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.

all worked up, you know. Getting

up bedridden for life, Seth and I will be driven

Enter title…

her coldly and then let out a mocking

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

off.”d2

eyes flickered slightly as she looked at Danielle, who seemed to

Cicely gave a faint smile. “How shameless

you, even if you wish

will Seth. Even blood relatives fed up

do you think you are in Seth’s heart?

live? How

day in and day out? Or rather, do you think Seth could ever

someone disabled?”

she glared

her

for a second that you’re off the hook just because you’re

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

dig you up from your grave and lash your

Eat up. Maybe if you get better soon, you might be

blame me

neatly laid out food before

Cicely’s icy, detached voice rang

starve myself just to spite someone.

willing to eat, that’s

annoying.”

arm began to lift, it froze in place. To

Cicely would win.

ruining my appetite. Please, leave

at the nurse standing by. “Keep an

she eats

“Understood.”

a

at her again, turning towards the door

could take two steps, the door swung

paused, her expression darkening as the

Cicely brought

the restroom, rushed in, positioning himself

front of Cicely.

furrowed her brows as she recalled

opened the door. She reached out and pushed Issac

Ray, feeling any

his teeth clenched as he

mixed with rage.

Ray, don’t you think you’re

took advantage of me

score yet, and here you

castrated you myself.”

words hit

Ray stammered, “Seth never told you what really happened

night?”

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

raped me?”

a faint smile, she added, “I’m

and genuinely regret it. Let’s put our grievances aside for now.

get your facts straight. It was

to this mess, not anyone else’s doing.

dependent. Let’s not make her

listening to the exchange, could

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

I know Danielle is the biggest

with a smile, “Then

up, I’ll take

the

so we can’t hold him

yesterday, but I didn’t let him

clenched the bag in her hands until

the chaos of that night,

that

shudder.

“Miss?”

blinked away the memories, “It seems Mr.

rich playboy, surrounded by a constant stream

feelings

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

With his family on the brink, he’s willing

Danielle. It’s clear

was orchestrated by his family for

at

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

*

by Danielle’s

I had no

Ray any more

shoveled food into her

indifference.

dog-eat-dog world. Regardless of the tactics used, your family

said, not looking up from her plate. “Is it really necessary to

now, and your family

for a comeback, but

blown it for good.”

his

the downfall of my family from

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

imagine. My dad said

his agency, he had his sights set

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

on these things to make everyone relax their guard against him,

a fatal blow. He played innocent but was

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

hadn’t shown up, who do you

receiving

drained of color. She had pondered

it. She didn’t want to confront the

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

you wouldn’t believe it, which is

up before. I’ve checked with the

road ahead. I came

ask

still didn’t look up, her voice restrained and flat.

in front of that car for him,

life to save him, or was it just

paused mid-bite and finally turned to look

a motive, my only desire was to win

smile. “It’s different. The accident was

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

severe, would you still have stepped

a long silence, Danielle set her fork down and looked up

are

lips together. “You should

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

“I didn’t expect you to

had died, what would be the point of saving

true or not, that’s

have to play the villain in front of me to

for you, it’s like denying everything I’ve ever felt. If I

would, but since I can’t, I need to find

Ray this composed yet

blanket trembled slightly. She was afraid of Ray

no telling what kind of madness

to.

*

and Issac stepped out of the elevator

across the

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

furrowed imperceptibly when he

her purse slackened for a

smile on her

gaze was heavy. “You hate hospitals.

another episode. Came to check on her

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

bullying a cripple, so don’t

after Cicely arrived at

what Seth was worried about.

to check on

it

faltered

her neck, presenting only

of her eyes and lips

are volatile, and your presence might exacerbate them,

even leading to harm.”

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

could hurt me when

“The sooner she recovers, the

ties with her.”

into the

why I braved the

demeanor. No overt anger, just a serene and

more she displayed it, the clearer Seth could sense her

sarcasm and rebellion.

lunch?” Seth reached out

learned just a week

avoiding his touch. “Whether

time to join me. And as it happens, I

meal

blunt

ever trusted me?” The question floated into Seth’s ears, simple

brief pause, he looked up to find

leave room for an answer, as if the question itself had

conclusion in her

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

car and pondered for a moment, her expression

Dad at

“Alright.”

the gates

window at the sprawling manor,

The dark green pines stood tall but failed to bring any sense

vitality.

furrowed her brows, and the already somewhat suppressed

out of the car and

occasionally

be cautious. “Miss, you’re

at the sound of her arrival, a look of

give us a

upstairs,

and was reading in the study. Not sure

he’s fallen asleep.”

he have

some buckwheat

her ascent up the stairs, turning

step, “And what else?”

were a couple of

she turned and headed straight for

face, she ordered the servants to bring

of the brownish buckwheat wraps remained, along with

a light salad of carrots

of ham and cheese.

