The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

Chapter 2031-2040

So, what do you want to do then?”

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

speak, but no words came out.

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

hospital room spotless again.

Charlie returned with a fresh lunch from a nearby deli.

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

“Eat up.”d2

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

Enter title…

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

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

use the restroom on your own.”

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

the fork.

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

“Have you eaten?”

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

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

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

Danielle didn’t dare to press him further.

*

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

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

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

Issac stared at her silently.

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

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

make sure she gets it.”

Issac was moved. “I’ll send someone.”

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

message popped up from Emiliana.

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

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

Cicely: [I’ll add him.]

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

I

ssac was still there when she looked up.

“Why haven’t you left?”

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

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

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

driver’s ID before letting Cicely leave.

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

accepted her friend request.

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

Cicely: [Have you had lunch yet?]

Santino: [Not yet.]

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

Santino did too.

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

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

mask and sunglasses hiding his well-known face.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

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

hope you’re not pressed for time.”

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

Cicely smiled as the dishes began to arrive.

“Thanks for bringing my car back.”

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

difficult.”

Cicely raised an eyebrow. “Fine by me.”

“Are you out on your own again today?”

The question felt ironic to Cicely.

“Is that strange?”

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

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

your age seems a bit lonely too soon.”

Lonely.

Cicely paused. The word felt foreign to her.

She had never considered it a description for herself.

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

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

annoying.”

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

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

“Considerate and understanding?”

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

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

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

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

you through more efficient work.

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

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

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

more you’ve won.”

Cicely’s gaze turned distant.

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

The more it hurts, the more she wins.

Savoring Santino’s words, Cicely smiled.

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

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

Cicely remained noncommittal.

After all, actors portray life in all its facets.

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

for a while.”

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

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

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

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

gratitude.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

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

Santino seemed quite pleased with the idea.

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

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

wedding photos.

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

There were two photos.

One was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

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

suggest such a clichéd stance.

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

might take in the future.

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

of its authenticity.

“Great, wrap it up for me.”

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

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

Actually, he was completely taken aback.

“Just two wedding photos?”

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

fitting.”

Santino nodded in understanding.

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

sunglasses, he was recognized.

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

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

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

Congratulations, you look stunning.”

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

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

you?”

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

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

he proposed with is the same brand you endorse.”

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

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

photo with her.

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

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

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

all the best.”

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

They both chuckled at the apparent misunderstanding.

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

Santino took them casually.

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

picture on social media?”

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

“Thank you.”

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

“Any plans now?” he asked.

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

ago.

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

and rejecting her lunch.

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

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

needs, including trips to the bathroom.

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

very noon.

Santino was right.

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

If not for her, then for someone else.

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

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

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

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

there.”

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

Issac dismissed the caregiver Seth had arranged for Danielle and replaced

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

even the unexpected ones, had been meticulously arranged.

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

the call and dialed Cicely’s number.

— Powered off.

His brow furrowed, and he then called the apartment.

Enter title…

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

yet.”d2

“Alright,” Seth replied coolly.

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

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

been dining out quite often lately.”

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

“Sure thing.”

*

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

past two years.

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

didn’t skimp on expenses.

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

lighting and the sound quality were top-notch.

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

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

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

interest.

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

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

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

Boring.

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

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

recognized her.

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

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

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

with the staff.

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

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

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

excruciating detail?”

“Not quite.”

Cicely sighed. “Sounds dull.”

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

“It better be the best meal ever.”

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

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

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

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

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

personified.

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

caught their attention.

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

responsible for Santino’s interview was curious about her.

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

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

opportunity that they were just friends.

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

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

up a frenzy.

Their plans did not include a love affair for Santino.

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

Cicely was after the interview.

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

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

was already dark outside.

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

seeing him, they erupted into excited screams.

Santino waved back with a smile.

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

anxious.

“Santino, who is she?”

“Is she your new assistant?”

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

chaos, explaining that they were just friends.

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

moment.

Some fans even started crying on the spot.

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

detached amusement.

“What a spectacle,” she remarked.

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

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

find them ridiculous?”

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

suffocating.”

Cicely narrowed her eyes, “How so?”

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

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

happy.”

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

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

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

later.”

Cicely understood; such people did exist.

“That does sound suffocating.”

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

interested in the topic at all.

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

they’ll be returned to you shortly.”

Cicely did as instructed.

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

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

Cicely was genuinely intrigued.

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

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

dish she had seen in a movie.

*

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

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

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

she glanced towards the door.

“Sir, you’re back.”

“Yes. Where is she?”

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

She had thought the couple would come home together.

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

phone and continued to call Cicely.

Voicemail.

It had been voicemail all afternoon.

He turned and dialed Charlie’s number instead.

