what she’d

department heads yesterday.

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

knock on the door.

was Shane, arms laden with parcels. “Ms. Cicely,

addressed to you.”

bored till now, perked up at the

chair, she resumed her task

to an office transformed. His desk now sported

frame, a new pen holder, several stylographs, a

couple of notebooks.

his, albeit with a simpler color

with a cushion on the

had even

question the wisdom of leaving her alone

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

“What’s for

work did

fingers, then hesitantly added a fourth, “Four

keys on the computer, bringing up a video of

every bit of Cicely’s boredom—and her interest

everything but work.

No surprise there.

unaware of its contents, only saw

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

closed the video.

screen full of text. Seth looked at her,

spent the whole morning reviewing

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

on the

take you out

the office for a meal was music to Cicely’s

*

afternoon, Seth stayed at

for

stretched over several days, and even if

company affairs, she couldn’t help but be

it was time for the

a hectic affair.

Diaz International, and

day, at the same

twenty-six-story towers, linked by sky bridges. The

south, the other north, distinctly

Diaz International’s—a floor

with the Ellis Corporation.

a silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress

She wore a pair of silver high-heeled shoes,

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

birth, Cicely

inferior. Her clothes were simple in design, yet undeniably from

her side was distractingly handsome,

for onlookers to look away. Cicely

Diaz International gala to make the

expected pleasantries, to clink glasses and

whisking her away to the

Corporation gala was orchestrated by

and father present, the spotlight

Seth and Cicely’s arrival at the Ellis Corporation

toasts and well-wishes, almost like a bride and

their guests, receiving blessings

found their seats, Cicely mused aloud,

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

are taking care of it,” Seth

Cicely teased with

lot of celebrity beauties

“And plenty of male

even curious to take a

your intentions weren’t so transparent, I

have considered it.”

to admire the

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

personal viewing.”

skipping the C&P gala. Cicely

profile there,

its grand slam start and

of many. Naturally, the

cozy up to Seth was

man, unwilling to waste time on those

ingratiate themselves with him.

gala was a magnet for journalists,

event was deliberate, with plenty

long after, Charlie

spoke to Seth.”Mr. Diaz, Ray got drunk at the C&P gala and has

commotion over at Diaz

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

wrist, “What’s

put, I’ll be back soon,”

before following Charlie out.

him until he was out of sight, then rose and trailed after

was slouched on the steps

nursing a nearly finished bottle of

a sneer, using the steps

feet and

emphasizing each syllable

with venom.

coldly, flashing a thumbs-up at

I’ve seen just how ruthless you can be.

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

Blame? My family never provoked you; we

we

on the eve of their holiday

the air,

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

a whim because Ray had once made

this had incensed

against Ray .

some speculated that it had been a premeditated strike.

to confirm the

in your family business, my suggestion is

this place

had surrendered their shares when Ray’s family

even after waking from a hospital stay, clung stubbornly to his

ten percent.

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

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

I can’t tarnish it.

destroyed my company, so tell me, wouldn’t

Diaz International, let you taste the

today?”

Ray with icy detachment, “If you

you think you

strip away the last

replaced the drunken stupor in his eyes,

if he might

vengeful fury.

of whiskey onto the table next

sharp shards scattering across the

breaking glass pierced

skip a

heels a

jagged remains of the

let out

Seth’s arm and embracing

circle

to Seth,

onto

to fall

moment.

reverberated

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

blood on

out, and his

seething with

glared at Ray.

Cicely’s arm

anger, she gripped

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

tall.

gaze softened as it landed on

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

drunk and not thinking straight. Have you had too much

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

you?!”

and though her voice carried anger, it

clear tremble.

to stem from the physical reaction to her

eyes made it

fear, anger, or

heart as he surveyed her injuries,

on a clear cut on her right arm.

“Where else

and tears fell from her

feeling of unfamiliar panic and restlessness swirled within Seth. He

voice,

of self-control seemed to crumble under Seth’s

indignation, fear—all converged and broke down

face. “My… my

it in her last desperate

glanced at her high heels and, with a

his arms.

Ray had been tackled to the ground by Charlie, who

on his back, restraining

beside Seth and

Cicely’s panicked cry had caused him

broken bottle had swung past

had been

away, Ray, pinned down by

Seth’s retreating figure with red-rimmed

be so damn arrogant. One day, you’ll pay for everything

done!”

falter in his

*

injuries, Erik and Creighton rushed to the hospital

frenzy.

diagnosis: a sprained ankle and a two-centimeter laceration on her

but not too

treated, her wounds

Cicely’s eyes were red and swollen

greeted them with

“Dad.”

ended a phone call and returned

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

concern

concern, which he

hardship in her life, and just a few

year,

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

listen and

shot her a glare. “Am I not allowed

Enter title…

now, and it’ll still hurt

pain

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

all his words were stuffed back down

a lifetime, could he not see

her hair somewhat disheveled but

when

shield him with her

Totally unexpected.

initial shock and anger now took on a new definition

process these swirling emotions, the

Seth listened intently to the doctor, then

he saw Cicely with red eyes and pursed lips, looking

as could be, then she lifted her arms and wrapped

passed under her knees, lifting her

understanding brought a slight sense of peace to the two

watching.

Seth back

returning to the Ellis residence was the

had never

Seth stayed at the Ellis residence

Cicely company.

using the restroom, washing up –

leaving her side.

impeccable in his

complaint-free actions

from the bathroom to the

waiting.

process, despite the doctor’s

shift in pressure and Cicely would wince.

beside

tense as

any sitting with Creighton that lasted more than

inevitably turned to

bored in her room, insisted

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

most of

them talk about the mechanical manufacturing

family.

had postponed the deal which

year to

International was interested

as it had been initially with her. And

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

on to other matters.

company affairs, she found comfort in

Seth’s voice and being able to look

residence just before the new year.

been injured protecting Seth,

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

than on previous

family prepared a lavish

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

to the Diaz family

Patty’s mood didn’t match the generosity of

since they were legally married,

appropriate

glanced at the young

somewhat absent-mindedly.

Creighton’s reaction, suddenly felt

days when she was not at home, the vastness of the

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

festive gatherings, would leave

*

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

residence.

them to pick

leaving Danielle alone in the hospital over

heartless. After negotiating

bring her

image

other, feels sad just

might liven things up, serving

then again, the thought of Danielle’s haughty,

feel that it might

been bustling since yesterday, and though they

for

feast knowing Miss Danielle

find anyone at the

who should have been picked up

face immediately

chatting happily with Danielle. When

paused for a

smiling.

in her wheelchair, also had a momentary

but she brushed it aside.

she said that made it sound like Cicely was

you doing here?” Seth asked, ignoring her

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

storm.

bit her lip, hands clasped tightly,

leave her all alone in the

holidays, could we?”

her chest, but she fought to keep it in

not to let her emotions flare

for her discharge.

family. You stay

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

ashamed?”

more

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

face was barely able to contain her

be here. Danielle got herself

debt we can never repay. What’s wrong with

her every

lips curled into a sneer. “By that

and play

family’s dinners even more

anger, and she whirled to glare at

“This is the Ellis family’s dear

for a mother figure that you have

her?”

her brows. “Patty, don’t take

who’s making him

“You…”

deep voice

light and smiling, settled on a

she quietly awaited

you here to celebrate, not to

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