The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

Chapter 2031-2040

So, what do you want to do then?”

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

speak, but no words came out.

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

hospital room spotless again.

Charlie returned with a fresh lunch from a nearby deli.

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

“Eat up.”d2

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

Enter title…

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

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

use the restroom on your own.”

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

the fork.

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

“Have you eaten?”

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

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

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

Danielle didn’t dare to press him further.

*

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

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

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

Issac stared at her silently.

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

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

make sure she gets it.”

Issac was moved. “I’ll send someone.”

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

message popped up from Emiliana.

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

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

Cicely: [I’ll add him.]

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

I

ssac was still there when she looked up.

“Why haven’t you left?”

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

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

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

driver’s ID before letting Cicely leave.

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

accepted her friend request.

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

Cicely: [Have you had lunch yet?]

Santino: [Not yet.]

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

Santino did too.

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

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

mask and sunglasses hiding his well-known face.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

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

hope you’re not pressed for time.”

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

Cicely smiled as the dishes began to arrive.

“Thanks for bringing my car back.”

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

difficult.”

Cicely raised an eyebrow. “Fine by me.”

“Are you out on your own again today?”

The question felt ironic to Cicely.

“Is that strange?”

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

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

your age seems a bit lonely too soon.”

Lonely.

Cicely paused. The word felt foreign to her.

She had never considered it a description for herself.

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

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

annoying.”

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

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

“Considerate and understanding?”

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

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

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

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

you through more efficient work.

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

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

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

more you’ve won.”

Cicely’s gaze turned distant.

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

The more it hurts, the more she wins.

Savoring Santino’s words, Cicely smiled.

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

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

Cicely remained noncommittal.

After all, actors portray life in all its facets.

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

for a while.”

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

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

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

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

gratitude.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

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

Santino seemed quite pleased with the idea.

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

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

wedding photos.

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

There were two photos.

One was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

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

suggest such a clichéd stance.

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

might take in the future.

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

of its authenticity.

“Great, wrap it up for me.”

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

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

Actually, he was completely taken aback.

“Just two wedding photos?”

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

fitting.”

Santino nodded in understanding.

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

sunglasses, he was recognized.

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

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

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

Congratulations, you look stunning.”

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

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

you?”

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

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

he proposed with is the same brand you endorse.”

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

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

photo with her.

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

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

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

all the best.”

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

They both chuckled at the apparent misunderstanding.

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

Santino took them casually.

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

picture on social media?”

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

“Thank you.”

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

“Any plans now?” he asked.

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

ago.

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

and rejecting her lunch.

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

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

needs, including trips to the bathroom.

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

very noon.

Santino was right.

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

If not for her, then for someone else.

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

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

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

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

there.”

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

Issac dismissed the caregiver Seth had arranged for Danielle and replaced

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

even the unexpected ones, had been meticulously arranged.

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

the call and dialed Cicely’s number.

— Powered off.

His brow furrowed, and he then called the apartment.

Enter title…

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

yet.”d2

“Alright,” Seth replied coolly.

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

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

been dining out quite often lately.”

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

“Sure thing.”

*

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

past two years.

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

didn’t skimp on expenses.

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

lighting and the sound quality were top-notch.

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

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

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

interest.

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

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

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

Boring.

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

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

recognized her.

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

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

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

with the staff.

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

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

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

excruciating detail?”

“Not quite.”

Cicely sighed. “Sounds dull.”

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

“It better be the best meal ever.”

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

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

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

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

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

personified.

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

caught their attention.

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

responsible for Santino’s interview was curious about her.

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

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

opportunity that they were just friends.

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

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

up a frenzy.

Their plans did not include a love affair for Santino.

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

Cicely was after the interview.

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

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

was already dark outside.

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

seeing him, they erupted into excited screams.

Santino waved back with a smile.

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

anxious.

“Santino, who is she?”

“Is she your new assistant?”

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

chaos, explaining that they were just friends.

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

moment.

Some fans even started crying on the spot.

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

detached amusement.

“What a spectacle,” she remarked.

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

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

find them ridiculous?”

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

suffocating.”

Cicely narrowed her eyes, “How so?”

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

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

happy.”

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

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

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

later.”

Cicely understood; such people did exist.

“That does sound suffocating.”

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

interested in the topic at all.

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

they’ll be returned to you shortly.”

Cicely did as instructed.

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

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

Cicely was genuinely intrigued.

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

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

dish she had seen in a movie.

*

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

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

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

she glanced towards the door.

“Sir, you’re back.”

“Yes. Where is she?”

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

She had thought the couple would come home together.

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

phone and continued to call Cicely.

Voicemail.

It had been voicemail all afternoon.

He turned and dialed Charlie’s number instead.