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

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

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

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

Hollywood-themed diner.”

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

speechless.

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

online. You’ll see.”

Online.

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

overwhelming.

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

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

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

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

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

who knew her could recognize her without a doubt.

Seth’s eyes were cold and terrifying.

Carly shivered from where she stood.

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

turning to walk into the living room.

“Carly, you can head home.”

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

instructions.

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

“I’ll take care of it.”

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

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

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

still simmering on the stove.

*

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

frequently on his watch.

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

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

uncomfortable it will be for you.”

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

Santino fell silent.

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

He was trending.

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

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

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

Santino didn’t make much of it.

After dinner, Santino handed her a scarf.

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

recognized.”

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

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

When they stepped out, Santino shielded Cicely behind him.

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

Who was she?

Was Santino in love?

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

The assistant tried to explain, to no avail.

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

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

displeasure was clear.

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

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

to know who.”

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

persistent journalists.

Santino pulled Cicely away.

*

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

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

pulling up to the apartment building.

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

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

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

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

man opposite her.

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

building.

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

around his neck.

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

tightened as he turned away from the window.

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

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

with his back to her.

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

coat, then bending down to change her shoes.

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

with a detached gaze.

Cicely glanced at him and gathered her statically charged hair.

“Did you come back early today?”

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

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

toward the bedroom while tying it up.

“You can wash your hands outside too.”

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

lingered on him for even a second.

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

within him, his voice tense and cold.

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

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

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

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

toward the bedroom.

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

bedroom entrance.

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

“What are you doing?”

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

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

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

“Drinking again?”

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

I’m tired and want to rest early.”

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

face in her neck.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seth had never been treated like this before.

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

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

her onto the bed.

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

to the mattress.

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

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

breath a chilling mix of anger and frost.

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

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

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

you’re expecting from me?

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

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

Her lips twisted into a defiant smirk.

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

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

into some heartless jerk?”

Enter title…

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

She had actually considered all of this.

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

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

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

Danielle go?”

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

and dripping with sarcasm.

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

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

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

Seth remained silent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

my face and laugh at my failure.

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

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

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

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

mockery.

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

Whether Cicely liked him was always clear.

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

o why did he lose control tonight?

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

her face.

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

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

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

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

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

such things so easily.

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

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

they’re worthless.”

Her expression briefly turned chillingly cold and dismissive before she pushed

him away and left for the bathroom without a word.

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

*

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

hair, clearly post-shower as well.

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

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

changed by Seth.

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

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

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

with a calm expression.

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

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

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

window.

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

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

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

“Right.”

“Good. I trust you.”

What other choice did she have?

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

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

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

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

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

Seth paused, then pulled her into his arms.

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

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

her through and through.

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

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

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

arms still tight around her.

Would she leave him?

How could she?

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

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

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

way to mend or fill it.

*

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

point to check in at the apartment in person.

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

and had woken up early.

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

the door for Charlie.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Charlie caught the keys deftly and immediately went downstairs.

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

room.

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

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

was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

hang them up.”

“Sure thing.”

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

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

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

remembering when.

Her tone suggested she was in a good mood.

“A bit to the right.”

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

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

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

bullets.

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

steady.

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

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

ought to have built some rapport.”

Charlie nearly leapt out the nearby window.

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

“Time to eat.”

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

left. There, that’s perfect.”

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

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

“Time for breakfast.”

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

After breakfast, Seth and Cicely left the apartment together.

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

to the office.

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

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

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

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

the affair that the matter finally settled.

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

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

had deliberately quashed the story.

Cicely didn’t dwell on it.

Once it was over, it was over.

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

caused.

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

it was best to let it go.

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

her.

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

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

evenings.

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

his work.

His efficiency visibly increased.

Yet, it was clear he was getting tired.

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

find reasons to be understanding and to feel for them.

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

accommodate them.

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

want to see him exhausted.

Thankfully, it was only for a week.

*

Cicely spent a day resting at home during the holiday.

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

trouble at the hospital again.]

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

leading to another emotional breakdown.

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

was all an act to garner attention.

It had worked for her before.

Danielle’s room was in disarray.

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

deliberate mess.

Cicely visited around noon, bringing lunch from home.

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

shifting to a feigned calm as she faced Cicely coldly.

“Here to gloat over me again?”

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

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

around?”

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

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

someday.”

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

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

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

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

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

your grand design.”

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

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

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

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

remember, Danielle, you still owe me.”

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

and arranged the lunch before Danielle.

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

smirk forming on her lips as she turned to Cicely.

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

me with kindness?”

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

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

use that term to describe me?”