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

you prepared for my father’s

frightened to reply, their

“Sir has been preferring lighter meals these

specifically asked for these dishes. Even if

touch them. Elderly folks’ meals are quite simple. When you’re

sir says there’s no

enough not to doubt his words, but in

was always a

Creighton

his chest, his head tilted, seemingly asleep.

Cicely, and her

vast estate now had but one master. That grand dining table

a humble corner

in love, insisting on living with Seth

her father alone in the

deeply in

covering him with a

out of the study.

Creighton woke from his nap and came downstairs to

his face lit

didn’t you

to hide

at her. “You’re not fighting with Seth

there be so many quarrels?” Cicely laughed,

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

on my break, missing all the home-cooked

over for dinner

“You’ll have to ask him. He listens to

to me.”

talk

glued to Creighton for the rest of

demanding

amused and exasperated.

arrived, father and son squared off while she placed bets and

chiming in with

bristled, “Silence is golden;

bustling, and even the servants

entire Ellis family seemed to have

be.

dinner, Creighton inquired

said he was too busy to make it

glance, “Are you two

for us

Creighton relented.

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

coming home tonight.]

dramatic runaway scenario

she couldn’t let Grandpa

anything amiss.

and she didn’t

the Ellis estate’s doorstep. Cicely concealed

Seth with his coat. “Why are

your message imply for me

voice neutral, “No,

know.”

for a married

an invitation for us

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

the living room. “Good

closeness, smiled, “I’ve heard you’ve

past few days,

“Not yet.”

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

all

planned on joining him for dinner, but

with the inexplicable stares of her father and Seth in the

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

chimed in, “You two aren’t fighting,

deep breath, “Just came out

coffee table,

headed back to the dining

Enter title…

seemed to have anticipated her return to dine with him,

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

the Ellis family estate isn’t as cozy

bottle, her expression nonchalant.

for

brow as he methodically chewed

set down his

I not explain

that you’ve

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

wasting time over the

dabbed his mouth with a napkin,

here just on

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

short on time. In fact,

I saw my dad and changed

time for me, but he could use some

not fighting

her lips curled in an almost imperceptible

with her subtle expression, it

on the question she had left

noon.

he believe it? If not, she would

in amusement. “If you want to

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

home,

took a sip from his water glass. “As

by his easy acquiescence,

he disagreed today,

came to understand why

such an easy compromise.

and grandfather in the study. It

her what their conversation would be

matters.

app for little home decor

sets, and notebooks with pens. Not

liked doodling

knocked, the servant opened it to

of frost, stepping inside. “Ms. Cicely,

sending you out in such

middle of the

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

discussing matters. You can sit and wait

just have an errand. Mr. Seth asked me to

on my way

turned around, and noticed a gray suitcase

Charlie. Brody, seeing this, quickly

suitcase upstairs.

didn’t linger, bidding farewell

brought up a glass of milk. After

upstairs.

those men possibly have to talk about for so long

out? The servant had

some clothes and went to the bathroom where the

since

temperature, she slid into the tub and

bathroom window was a view of the

ground lights. It seemed they

especially for her return.

of boredom, she had asked her father

years, glimpsing at them had become a habit

the bathtub, staring at that place

the tub,

over her eyes.

water, soothing her

She drifted in and out of

felt a sudden chill.

the coolness, and she instinctively slid

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

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

side of the tub.

to be the first to drown

but it was by the man

room had dissipated

feel cold.

tried to shake off his grip, but he let

next to her and began

frowned, “What are you

continued without missing a beat, dropping his clothes into the

do in a bathroom?

towel beside the tub to cover herself,

she could leave, she was scooped up into his arms.

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

to do?”

at the woman in his arms, her face flushed from

more radiant than usual. He

was low and

indignation deflated embarrassingly, “You should be

without drowning.”