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

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

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

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

Hollywood-themed diner.”

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

speechless.

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

online. You’ll see.”

Online.

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

overwhelming.

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

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

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

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

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

who knew her could recognize her without a doubt.

Seth’s eyes were cold and terrifying.

Carly shivered from where she stood.

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

turning to walk into the living room.

“Carly, you can head home.”

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

instructions.

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

“I’ll take care of it.”

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

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

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

still simmering on the stove.

*

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

frequently on his watch.

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

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

uncomfortable it will be for you.”

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

Santino fell silent.

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

He was trending.

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

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

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

Santino didn’t make much of it.

After dinner, Santino handed her a scarf.

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

recognized.”

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

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

When they stepped out, Santino shielded Cicely behind him.

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

Who was she?

Was Santino in love?

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

The assistant tried to explain, to no avail.

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

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

displeasure was clear.

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

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

to know who.”

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

persistent journalists.

Santino pulled Cicely away.

*

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

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

pulling up to the apartment building.

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

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

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

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

man opposite her.

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

building.

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

around his neck.

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

tightened as he turned away from the window.

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

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

with his back to her.

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

coat, then bending down to change her shoes.

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

with a detached gaze.

Cicely glanced at him and gathered her statically charged hair.

“Did you come back early today?”

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

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

toward the bedroom while tying it up.

“You can wash your hands outside too.”

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

lingered on him for even a second.

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

within him, his voice tense and cold.

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

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

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

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

toward the bedroom.

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

bedroom entrance.

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

“What are you doing?”

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

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

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

“Drinking again?”

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

I’m tired and want to rest early.”

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

face in her neck.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seth had never been treated like this before.

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

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

her onto the bed.

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

to the mattress.

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

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

breath a chilling mix of anger and frost.

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

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

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

you’re expecting from me?

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

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

Her lips twisted into a defiant smirk.

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

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

into some heartless jerk?”

Enter title…

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

She had actually considered all of this.

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

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

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

Danielle go?”

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

and dripping with sarcasm.

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

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

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

Seth remained silent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

my face and laugh at my failure.

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

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

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

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

mockery.

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

Whether Cicely liked him was always clear.

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

o why did he lose control tonight?

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

her face.

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

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

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

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

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

such things so easily.

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

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

they’re worthless.”

Her expression briefly turned chillingly cold and dismissive before she pushed

him away and left for the bathroom without a word.

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

*

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

hair, clearly post-shower as well.

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

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

changed by Seth.

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

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

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

with a calm expression.

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

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

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

window.

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

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

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

“Right.”

“Good. I trust you.”

What other choice did she have?

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

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

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

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

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

Seth paused, then pulled her into his arms.

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

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

her through and through.

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

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

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

arms still tight around her.

Would she leave him?

How could she?

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

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

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

way to mend or fill it.

*

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

point to check in at the apartment in person.

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

and had woken up early.

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

the door for Charlie.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Charlie caught the keys deftly and immediately went downstairs.

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

room.

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

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

was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

hang them up.”

“Sure thing.”

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

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

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

remembering when.

Her tone suggested she was in a good mood.

“A bit to the right.”

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

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

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

bullets.

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

steady.

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

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

ought to have built some rapport.”

Charlie nearly leapt out the nearby window.

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

“Time to eat.”

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

left. There, that’s perfect.”

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

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

“Time for breakfast.”

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

After breakfast, Seth and Cicely left the apartment together.

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

to the office.

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

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

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

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

the affair that the matter finally settled.

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

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

had deliberately quashed the story.

Cicely didn’t dwell on it.

Once it was over, it was over.

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

caused.

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

it was best to let it go.

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

her.

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

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

evenings.

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

his work.

His efficiency visibly increased.

Yet, it was clear he was getting tired.

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

find reasons to be understanding and to feel for them.

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

accommodate them.

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

want to see him exhausted.

Thankfully, it was only for a week.

*

Cicely spent a day resting at home during the holiday.

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

trouble at the hospital again.]

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

leading to another emotional breakdown.

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

was all an act to garner attention.

It had worked for her before.

Danielle’s room was in disarray.

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

deliberate mess.

Cicely visited around noon, bringing lunch from home.

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

shifting to a feigned calm as she faced Cicely coldly.

“Here to gloat over me again?”

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

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

around?”

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

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

someday.”

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

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

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

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

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

your grand design.”

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

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

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

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

remember, Danielle, you still owe me.”

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

and arranged the lunch before Danielle.

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

smirk forming on her lips as she turned to Cicely.

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

me with kindness?”

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

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

use that term to describe me?”