Danielle’s face turned sour with malice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

anger and agitation.

get all worked up, you know. Getting angry is bad for

bedridden for life, Seth and I will be

Enter title…

her coldly and then let out a mocking laugh.

I really am disabled for life, you’ll never be

off.”d2

as she looked at Danielle, who

hope. Cicely gave a faint smile.

you, even if you wish for a life of

Seth. Even blood relatives fed

do you think you

or four decades to live? How patient do you

Or rather, do you

someone disabled?”

violently as she glared

to her most

for a second that you’re off

dream of running away. You were so proud,

dig you up from your grave and lash

you get better soon, you might be able

blame me

teeth, Danielle eyed the neatly laid out food before her. Her

icy, detached voice

myself

and over until you’re willing to eat, that’s if you don’t find

annoying.”

as her arm began to lift, it froze in place. To eat or

Cicely would win.

appetite.

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

she eats or

“Understood.”

a

look at her again, turning towards the door to leave. But

could take two steps, the door swung

paused, her expression darkening as the man who entered caught

The sight of Cicely brought a

the restroom, rushed in, positioning

front of Cicely.

behind Issac, furrowed her brows as

he opened the door. She reached out

feeling

his teeth clenched as

mixed with rage.

you think you’re misdirecting your anger?

who nearly took advantage of

settle that score yet,

castrated you myself.”

hit Ray

never

night?”

gaze lowered slightly, “Does what he say negate the fact that you

raped me?”

with a faint smile, she added, “I’m

it. Let’s put our grievances aside

facts straight. It was your drunken folly that

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

dependent. Let’s not

listening to the exchange,

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

know Danielle is the

Cicely nodded with a smile, “Then I must have

cleared up, I’ll take my

shielded Cicely as they left the hospital

hold him

by yesterday, but I

in her hands

the

vivid and terrifying that even the mere thought of

shudder.

“Miss?”

seems Mr. Ray is quite fond

playboy, surrounded by a constant

feelings

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

his family on the brink,

this charade for Danielle. It’s clear she

by his

frowned at the

Danielle so much he’d nearly get her

*

room, Ray stood by

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

give Ray any

clumsily, she shoveled food into

indifference.

dog-eat-dog world. Regardless of

she said, not looking up from her plate.

him now, and your

for a comeback, but now, you guys

blown it for good.”

so tight his

orchestrated the downfall

Danielle. I’ve told you not to be fooled by

My dad said the moment

his sights set on bringing us

a guy who hasn’t graduated

these things to make everyone relax their guard

suddenly delivered a fatal blow. He

and ruthless. That night, I wasn’t simply

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

receiving

She had pondered

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

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

you wouldn’t believe it, which is why

up before. I’ve checked with the doctors about

a rough road ahead. I came

ask you

still didn’t look up, her voice restrained

front of that car for him, was it truly out

or was it just a ploy to

mid-bite and finally turned to

my only desire was to

gave a melancholic smile. “It’s different.

expect my father to be so obstinate.

severe, would you

her fork down and looked up

answer are you

lips together. “You should

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

didn’t expect

not brushing you off. If I had died, what would be the

not, that’s the answer

play the villain in front of me to push me

you, it’s like denying everything

would, but since I can’t, I need to find a reason for

never seen Ray this composed yet so obsessively insane.

trembled slightly. She was

to lose, there was no telling what kind of madness

to.

*

Issac stepped out of the elevator on

across

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

imperceptibly when

on her purse slackened for a moment

faint smile on

gaze was heavy. “You hate hospitals.

heard she had another episode. Came to check on her with

she glanced

bullying a cripple, so don’t

appeared here not long after Cicely arrived at the

instantly grasped what Seth was

here on your behalf to check on Miss

lately. She thought it might give you

faltered for a

neck,

subtle smile at the corners of her eyes and lips was

your presence might exacerbate

even leading to harm.”

smile. “I have Issac with me.

when I’m fully able

“The sooner she recovers, the

ties with her.”

Cicely replied, hands tucked into

I braved the

anger, just a

the more she displayed it, the clearer Seth could

sarcasm and rebellion.

Seth reached out to pull

learned just

aside, avoiding his touch.

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

sharing a meal with

such blunt rejection,

The question floated into Seth’s ears, simple

a brief pause, he looked up

room for an answer, as if the question itself had

in her

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

settled into the car and pondered for

Dad at the

“Alright.”

the gates of

window at the sprawling manor, feeling an

The dark green pines stood tall but failed to bring any

vitality.

her brows, and the

the car and

empty, with servants occasionally moving about

to be cautious. “Miss, you’re

her arrival, a look of

us a heads

glanced upstairs,

ago and

he’s fallen asleep.”

did he

made some buckwheat

the stairs, turning to look at Brody from

step, “And what else?”

hesitated, “There were a couple of

frown deepened as she turned and headed straight for

face, she ordered the servants to

plate of the brownish buckwheat

salad of carrots

of ham and cheese.