Compared to her quiet,

prickly aura, he preferred her current bold,

demeanor.

retort, he began to run his fingers through her wet hair.

your hair

“No.”

warm spray of the shower interrupted

hadn’t waited for her consent before turning

Cicely, but Seth’s hand covered her eyes.

that Cicely lacked principles, but that this man had a

her anger before

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

away

arms crossing in front of her, trying to cover

modesty she could.

shampoo into her hair with patience,

her close into his chest to rinse

closed,

After all, there were more than a

fallen for

to her hair, he nudged her

he took a quick shower

cool expression, Cicely asked, “Charlie brought

you planning

there any

apartment, it’s quite a trek

here. I can’t exactly

will.”

flicker of anger

as he drew closer to her. “It’s okay.

to spending

better.”

sleep

leisurely over her

contours of her body.

eyes darkened imperceptibly, and he reached out to pull

the warm water from the shower cascading

eyes closed to prevent water from flowing

succinct and cryptic response, which left her

she suddenly felt something insistent pressing against her and came

already set the showerhead

should get out

“Let go. I can

not going out just

Seth’s lips closed over hers

and he moved with a familiarity that made it

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

than pain. “This is the Ellis

you seemed not to

to keep it down

legs was wrapped around his waist, and

until she was

off the hairdryer and slipping her into pajamas,

from him, her soft

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

away, his long arm scooped her into

knowing he’d only persist

exhausted to continue

*

The next day.

was already gone. The patchy marks

with new ones added from last

protective—or so he seemed. Any pain in

Yet now, with her body

all too pleased.

slipping into her loose loungewear, she

and listless, she found Creighton and her

from their morning exercise and were already

Seeing Cicely, Creighton shook his head with a mix of

“You really should fix that habit

the milk offered by the servant, sipped

in is the best part

breakfast is bad for your health,

Breakfast is the most important meal. Why are

didn’t you leave with

Cicely speechless

Why would I leave with

duh! Perfect timing with your holiday.

company instead of ending

clear reluctance. “No, he probably

he didn’t mention

good at passing

he really didn’t

that she genuinely didn’t know, Creighton dropped the subject.

hospital with your grandfather to see Danielle. You want

come?”

the couch,

of elegance and lazy

lunch by yourself

and they were

come up several times at the

her alone in the hospital

table was incredibly inappropriate and heartless. After a

visit the hospital the

say

have

in time for dinner.

he headed upstairs first, while Cicely sat with Creighton and

up to her bedroom, where Seth was busy

desk.

the bathroom,

After a quick shower, she emerged to find

climbed into bed to play

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

on the bed, walked over, brushed her forehead with

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

for

lazily, “How horny can you be? It’s been

you up to?”

of teasing, “What makes

rest tonight?”

mumbled, “Then what

of things we have yet

him gently, “Then hurry up

being pushed away by her, Seth’s body

with

found herself gasping for air. She lifted her

soft whimper. It was only then that Seth eased

on her, just barely.

to death?” she managed to say between

off guard with

him. “Kiss you to death? I wouldn’t dream of

me just now, Mrs. Diaz,” he said with a

“Misunderstood?” Cicely’s

from hers. A gentle smile tinged her

a penalty

misunderstand me? Shouldn’t I consider how

amused expression, yet a chill seemed to

me any

slightly tilted her head, calmly and seriously meeting his gaze. “You

that because I’m so

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

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

give

an eyebrow and ran her hand across his

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

emotion in her eyes, Seth felt

chin, “You like

hand moved from

you ever heard, love and hate are

start, the more they might

coldness crept into Seth’s warm and smiling

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

doubt it will. I wouldn’t choose

like a bee sting to the nerve, his dark eyes fixed on Cicely

smile. He let go

shirt was already missing two buttons that Cicely had undone;

unfastened the rest.

you off tonight. It’s still early,

to leave and then paused, “If you’re not obedient, I’ll

you up my way.”

had no desire to find out what his method of

Seth emerged from the shower, Cicely was propped

at him, then refocused on the

game.

and snatched the phone

there something you need

at the office tomorrow

he swiped and tapped on

don’t know anything about

do there?”