Danielle’s face turned sour with malice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

anger and agitation.

know. Getting angry is bad

Seth and I will be

Enter title…

glared at her coldly and then let out a

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

off.”d2

she looked at Danielle,

faint smile. “How shameless

even if you wish for

allow it, and neither will Seth. Even blood relatives fed

think you are in

decades to live? How patient do

day in and day out? Or

someone disabled?”

pale lips trembled violently as she glared at

to her most

second that you’re off the hook just because

away. You were so proud, weren’t you?

you die, I will dig you up from your grave and lash your corpse to satisfy

soon,

blame me

neatly

detached voice rang

you, I wouldn’t starve myself just to

to eat, that’s if you don’t find

annoying.”

lift, it froze in place. To eat or not to

Cicely would win.

appetite. Please,

standing by. “Keep an eye on

eats

“Understood.”

took a

look at her again, turning towards the door

the

as the man who entered caught

sight of Cicely brought

returned from the restroom,

front of Cicely.

Issac, furrowed her brows as

when he opened the door. She reached

Ray, feeling

teeth clenched as

mixed with rage.

don’t you think

of me that night when you

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

castrated you myself.”

words hit Ray

“Seth never

night?”

“Does what he say negate the fact that

raped me?”

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

Let’s put our grievances aside for now.

Ray, get your facts straight. It

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

incapacitated and dependent. Let’s not make her situation

listening to the exchange, could

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

course, I know

so?” Cicely nodded with a smile, “Then

I’ll take

shielded Cicely as they left the hospital

him accountable. He’s been hospitalized here.

by yesterday, but I didn’t let him

clenched the bag in her hands until her knuckles turned

back the chaos of that night, the

fear, so vivid and terrifying that even the

shudder.

“Miss?”

the memories, “It seems Mr. Ray is

skeptical. A rich playboy,

suddenly proclaiming true feelings for one seemed

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

With his family on the brink, he’s

Danielle. It’s clear she

by his family for her

at

much he’d nearly get her killed? That seemed a

*

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

I had no idea it

to give Ray any more attention than she

fork clumsily, she shoveled food into

indifference.

world. Regardless of the tactics used, your family

her plate. “Is it really necessary to go

to him now, and your family is on its last

at least a chance for a

blown it for good.”

so tight his knuckles were

his forehead. “He orchestrated the downfall of my

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

My dad

agency, he had his sights set on

a

relied on these things to make

delivered a fatal blow. He played innocent but was

and ruthless. That night, I wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve

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

receiving

drained of color. She had pondered

into it. She didn’t want to confront

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

deep breath. “I know you

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

albeit a rough road ahead. I

to ask you

look up, her voice restrained and flat. “Go

front of that car for him,

to save him, or was it just a ploy to

finally turned to look at

motive, my only desire was to win

a melancholic smile. “It’s different. The accident was

I didn’t expect my father to be so

you still have

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

are you

lips together.

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

didn’t expect

I had died,

not, that’s the answer I needed

don’t have to play the villain in front of me to

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

I can’t, I

this composed yet so

the blanket trembled slightly. She was afraid of Ray

to lose, there was no telling what kind of madness he

to.

*

of the elevator on the ground

across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

furrowed imperceptibly when he

grip on her purse slackened for

familiar, faint smile on her

heavy. “You hate hospitals. What are you doing

another episode. Came to check on her

After a brief silence, she glanced

a cripple, so

Cicely arrived at the hospital.

Seth

on your behalf to check on Miss Danielle, considering

been lately. She thought it might

faltered for a

around her neck, presenting only her profile to him,

smile at the corners of her eyes and

moods are volatile, and your presence might exacerbate

even leading to harm.”

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

hurt me when I’m fully able and

“The sooner she recovers, the sooner

ties with her.”

know,” Cicely replied, hands tucked into the pockets

I braved

No overt anger, just a serene

the more she displayed it, the clearer Seth

sarcasm and rebellion.

had lunch?” Seth reached out

he’d learned just a week

avoiding his touch.

have the time to join me. And

meal with you

such blunt rejection, Seth’s

question floated into Seth’s ears, simple

After a brief pause, he looked up to find

She didn’t leave room for an answer,

in her

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

settled into the car and pondered

visit Dad at the

“Alright.”

the car rolled through the gates of the Ellis family estate,

at the sprawling manor, feeling an unexpected sense

dark green pines stood tall but failed to bring any sense

vitality.

brows, and the already

a bit. She got out of the car

empty, with servants occasionally moving

seemed to be cautious. “Miss, you’re

sound of her arrival, a look

didn’t you give us a heads up,

upstairs, “Where’s

finished lunch not too long ago and

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he have

some

the stairs, turning to look

step, “And what else?”

“There were a couple

turned and headed

the servants to

the brownish buckwheat wraps remained, along with

light salad of carrots and celery, the other

of ham and cheese.