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

for my father’s

were too frightened to reply,

said helplessly, “Sir has been preferring lighter

specifically asked for these dishes.

touch them. Elderly folks’ meals

no

enough not to doubt his words, but

was always a feast of

study, she found Creighton slumped

a book resting on his chest, his head tilted,

hit Cicely, and her eyes

one master. That grand dining table now set

corner

in

alone

deeply in

gently covering him

out of the study.

woke from his nap and came downstairs to

with the servants, his face lit

rascal, why didn’t you

secrets to hide before I

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

be so many quarrels?” Cicely

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

missing all the home-cooked

over for dinner

“You’ll have to ask him. He listens

to me.”

I’ll talk to

glued to Creighton for the rest of the afternoon. She badgered

teaching her chess, playfully demanding take-backs that left

amused and exasperated.

son squared off

in with

golden;

was lively and bustling, and

Ellis family seemed to have returned to how it used

be.

Creighton inquired

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

“Are you two

us

Creighton relented.

Cicely still sent Seth a message. [I’m at the

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.

and she didn’t wait

up at the Ellis estate’s doorstep.

Seth with his coat. “Why

imply

her voice neutral, “No, it

know.”

there’s no reason for

invitation for us

pulled her into his embrace

the living

closeness, smiled,

few

“Not yet.”

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

dishes were all tailored

on joining him for dinner, but as she stepped

of her father and Seth in the living

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

two

“Just came out

the coffee table, bending down to pick up her

headed back to the dining

Enter title…

to dine with

he glance up at

Ellis family estate isn’t as cozy

bottle, her expression nonchalant. “There’s

for the

emotion crossed Seth’s brow as he methodically chewed

down his

not explain myself

understand very well. Now that you’ve explained it, it’s even

a sip, “I said I’m not fighting with you. There’s no

the

napkin,

just on

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

but you’re short on time. In fact, on

staying, but then I saw my dad and changed my

me, but he could use some company. Are

I’m not fighting

face was impassive, her lips curled in an almost imperceptible

part, coupled with her

been placed on the question she had

noon.

believe it? If not,

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

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

home,

sip from his

by his easy

even if he disagreed

Cicely came to understand why he mentioned

such an easy compromise.

and grandfather in the study.

their conversation would be about—nothing

matters.

shopping app for little home

and notebooks with pens.

but she liked doodling

front door was knocked, the servant opened

stepping inside. “Ms.

at him, “How heartless, sending you out in such

of the

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

upstairs discussing matters. You can

have an errand. Mr.

I’ll be on

up, turned around, and noticed

Charlie. Brody, seeing this, quickly directed the servant

suitcase upstairs.

didn’t linger, bidding farewell

glass of milk. After finishing

upstairs.

talk about for so long without any sign

The servant had

some clothes and went to the bathroom where

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

slid into the tub and

the bathroom window was a view of the garden and a

rotating ground lights. It seemed they had been

especially for her return.

had

years, glimpsing at them had become a habit

bathtub, staring at that place

pressed down against the edge of the tub, twisted a

over her eyes.

into the water, soothing her fatigue. With the

She drifted in and out of sleep

felt a sudden chill.

the coolness, and she instinctively slid

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

away, and she looked up to see

side of the tub.

first to

she was startled, but it was by the man who

The warmth of the room had

feel cold.

did, guess who’d be to blame.” Cicely tried to shake off his grip, but he let

stood next to her and began to

“What are you

a beat, dropping his clothes into the

does one do in a

paused, grabbed the towel beside the tub

leave, she was scooped up into his arms.

chest and glared up at him. “Seth!

to do?”

in his arms, her face

bath, more radiant than usual. He smirked, planting

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

embarrassingly, “You should be able

without drowning.”

her quiet, gentle demeanor,

a prickly aura, he preferred her current

demeanor.

run his fingers

hair

“No.”

warm spray of the shower interrupted Cicely’s

hadn’t waited for her consent before

Seth’s hand covered her eyes. “Close

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

her anger before it

an inch, as the towel

away

awkward, her arms crossing in front

modesty she could.

shampoo into her hair with patience, massaging

close into his chest to rinse it clean with the

lowered and eyes closed,

all, there were more

fallen for

her hair, he nudged her

took a quick

with a cool expression,

Are you planning to

there any reason

it’s quite a trek from here

insist on staying here. I can’t

will.”

anger tinged

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

to spending a

better.”

sleep

should I?” Seth’s gaze drifted leisurely over her face and

contours of her body.