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

thing in

I have to

little girl? Do you think your dad asking you to learn

on you for

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

your life now or in the future, your only sure bet is the Ellis

family forever. If one day,

moment and start eating away at you, swallowing

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

around you

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

when truly in your own hands,

quietly, “What makes you insecure? You

Or maybe you want to leave me one

fingers froze. Turning to her, his gazes

“It sounds like you’re quite convinced

leaves a trail of

just saying. But beyond these two reasons, is there

improve, and

eyes shifted, the shadow in their depths replaced

so quick to assume. In fact,

reflecting on why I

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

you can before sleep, and ask me about anything

understand tomorrow.”

took the phone, the document app he had just

a blur of text. “What will

at her, then got out of

and I need to reflect. Naturally, I can’t stay

mood.”

coat, and

it wasn’t about reflection.

a tantrum.

＊

in his study for two hours. Approaching eleven at night,

looking

lights had dimmed, leaving only a nightlight by

with the phone in her arms,

reignited.

Heartless woman.

from her hand and glanced

she hadn’t closed.

same one he’d opened for her

face

rush to find

it aside, he watched

as he

used to the man’s arms and

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

moment, Seth wanted to wake her up, maybe

fell silent again, and any further pursuit would

petty.

＊

wasn’t petty; the next morning, he woke Cicely with a kiss that was

strong coffee.

Already prone to morning grumpiness, she was even

robbed of breath.

hard a

mind?!”

swung his legs out of bed,

off to

am not going.” Cicely yanked the

Seth’s voice carried a

Cicely didn’t budge.

make me do this

a moment, Cicely flung the comforter off with a huff,

at him, but what strength could she muster just out

a pillow at

and the pillow barely

so over this, I’m not going to

up the pillow, and placed it back on

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

don’t want me to wake you up

back to sleep.”

frustration. As Seth turned away, the corners of

a sly

covers aside and stomped off to the bathroom,

busy squeezing toothpaste onto his brush.

reflection in the mirror.

of his eyebrows, he shifted aside

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

She glanced at their reflection. Seth nonchalantly

aside.

on her task, she started brushing. It was not like she needed his

toothpaste. The frothy white

smile of her

headed to

last night

to know anything.

what am I supposed to do

just smiled

understood why he hadn’t mentioned coming

and chair in

immediate deployment.

on the computer; you can keep reading

turned her face

seemed to anticipate this excuse, “There are

She felt like no matter what excuse she came up

have an answer for it. Reluctantly, she moved to the

pile of folders.

you don’t understand, and we can go over it

will you be

to a

leaving me

wolves in

focus on the reading; I’ll be back

retort

glanced at her before leaving the

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

stir up

fact, after Seth left, Cicely did take the documents seriously for

marks with her pen, but

and her phone

left the office,

rummaged through the drawers, fiddled with the decorations,

and doodled on a

she played with her phone and then, noticing

and

Seth returned before noon. Cicely sat there, the picture of

student.

you get through?”

challenging since it’s new to me, so I’m

three files in a whole morning

stung.

fact that I’m even

desk, noticing the

it open, he found her doodles—a

written in a confident, flamboyant

flushed slightly,

nonchalance.

lips and took a

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

tidied the documents away. Seth

as

his nose and sank into his chair. “Lunch is on its

Come over here.”

No

clutched the files and approached him. Before

her into an embrace. “What the heck,

an office,” Cicely said, leaning back with a wary

her waist, his voice deep

taking liberties here,

“What do you mean?”

chuckled softly, “Back in the day, you’d concoct

Now, you can’t even

half-hearted attitude. If

is?”

an eyebrow, “Respectful? That’s because I

it’s intentional,

admission reeked of impunity, but Seth had no

harboring intentions towards

current relationship, that would mean cheating, Mr.

Seth was momentarily speechless.

victorious, smiled, “What’s

it’s to your

back

his expression and voice

Cicely watched him—

man was annoyed

from a

have no

“Aren’t you eating?”

was drowned out by the

a flat “Not hungry.” His mood was as

entire office was suffused with the unmistakable vibe

a big deal’.

this by myself?” she asked, her brow

a table laden with food,

her way.

you can’t eat it, leave it. Nobody said you had

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

tonight.”

looked up at her with an icy

settled onto the couch and picked

said we have to sleep together every night. If you

wait until you’re

long are you planning to

attitude with me?”

played the innocent, “Isn’t it you

you sure you want to keep

on her silverware

continued to

me, and I’ll sleep

Seth fell silent.

*

at the Ellis Corporation

had stayed in his

wanted to slack off, but under

with him summoning various department heads for

tedious reports and progress reviews, the office atmosphere was

well-known heiress of the Ellis family, even if it

couldn’t afford to be seen as slacking

approached, Cicely found most of her

department leaders’ trembling,

much

hadn’t commented on it.