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

prepared for my

frightened to reply, their heads lowered in

has been preferring

asked for these dishes. Even

them. Elderly folks’ meals are

sir says there’s no need

well enough not to doubt his words, but in her memories,

was always a feast of

the study, she found Creighton slumped in a chair by

chest, his head tilted, seemingly

of sorrow hit Cicely, and

estate now had but one master. That

corner

head over heels in love,

alone

herself deeply in her

gently covering him with a

out of the study.

Creighton woke from his nap

something with the servants, his face lit up with

why didn’t you

to hide before

not

could there be so many quarrels?”

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

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

for dinner

nodded, “You’ll have to ask him. He

to me.”

I’ll talk

for the rest of

chess, playfully demanding take-backs

amused and exasperated.

squared off while she placed bets

chiming in

is golden;

afternoon was lively and bustling, and

to have returned to how it

be.

Creighton inquired about

he was too busy to make it back. Creighton frowned,

you two

hope for us to be

Creighton relented.

Cicely still sent Seth a message. [I’m

coming home tonight.]

to create a dramatic runaway scenario with Seth,

home. After all, she couldn’t let Grandpa and Dad

anything amiss.

reply, and she didn’t

the Ellis estate’s doorstep. Cicely

frown and moved to assist Seth

your message imply for me to

coat on the rack, her voice neutral, “No, it was just

know.”

no reason for a married couple to sleep

as an invitation for us to stay here

could respond, he had pulled her into his embrace and

the living room. “Good

seeing the couple’s closeness,

hard these past few days, have you eaten

“Not yet.”

whip

dishes were all tailored to his

on joining him for dinner, but as she

inexplicable stares of her father

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

in, “You two aren’t fighting,

took a deep breath, “Just came out

over to the coffee table, bending down to pick up

headed back to

Enter title…

to have anticipated her return to dine

him did he glance up at her. “If

the Ellis family estate isn’t as cozy as

her expression

for the near

Seth’s brow

set down

I not explain myself clearly

understand very well. Now that you’ve explained

said I’m not fighting with you.

wasting time over the

napkin,

back here just

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

short on time. In fact, on

on staying, but then I saw my dad and changed

but he could use

prove I’m not

face was impassive, her lips curled in an almost

part, coupled with her subtle expression,

placed on the question she had left lingering

noon.

If not, she

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

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

own home,

sip from his

was surprised by his easy acquiescence,

he disagreed today, it wouldn’t

Cicely came to understand why he mentioned inconvenience

such an easy compromise.

father and grandfather in the study.

to her what their conversation would be

matters.

for little home decor items

LEGO sets, and notebooks

she liked doodling when

opened it to find

inside. “Ms. Cicely, good

sending you out in such cold weather,

the night no

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

can sit

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

on

looked up, turned around,

this, quickly directed the

suitcase upstairs.

didn’t linger, bidding

up a glass of milk. After finishing

upstairs.

have to talk about for so long without any sign

out? The servant had refilled

clothes and went to the bathroom where the

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

the water temperature, she slid into the

the bathroom window was a view

by rotating ground lights. It seemed they

especially for her return.

of boredom, she had asked her father to install the fountain

at them had become a habit

of the bathtub, staring

edge of the tub, twisted a hot towel,

over her eyes.

dripped into the water,

She drifted

felt a sudden chill.

the coolness, and

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

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

side of the tub.

to be the first to drown in

she was startled, but it was by the man who

of the room had dissipated when he entered,

feel cold.

blame.” Cicely tried to shake

her and began to undress in a brazen

“What are

continued without missing a beat, dropping his clothes into the

else does one do

beside the tub to cover herself,

leave, she was scooped up into his

glared up at him. “Seth! What are

to do?”

at the woman in his

radiant than usual. He smirked, planting a

a voice that was low and enticing. “Share a shower

embarrassingly, “You should be able

without drowning.”

Compared to her quiet, gentle demeanor, always

he preferred her current bold, even

demeanor.

retort, he began to run his

your hair

“No.”

of the shower interrupted

her consent before

but Seth’s hand covered her eyes. “Close

wasn’t that Cicely lacked principles, but that this man had a hundred ways

her anger before it

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

away by

in front of her, trying

modesty she could.

hair with patience, massaging her

to rinse it

closed, Cicely

After all, there were more than

fallen for

hair, he nudged her

he took a quick

with a cool expression, Cicely asked, “Charlie brought

planning to stay

there any reason I

it’s quite a trek

staying here. I can’t exactly haul

will.”

of anger

as he drew closer to her.

to spending

better.”

sleep by

Seth’s gaze drifted leisurely over her

contours of her body.

and he reached out to pull her

from the shower cascading

water from flowing into them, Cicely’s mind

his succinct and cryptic response, which left her

she suddenly felt something insistent pressing against her

already set the showerhead aside, his

his forehead against hers. “We should get

go. I can dry

going out

react, Seth’s lips closed

apart, and he moved with a familiarity that made it

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

“This is

wasn’t convenient, but you seemed not to

it down

wrapped around his

she

the hairdryer and slipping her into pajamas, Seth placed

from him, her soft

to the other side of the

to turn away, his long

knowing he’d only persist if

too exhausted

*

The next day.