he reached out to

warm water from the shower cascading

eyes closed to prevent water from flowing into

his succinct and cryptic response, which left her

she suddenly felt something insistent pressing against her and

Seth had already set the showerhead aside, his hand on

should get

“Let go. I can

going

closed

and he moved with a familiarity that made it

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

“This is

but you seemed

it down in

of Cicely’s legs was wrapped around his

vision blurred until she

hairdryer and slipping her into pajamas, Seth

him, her

circled to the other side of the bed, facing her. As

turn away, his long arm scooped her into his

resist, knowing he’d only persist if she

too exhausted to

*

The next day.

up, Seth was already gone. The patchy

ones

was considerate, gentle, and protective—or so

Yet now, with her body

all too pleased.

into

and listless, she found Creighton and her

returned from their morning exercise and were already two chess

Creighton shook his head with a mix

really should fix that habit

offered by the servant, sipped half of it, and

the best

breakfast is bad for your health, and too much sleep

either. Breakfast is the most important

you leave

irritation left Cicely speechless for

to the office. Why

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

ending up clueless. What? Didn’t Seth

showing clear

he didn’t mention

“You’re quite good at passing the buck to

he really didn’t

she genuinely didn’t know, Creighton dropped the

with your grandfather

come?”

her legs onto the couch,

blend of elegance and

you’ll have lunch

just returned, and they were already leaving

name had come up several times

if leaving her alone in the hospital

a table was incredibly inappropriate and heartless.

visit the

Anyone who dared say the

Danielle would have a problem with

returned in time for dinner. His timing

headed upstairs first, while Cicely sat

up to her bedroom, where Seth was busy

desk.

to the bathroom, and upon

behind her. After a quick shower, she

into bed to play with

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

on the bed, walked over, brushed

a gentle peck on the lips. “I’m going to shower. Don’t fall

for me,

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

you up to?”

teasing, “What

rest tonight?”

mumbled, “Then what am

chuckled, “Mrs. Diaz, there are plenty of

pushed him gently, “Then hurry up and

her, Seth’s body pressed

penetrating with

gasping for air. She

whimper. It was

on her, just barely.

kiss me to death?” she

guard with

I wouldn’t dream

me just now, Mrs. Diaz,” he

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

face just inches from hers. A

warrants a penalty for self-justification, then what

misunderstand me? Shouldn’t I consider how to

same amused expression, yet a

ahead. Punish me any way you see

tilted her head, calmly and seriously meeting his gaze.

because I’m so into

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

curved jawline, “So, ask yourself,

give

raised an eyebrow and ran her

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

eyes, Seth felt a subtle stir in his

caressing her smooth chin, “You like me

moved from his face to his

you ever heard,

someone at the start, the more

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

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

I doubt it will. I wouldn’t choose to

sting to the nerve, his

he cracked a faint smile. He let

was already missing two buttons

unfastened the rest.

early, so be

and then paused, “If

you up my way.”

find out what

Seth emerged from the shower, Cicely was propped up

at him, then refocused

game.

into bed and snatched the phone from

something you need to tell

join me at the office tomorrow

swiped and tapped on her

about business, what am I

do there?”

little, you wouldn’t need

in

I have

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

on you

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

now or in the future, your only

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

and start eating away at you, swallowing

even know

around you is

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

family is mine, isn’t it

only when truly in your own hands, is

makes you insecure?

you? Or maybe you want to leave me one day without

Turning to her, his gazes were

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

a

beyond these two reasons, is there

improve, and

shifted, the shadow in their depths replaced by a shallow

quick to assume. In fact, instead of you being

on why I

handed her phone back, “I’ve downloaded some files to

sleep, and ask

understand tomorrow.”

phone, the document app he had

a blur of text. “What

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

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

mood.”

coat, and walk out.

it wasn’t

a tantrum.

＊

his study for two

his face looking worse

the lights had dimmed, leaving only

with the phone in her

reignited.

Heartless woman.

taking the phone from her hand and glanced at the

she hadn’t closed.

for her before

sleeping face

a rush

and tossing it aside,

his face cold as he pulled her into his

to the man’s arms and scent, shifted comfortably

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

moment, Seth wanted to wake her up, maybe keep

one sentence, she fell silent again, and any

petty.

＊

he woke Cicely with

a cup of strong coffee. Even for school, Cicely rarely awoke

morning grumpiness,

robbed of breath.

him hard a

mind?!”

swung his legs out of bed, “Time

shine, off to

Cicely yanked the comforter

show your face.” Seth’s voice carried a serious

Cicely didn’t budge.

make me do this

off with a huff, sat up,

could she muster just

a pillow

was close by, and the pillow barely registered upon

I’m not

pillow, and placed it back on the bed,

up by the

If you don’t want me to wake

back to sleep.”

teeth in frustration. As Seth turned away, the

into a

and stomped off to the bathroom,

squeezing toothpaste onto his

reflection in the mirror.

subtle raise of his eyebrows, he shifted aside to

took her brush, and Seth, as if

reflection. Seth nonchalantly placed the

aside.

she started brushing. It was not like she needed his

simple as toothpaste. The frothy white

smile

to the Ellis

document from last

to know anything.

pages. So what am I supposed to do at the office,

just smiled

understood why he hadn’t mentioned coming

He had prepared a new desk and chair in the corner, waiting

immediate deployment.

computer;

face away,

excuse, “There are printed copies

matter

she moved to the desk and

pile of folders.

don’t understand, and we can go

you

to a

frowned, “You’re leaving me

in the office

reading; I’ll

mouth to retort but

glanced at her before leaving

been darting around, a clear sign she was up to no good.

she possibly stir up in the

Cicely did take the documents

marks with her pen, but within half an hour, the pen

her phone

left the office, returning after another half-hour to

She rummaged through the drawers, fiddled

doodled on a black leather notebook

she played with her phone and then, noticing

and

Cicely sat

student.

you get through?” he

it’s new to me, so I’m

a whole morning and you’re proud

stung.

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

approached his desk, noticing the black notebook

open, he found her doodles—a

written in a confident,

flushed slightly, but

nonchalance.

lips and took a deep

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

tidied the documents away. Seth waited for

as if it

his nose and sank

Come over here.”

No complaints

clutched the files and

his long arm pulled her into an embrace.

leaning back with

grip tightened around her waist, his voice deep and serious,

one taking liberties here,

“What do you mean?”

in the day, you’d

Now, you can’t even be bothered to

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

is?”

an eyebrow, “Respectful? That’s because

it’s intentional,

reeked of impunity, but Seth had

like harboring

current relationship, that would mean cheating,

Seth was momentarily speechless.

victorious, smiled, “What’s

me, it’s to

her away and leaned back in his chair,

his expression

Cicely watched him—

man was annoyed

from a local diner, indeed

no intention

“Aren’t you eating?”

out by the rhythmic clacking

His mood was

was suffused with the unmistakable vibe

a big deal’.

eat all this by

a table laden with food, while he didn’t

her way.

leave it. Nobody said you

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

tonight.”

at her with an icy

couch and picked up the elegantly

have to sleep together every night. If you

until you’re

was stoic, “How long are

attitude with me?”

the innocent, “Isn’t it

to keep butting heads with

her silverware tightened before relaxing.

continued to

and

Seth fell silent.

*

been at the Ellis Corporation

stayed in his

off, but under Seth’s

him summoning various department heads for updates on all

progress reviews, the office atmosphere was

of the Ellis family, even if it was

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

the workday approached,

department leaders’ trembling, overly respectful demeanors and

much progress with the paperwork,

hadn’t commented on it.

for a bit. Mom’s shopping

in a while.”

brow twitched, “I should

need, I’ve

and moved to the door to put on her

Cicely wasn’t the

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

with things as they come. If Patty was in

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

Patty wasn’t her

naturally, Cicely wasn’t

She cozied up in the lounge area, wrapping an

around Seth’s.

offered them

Enter title…

aside to take a call and returned after a few minutes,

sip of warm

broke the ice. “Spit it out,

fascinating about my face?”d2

grimaced. She’d always been told if she

ask him. But with him always buzzing around, she

even

of her hair,

“I overheard

about this

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

the know-how and the development rights.

point. Instead of bidding and

over to Diaz

family, why

expression was cold. “The big fish like the Harper

all eyeing the Ellis project. Diaz International doesn’t

the Ellis family’s offer just

If the Ellis family picks Diaz International, the rest can

would kill for

just

is it just that you flat-out don’t

with the Ellis family?”

interim head of the Ellis Corporation, I can say

more fitting partners

Ellis family,

Ellis Corporation to make things easier

his stance. “What’s

is what counts. Why sweat the small stuff? If

of pride for you, I’ll

mouth twitched into a half-smile. “Is there

“Too scared to take the

point of running Diaz International? Might

way, you wouldn’t have to

Hmm, that’s actually

she thought about it,

narrowed his eyes but said

chin in her hands and smiled at

with

it into shares for you in the Ellis

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

How about

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

in Diaz International?”

twinkled. “Just occurred to me, if there’s anything on this green

you besides your mother, it’s

been thinking that I don’t really have an

that gives me an edge over you. But

might just be it.”

gaze was meaningful and unfathomable as

bit of Diaz International. So what if

the sofa, with a carefree smile on her face.

to let

lips tightened, clearly displeased

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

International under the Ellis

International ever do to tick you off?” The

familiar tone that belonged

mug, then switched on her charm as she stood

her face a stormy mix

wariness.

was just thinking out loud. Then I figured it wasn’t

on the Ellis family ain’t too shabby, right?