Seth was already gone. The patchy marks on her

with new ones added from last

gentle, and protective—or so he

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

all too pleased.

up and slipping into her loose

she found Creighton and her

morning exercise and were already two

Creighton shook his head with a mix of affection

“You really should fix

by the servant, sipped half of it,

couch. “Sleeping in is the best part of

for your health, and too much sleep

the most important

you leave with

left Cicely

Why would I

timing with your holiday. You

company instead of ending up clueless. What? Didn’t

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

he

“You’re quite good at passing the

he really

that she genuinely didn’t know, Creighton dropped the

hospital with your grandfather to see Danielle. You want

come?”

onto the couch, resting her

of elegance

lunch by yourself at

had just returned, and they were already leaving her

Danielle’s name had come up several times at

hospital while the rest of them

inappropriate and heartless. After

visit

silently. Anyone who dared say

to Danielle would have a problem

for dinner.

headed upstairs first, while Cicely sat with Creighton and

going up to her bedroom, where Seth was busy at

desk.

went to the bathroom, and upon entering,

quick shower, she emerged to find Seth still

bed to play with her

Seth had finished his work. He stood up, saw

brushed her forehead with his hand, and

the lips. “I’m going to shower.

for

you be? It’s been days on end.

you up to?”

quirked with a hint of teasing, “What makes you

rest tonight?”

what

are plenty of things we

gently, “Then

pushed away by her,

with

found herself gasping for air. She lifted her

a soft whimper. It

on her, just barely.

trying to kiss me to

words caught Seth off guard with their unintentional

“Kiss you to death? I wouldn’t dream

he said with a playful tone,

Cicely’s drowsy eyes suddenly

just inches from hers. A

penalty for self-justification, then what

me? Shouldn’t I consider how to punish

the same amused expression, yet a chill seemed

smile. “Go ahead. Punish me any

head, calmly and seriously meeting his

I’m so into you,

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

curved jawline, “So,

the heart to give me a severe punishment,

ran her hand across his face,

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

eyes, Seth felt a subtle stir in his heart,

her smooth chin, “You

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

“But have you ever heard, love and hate

start, the more they might hate

coldness crept into Seth’s warm and smiling eyes,

eyes and brows soft with flirtation, “Don’t

which I doubt it will. I wouldn’t

like a bee sting to the nerve, his dark eyes

He let go of

buttons that Cicely had undone; he

unfastened the rest.

let you off tonight. It’s still early, so

paused, “If you’re not obedient,

you up my way.”

what his method of

emerged from the shower, Cicely was

at him, then refocused on the

game.

climbed into bed and snatched the phone from her hands. Cicely

“Is there something you need to

join me at the office

talking, he swiped and tapped on her

anything about business, what am I

do there?”

need to tag

thing in the

I have to

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

you for no

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

future, your only

Ellis family

and start eating

know where to cry.

you

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

is mine, isn’t it

when truly in your own hands, is

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

you want to leave me one day without

froze. Turning to her, his gazes were unfathomably

like you’re

who leaves a

these two reasons, is there

improve,

eyes shifted, the shadow in their depths replaced by a

quick to assume. In fact,

reflecting on why I harbor such uncomfortable

handed her phone back, “I’ve downloaded some

sleep, and

understand tomorrow.”

the phone, the document app

blur of text. “What

out of bed, lifting the covers. “I’m

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

mood.”

up, grab a coat, and walk out.

too well; it wasn’t about reflection.

a tantrum.

＊

two hours. Approaching eleven at

face looking worse than

lights had dimmed, leaving only a

woman sleeping with the phone in

reignited.

Heartless woman.

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

she hadn’t closed.

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

face and

a rush

the phone and tossing it aside, he watched the woman

he pulled her into

used to the man’s arms and

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

her up, maybe keep her

one sentence, she fell silent again,

petty.

＊

morning, he woke Cicely with a

strong coffee. Even for school, Cicely rarely

prone to morning grumpiness, she was even

robbed of breath.

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

mind?!”

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

shine, off to

way! I am not going.” Cicely yanked the comforter over her head

face.” Seth’s voice

Cicely didn’t budge.

you really gonna make me do this the hard

comforter off with a

strength could

pillow

by, and the pillow

this, I’m

down, picked up the pillow, and placed it back on the bed,

ready. If I don’t see you up by the time I’m out, I’ll just carry

want me to wake

back to sleep.”

frustration. As Seth

a sly

aside and stomped

busy squeezing toothpaste onto

reflection in the mirror.

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

her brush, and Seth, as if on

She glanced at their reflection. Seth nonchalantly placed

aside.

started brushing. It was not

simple as toothpaste. The frothy white

the slight smile

to the Ellis Corporation

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

to know anything.

what am I supposed to do at the

just smiled

office, Cicely understood why he hadn’t mentioned

new desk and chair in the corner, waiting

immediate deployment.

on the computer; you can keep reading

her face away,

excuse, “There are

fell silent. She felt like no matter what excuse she came up

an answer for it. Reluctantly, she moved to the

pile of folders.

understand, and

will you be

to a C&P

“You’re leaving

wolves in the office

focus on the reading; I’ll be back

to retort

at her before leaving the

darting around, a clear sign she was up

stir up

did

of marks with her pen, but within half

her

left the office, returning after another half-hour to

through the drawers, fiddled

a pen and doodled on a black leather notebook she found

and then, noticing

and the

noon. Cicely sat there, the picture of

student.

much did you get

new to me, so

morning and you’re proud of that?” His

stung.

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

approached his desk, noticing the black notebook she had taken

it open, he found her doodles—a

in a confident, flamboyant

her ‘artwork’ and flushed slightly, but

nonchalance.

pursed his lips and took a deep breath, “Anything you didn’t

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

away. Seth waited for

declared as if it justified

sank into his chair. “Lunch is on

Come over here.”

prepared? No complaints

grudgingly clutched the files and

pulled her into an

said, leaning

her waist, his voice deep and serious,

one taking liberties here,

“What do you mean?”

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

to tutor you. Sweet and respectful. Now, you

half-hearted attitude. If that’s not taking liberties,

is?”

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

and it’s intentional,

impunity, but

harboring

relationship, that

Seth was momentarily speechless.

victorious, smiled, “What’s

me, it’s to your

and leaned back in his

expression and voice

Cicely watched him—

was

by Charlie from a local diner, indeed

no intention of

“Aren’t you eating?”

out by the

flat “Not hungry.” His mood was as frosty

suffused with the unmistakable vibe

a big deal’.

by myself?” she asked, her brow furrowed as

table laden with food, while he

her way.

it, leave it. Nobody said you had to finish

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

tonight.”

up at her

the couch and picked

said we have to sleep

wait until you’re

long are you planning to keep

attitude with me?”

the innocent, “Isn’t it

want to keep butting

grip on her silverware tightened before

to

me, and I’ll sleep

Seth fell silent.

*

the Ellis Corporation since the afternoon, holding

and had stayed

to slack off, but under Seth’s watchful eye, that wasn’t

department heads for updates on

and progress reviews,

of the Ellis family, even if it was just

couldn’t afford to be seen

end of the workday approached, Cicely found most of her attention

trembling, overly respectful demeanors and

word. She hadn’t made much progress with

hadn’t commented on it.

downstairs for a bit. Mom’s shopping nearby, and we’ll drive her

in a while.”

brow twitched, “I should probably let my dad

I’ve already told

an acknowledgment and moved to the door to

Cicely wasn’t the least bit

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

come. If Patty was in a good mood,

bit more. If not, best to steer

wasn’t her biggest

naturally, Cicely

the door. She cozied up in the lounge area,

around Seth’s.

offered them some

Enter title…

to take a call and returned after a

took a sip of

the ice. “Spit

fascinating about my face?”d2

grimaced. She’d always been told if she

with him always buzzing around,

he hadn’t even mentioned

of her hair, her palm

“I overheard General Manager

was talking about this new mechanical

old models. We

family has the know-how and the development rights.

a point. Instead of bidding

over to Diaz International? Given the ties between

and the Ellis family, why haven’t you

expression was cold. “The big fish like the Harper

Ellis project. Diaz International

Ellis

what? If the Ellis family picks Diaz International, the rest

so many would kill for that kind

just chicken out when you see

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

with the Ellis family?”

the Ellis Corporation, I can say

fitting partners

to work with the Ellis family,

Ellis Corporation to make things

by his stance. “What’s wrong with

is what counts. Why

for you, I’ll bang

twitched into a half-smile. “Is there a

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

the point of running Diaz International?