No need to keep

“The future is the

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

International.”

an eyebrow, her eyes carrying a mild, nonchalant smile,

to speak further. If Patty wasn’t

had already stood up, his

go.”

mindful of Seth’s expression. Patty pursed

if forcefully suppressing a

dinner at the Diaz residence, but Cicely felt

with Patty might be the real way

the night was

to the Ellis residence, Seth took

you

“Same as today.”

in the office

I’ll

arm against the car window,

her slender finger.

was silent for a few seconds before slowly

curled into a half-smile, “Should I prepare some new

you?”

her head, “No need, I’ve

Seth fell silent.

welcomed them respectfully. “Miss, we

been temporarily

like to open them now, I can bring them out

changed her shoes and said,

indeed many packages. Cicely sat cross-legged in the

to slice open

knife.

them were small items –

them but

manuals was many times more focused

when she read documents.

to find Cicely amidst

freshen up; we’re up early

him a white travel

had a notable heft, and engraved on it

her

rest of the items were pairs, hers in dark tones,

light.

think

back this time did I realize there are no traces of you

it

while still engrossed in the small items, her tone and

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

urged her to get

white tumbler in the

contentedly.

estate and setting

was still scattered, but after reviewing a couple

they were much the

department heads yesterday.

aside, paced the office, and

knock on the door.

Shane, arms laden with parcels.

addressed to you.”

till now, perked up at the sight, “Put

in Seth’s chair, she resumed her task with

an office transformed. His desk now sported

pen holder, several stylographs, a fresh

couple of notebooks.

in the corner mirrored his, albeit with a simpler

cushion on

flowers had even appeared on the

question the wisdom of leaving her alone in

though she’d done nothing out of

for lunch

countered, “How much work did

then hesitantly added a fourth, “Four

the computer, bringing up a

of Cicely’s boredom—and her

everything but work.

No surprise there.

Cicely, unaware of its contents, only saw

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

closed the video.

came closer, seeing a screen full of

the whole morning

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

over the new objects on the desk, and

I’ll take

of escaping the office for a meal was music

*

Seth stayed at the Ellis Corporation, repeating

for reports

several days, and

affairs, she couldn’t help but be

time for the company’s annual

a hectic affair.

International, and C&P were arranged to hold

the same day, at

bridges. The

south, the other north,

Diaz International’s—a

with the Ellis Corporation.

was dressed in a silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress

of silver high-heeled shoes, and

others, she still stood out as the most eyecatching in

moment of her birth, Cicely seemed destined to

in

man by her side was

for onlookers to look away.

brought her to the Diaz International

deliver the expected pleasantries,

before whisking her away

gala was orchestrated by Seth’s people,

the spotlight was on

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

almost like

guests, receiving blessings

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

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

taking care of it,” Seth

in her hand, Cicely teased with a mischievous

are a lot of celebrity beauties

glanced at her coolly, “And

even curious to

your intentions

have considered it.”

want to admire the pretty

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

personal viewing.”

about skipping the C&P gala. Cicely understood

keep a low profile there, and

after its grand slam start and the

grip, was the envy of many. Naturally,

cozy up to

Seth was not a patient man, unwilling

ingratiate themselves with him.

gala was a magnet for journalists, both

from the C&P event was deliberate, with

long after, Charlie hurriedly arrived,

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

over at Diaz International’s

demeanor darkened. As he stood to

wrist,

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

before following Charlie out.

out of sight, then

was slouched on the steps of

finished bottle of hard liquor.

he greeted Seth with a sneer, using the

his feet and

emphasizing each syllable with

venom.

laughed coldly, flashing a thumbs-up

just how ruthless you can be. Danielle

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

provoked you; we

what the we had,

on the eve

hung in the air, the implications clear to everyone

tactics, about

a whim because Ray had once made an indecent pass at

this had incensed him enough

against Ray .

it had been

seemed to confirm

a shareholder in

place immediately.” Seth

had surrendered their shares when Ray’s family

who, even after waking from a hospital stay, clung stubbornly

ten percent.

laughter was bitter, “Rest assured, I know this

International event.

I can’t tarnish it. Just as Diaz

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

International, let you taste

today?”

looked at Ray with icy detachment, “If

you think you can destroy

to strip away the last

the drunken stupor in his eyes, which now

and he looked as if he

vengeful fury.

the bottle of whiskey onto the table next to Seth

sharp shards scattering

breaking glass pierced through the festive din

skip a beat. Instinctively, her feet

strides towards Seth, her high heels a clumsy match for her urgency.

of the bottle at Seth, Cicely’s

color, and she let out

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

half a circle to avoid

clung to Seth,

onto Seth’s hand, and

about to fall out of his embrace.

moment.

collective gasp reverberated throughout the

Cicely to intervene, felt a surge of rage at the sight

blood on his

out, and

blade, seething with a

glared at Ray.

through Cicely’s

she gripped his clothes tightly, her

managed to say,

tall.

it landed on her pale,

slapped him. Stunned, he

not thinking straight. Have you had too much to

think provoking him will do you

you?!”

her voice carried

clear tremble.

to stem from the physical reaction to her pain.

her eyes made it clear to

fear, anger,

heart

resting on a clear cut on her right arm.

dark. “Where else are

and tears fell from her

panic and restlessness swirled within Seth. He

low voice, “Talk to

self-control seemed to

and broke down silently,

my ankle hurts,” she whispered, recalling

had twisted it in her

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

his arms.

had been tackled to the ground

knee on his back, restraining his

Seth and was quick

panicked cry had caused him a

bottle had swung past

had been

pinned down by Charlie and

shout at Seth’s retreating figure with red-rimmed

so damn arrogant. One day,

done!”

didn’t falter

*

hearing of Cicely’s injuries, Erik and Creighton

frenzy.

ankle and a two-centimeter laceration on her

shallow, but not

had already been treated,

eyes were red and swollen

and Creighton, she greeted them with

“Dad.”

ended a phone call and

station for the time being. Seth gave a brief nod to the Erik and Creighton. Their minds were wrapped

their concern for

his concern, which he

girl has never known a day of hardship in

the new year,

not his fault.

and

glare. “Am I not allowed to

Enter title…

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

the pain stop, then go

himself

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

a lifetime, could he not

somewhat disheveled

the gala when

him with her

Totally unexpected.

took

could process these swirling

to the

over, he saw Cicely with red eyes and pursed lips, looking as pitiful

lifted her arms and wrapped them around

knees,

sense of peace to the two old

watching.

Seth back to the Ellis

and returning to the

never mentioned leaving the Ellis

Seth stayed

Cicely company.

washing up – any time Cicely needed to

leaving her side. Apart from the

Seth was impeccable

complaint-free actions were bittersweet

carried Cicely from the bathroom to the bed where the

waiting.

process, despite the doctor’s caution,

pressure and Cicely would

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

tense as

Ellis residence, any sitting with Creighton that lasted more

turned to

bored in her room, insisted Seth take her with

just to the living room or the study.

to most of their

talk about the mechanical manufacturing

family.

postponed the deal which should have been

year to after

asked Seth if Diaz International was

the same as it had been initially with

However, Creighton didn’t dwell on

on to other matters.

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

being able to look up and see

before

been injured protecting Seth,

airs at this time. But

on previous

Ellis family prepared a lavish dinner for

the topic of the New Year’s Eve meal.

back to the Diaz family for the

surprised, as Patty’s mood didn’t match the generosity

since they were legally married, spending New

appropriate and normal thing to

glanced at

somewhat absent-mindedly.

felt a deep

when she was not at home, the vastness of

spend a

would leave him alone

*

Eve, Seth took Cicely back to the

residence.

left with them to pick up Danielle

and Creighton agreed that leaving Danielle alone

After negotiating with

bring her

image

other, feels sad just thinking about it.

up, serving as company for the

again, the thought of Danielle’s haughty, perpetually stern face

feel that it might

staff had been bustling since yesterday, and though they

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

knowing Miss Danielle

anyone at the hospital. And Cicely,

encountered Danielle, who should

face

was chatting happily with Danielle. When

the room, her expression paused for a moment, but

smiling.

her wheelchair, also had a momentary freeze

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

said that made it

here?” Seth asked, ignoring her question and

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

storm.

her lip, hands clasped tightly, not saying a

here. We couldn’t leave her all alone in the hospital over

holidays, could we?”

a surge of anger rising in her chest, but

not to let her emotions flare out

was my dad who applied for her discharge. If anyone was going to take

been the Ellis family.

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

ashamed?”

more mortified after

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

her fury. “The guest I invite

got herself injured

What’s wrong with inviting her over

of her every single day

lips curled into a sneer. “By that

an accident and play the damsel

the Ellis family’s dinners even more

turned pale with anger, and she whirled to

“This is the Ellis family’s dear

so desperate for a mother figure that you have to

her?”

her brows. “Patty, don’t take your dissatisfaction out on

you who’s making

“You…”

voice cut through the

had been light and smiling, settled on

as she quietly

celebrate, not to start a scene and make

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