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

up. Hmm, that’s actually a pretty

thought about it, the more

his eyes

her chin in her hands

go through with that? Assess the value of

it into shares for you in the Ellis

cut you

How about

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

in Diaz International?”

to me, if there’s anything on this

besides your mother, it’s probably Diaz International,

been thinking

me an edge over you. But Diaz International?

might just be it.”

meaningful and unfathomable

International.

with a carefree smile on

time to

thin lips tightened, clearly

thinly. “Then isn’t

Ellis family banner

Diaz International ever do to tick you

that belonged to none other

then switched

opposite her, her face a stormy

wariness.

figured it wasn’t such a bad

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

soon. No need to keep things so

the future. You

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

International.”

eyebrow, her eyes carrying a mild, nonchalant

Patty wasn’t bringing it up, neither

had already stood up, his expression

go.”

mindful of Seth’s expression.

forcefully suppressing a multitude of

evening, they had dinner at the Diaz residence,

dining with Patty might be the real way to

was out of

the drive back to the Ellis residence, Seth took the

are you off to

“Same as today.”

alone in the

I’m there, I’ll disturb

the car

her slender finger.

few seconds

a half-smile, “Should I prepare

you?”

head, “No need, I’ve got

Seth fell silent.

them respectfully. “Miss, we received

they’ve been temporarily stored in

them now, I can bring them

her shoes and said, “Well, bring them out,

many packages. Cicely sat

waterproof mat and started to slice open the parcels with a

knife.

them were small items – mugs,

only unpacked them but also studied them. Her demeanor

manuals was many times more focused

when she read documents.

showered, he came down to find Cicely

“Go freshen up;

and handed him a white travel tumbler. “This

a notable heft, and engraved on it was a

beneath. Beside her was a matching black

The rest of the items were pairs,

light.

you think of

this time did I realize there

it

while still engrossed in the small items, her tone

was the most natural thing in the

her to get

next morning, seeing the white tumbler in the

contentedly.

the Ellis estate and setting the

still scattered, but after reviewing a

were much the same as

department heads yesterday.

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

knock on the door.

parcels. “Ms. Cicely, these parcels,

addressed to you.”

now, perked up at the sight, “Put them

resumed her task with the craft

to an office transformed. His desk

a new pen holder, several stylographs,

couple of notebooks.

the corner mirrored his, albeit with a

cushion

fresh bouquet of flowers had even appeared on

question the wisdom of leaving

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

for lunch

much work did you get

then hesitantly added a fourth, “Four

keys on the computer, bringing up a video

every bit of Cicely’s

everything but work.

No surprise there.

and Cicely, unaware of its

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

closed the video.

closer, seeing a screen full of

spent the whole

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

objects on the desk, and he

a reward, I’ll take

escaping the office for a meal was

*

at the

staff for reports and

several days, and even if Cicely wasn’t

about company affairs, she couldn’t help

time

a hectic affair.

Corporation, Diaz International, and C&P were arranged to hold

the same day, at the

two twenty-six-story towers, linked by sky bridges. The topfloor ballrooms were split

the south, the other north, distinctly

event was just below Diaz International’s—a

with the Ellis Corporation.

dressed in a silver-gray, fitted cocktail

knee. She wore a pair of silver

elaborately dressed as others, she still stood out

the moment of her birth, Cicely seemed

Her clothes were simple in

man by her side was distractingly handsome, a

to look away. Cicely

International

stage and deliver the expected pleasantries, to

away to

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

the spotlight

the Ellis

and well-wishes, almost like a bride

their guests, receiving

Cicely mused aloud, “Isn’t the

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

others are taking care of

her hand, Cicely teased with a mischievous smile,

lot of celebrity beauties

at her coolly, “And plenty of

to

snort, Seth retorted, “If your intentions

have considered it.”

want to admire

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

personal viewing.”

seemed serious about skipping the C&P gala.

low profile there, and

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

of many. Naturally, the number of

cozy up to Seth was

a patient man, unwilling to waste time on

ingratiate themselves with him.

magnet for journalists, both

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

However, not long after,

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

a commotion over at Diaz

brow furrowed, and his demeanor darkened. As

wrist,

soon,” he

before following Charlie out.

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

Ray was slouched

a nearly finished bottle of

Seth with a sneer, using

to his feet

he slurred, emphasizing each syllable with a

word with venom. “You’re impressive,

laughed coldly, flashing a

I’ve seen just how

who writes history, that I can’t blame

you; we were just in your

you coveted what the we had, you seized

hadn’t anticipated such drama on

in the air, the implications clear to

tactics, about how

because Ray had once made an indecent pass

had incensed him enough to

against Ray .

some speculated that it had been a premeditated strike. Now,

seemed to

you are still a shareholder in your family business, my

place immediately.” Seth said

shares when Ray’s family had dispersed, except

who, even after waking from a

ten percent.

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

event. I can’t

and I can’t tarnish it.

you. You destroyed my company, so tell me, wouldn’t it be fitting

Diaz International, let you taste

today?”

at Ray with icy detachment, “If you

makes you think you

remark seemed to strip away the last shred of Ray’s

the drunken stupor in his

he looked as if he might

vengeful fury.

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

sending sharp shards scattering across the

of the breaking glass pierced through the festive

causing Cicely’s heart to skip

Seth, her high heels

remains of the

she let out a breathless shout. Disregarding

dashed forward, pulling Seth’s arm and

circle to avoid

clung to Seth,

drop of bright red blood fell onto Seth’s hand, and

arms seemed about to fall out of his embrace.

moment.

collective gasp reverberated throughout the

Cicely to intervene, felt a surge of

blood on

and his

sword blade, seething with a murderous

glared at Ray.

shot through Cicely’s

anger, she gripped his clothes

she managed to say, forcing herself to

tall.

it landed on

him. Stunned,

Have you had too

do you think provoking him will do you now?

you?!”

though her voice carried anger, it also

clear tremble.

from the physical reaction to her pain.

it clear

fear, anger, or

gripped his heart as he surveyed her

on

else

lip, and tears

panic and restlessness

low voice, “Talk

to crumble

indignation, fear—all converged and broke down silently,

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

had twisted it in her last desperate lunge

and, with a grimace, bent down to scoop her

his arms.

been tackled to the ground by Charlie, who had pinned

knee on his

right beside Seth and was quick to react when

caused him

bottle had swung

acted swiftly, Cicely had been cut on the

away, Ray, pinned down by Charlie and

at Seth’s

don’t be so damn arrogant. One

done!”

falter in

*

injuries, Erik and Creighton rushed to the

frenzy.

diagnosis: a sprained ankle and a two-centimeter

too shallow, but not too

then, she had already been treated, her wounds bandaged,

Cicely’s eyes were red

greeted

“Dad.”

call and

a brief nod

their concern for

mask his concern, which

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

new year, this happens! Seth,

“it’s not his

and

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

Enter title…

hurt if you

pain stop, then

cutting himself off mid-sentence.

all his words were stuffed back down his

could he not see

her hair somewhat disheveled but

gala when she had unexpectedly run up

him

Totally unexpected.

now took

process these swirling

listened intently to the doctor, then stepped

with red eyes and pursed lips, looking as pitiful

she lifted her arms and wrapped them around his

passed under her knees,

understanding brought a slight sense of

watching.

Cicely and Seth back

to the

all, she had never

the gala, Seth stayed at

Cicely company.

washing up –

to carry her, never leaving her side. Apart from

was impeccable in his

complaint-free actions were

from the bathroom to

waiting.

the bandaging process, despite the

pressure and

a heavy silence from the man beside her, who seemed to make the

as tense

sitting with Creighton that lasted more than

inevitably turned to

her room, insisted Seth take

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

most of their

them talk about the mechanical manufacturing issues

family.

the deal which should have

year to after

if Diaz International was interested

same as it had been initially with her. And

didn’t

on to other matters.

wasn’t interested in company affairs, she found comfort in

and being able to look up and

the Ellis residence just before the new

daughter-in-law who had been

airs at this time. But

than on

lavish

she brought up the topic of the New Year’s Eve

back to the

surprised, as Patty’s mood

they were legally married, spending New

most appropriate and normal thing to

for a moment, glanced at the young

somewhat absent-mindedly.

suddenly felt

days when she was not at home, the vastness

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

would leave

*

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

residence.

them to pick up Danielle

that leaving Danielle alone

negotiating with the

bring her

didn’t comment. However, the image of two old people spending

staring at each other, feels sad just thinking about it. .

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

thought of Danielle’s

feel that it might be

staff had been bustling since yesterday, and

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

a sumptuous feast knowing Miss

find anyone at the hospital. And Cicely, arriving

residence, encountered Danielle, who should have been

face

Danielle. When she

paused for a

smiling.

in her wheelchair, also had a

her face, but she brushed it

said that

are you doing here?” Seth

was as flat as the calm

storm.

clasped

her all alone in the

holidays, could we?”

surge of anger rising in her

not to let her

for her discharge. If anyone

should’ve been the Ellis family. You stay here

is being polite, but don’t you

ashamed?”

embarrassed, turned even more mortified after

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

contain her fury. “The guest

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

repay. What’s wrong with inviting her

taking care of her every single

“By that

just stage an accident and play the

family’s dinners even more

anger, and she whirled to glare at Seth,

is the Ellis family’s dear

figure that you have

her?”

brows. “Patty, don’t take your

who’s making him feel

“You…”

voice

smiling, settled on a glass on the

she quietly awaited Seth’s next

to celebrate, not to start

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