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

in a while.”

“I should probably

need, I’ve

and moved to the door to put

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

came down to it, Cicely knew she had to

things as they come. If Patty was in a good

best to steer clear. It wasn’t

that Patty wasn’t

was biting, and naturally, Cicely wasn’t about to

She cozied up in the lounge

around Seth’s.

receptionist quickly offered them

Enter title…

to take a call and

Cicely. He took a sip of warm water

broke the ice.

fascinating about my face?”d2

been told if she didn’t

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

he hadn’t even mentioned

of her hair,

said nonchalantly, “I overheard General Manager from

was talking about this new mechanical equipment

old models. We could corner the market

Ellis family has the know-how and

of bidding and choosing another manufacturer, why

the deal over to Diaz International?

Ellis family, why haven’t

fish like the

project. Diaz International doesn’t have

with the Ellis family’s

If the Ellis family picks Diaz International, the rest can just sit on

many would kill for

do you just chicken out when you see the likes of

is it

with the Ellis family?”

head of the Ellis Corporation, I can say

fitting partners than

to work with the Ellis family,

to make things easier

stance.

line is what counts. Why sweat the

you, I’ll bang

mouth twitched into a half-smile. “Is

her brows. “Too scared to take the

the point of running Diaz International? Might

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

that’s actually

it, the more

narrowed his eyes but said

her chin in

go through with that?

for you in the Ellis family?

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

shares. How

“What’s all this rigmarole for? Why the sudden

in Diaz International?”

to me, if

your mother, it’s probably Diaz International, left

You know, I’ve been thinking that I don’t

my sleeve that gives me an edge over you. But

might just be it.”

was meaningful and unfathomable as he watched her.

of Diaz International. So what if I say

a carefree smile on her

to

thin lips tightened, clearly displeased with her

reaction, Cicely just smiled thinly. “Then

under the Ellis family banner the best

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

that belonged to none other

mug, then switched

her

wariness.

I figured it wasn’t

too shabby, right? Especially since we

soon. No need to keep things

out a scoff, “The future is the future.

a heads-up, don’t even think about

International.”

her eyes carrying a

further. If Patty wasn’t bringing it up, neither

Seth had already stood up, his expression far

go.”

Cicely, probably mindful of Seth’s expression.

as if forcefully suppressing a multitude of

they had dinner at the Diaz residence,

dining with Patty might be the

the night was out of the

back to the Ellis residence, Seth took the wheel while

are you off to

“Same as today.”

me alone in the

I’ll disturb your

the car window, twirling a strand of

her slender finger.

for a few seconds before

a half-smile, “Should I prepare some new sketchbooks

you?”

“No

Seth fell silent.

home, the butler welcomed them respectfully.

for you today; they’ve been temporarily stored

them now, I can bring them

and said, “Well, bring them

Cicely sat cross-legged in

and started to slice open the parcels with

knife.

them were small items – mugs, thermos cups, small decorations

them but also studied them. Her demeanor

many times more

when she read documents.

showered, he came down to

up; we’re up early

handed him a white

heft, and engraved on it

her was

portrait and name. The rest of the items were pairs, hers in

light.

think of

did I realize there are no traces of you

and it

the

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

her to

seeing the white tumbler in the

contentedly.

estate and setting the staff to work, Seth drove

Cicely’s focus was still scattered,

they were much the

department heads yesterday.

paced

knock on the door.

arms laden with parcels. “Ms. Cicely,

addressed to you.”

at the sight, “Put them

she resumed her

Seth returned to an office transformed. His desk now

pen holder, several

couple of notebooks.

mirrored his, albeit with

cushion

bouquet of flowers had even appeared on the coffee table.

question the wisdom of leaving her

done nothing out of

for

countered, “How much work did you

then hesitantly added a fourth, “Four

tapped a few keys on the computer, bringing up

every bit of

everything but work.

No surprise there.

Cicely, unaware of its contents, only saw Seth’s

hungry,” she stated, approaching him. Seth

closed the video.

came closer, seeing a screen full of text. Seth

spent the whole

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

new objects on the desk,

take

office for a

*

stayed at the

summoning staff for reports

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

affairs, she couldn’t

everything settled, it was time for

a hectic affair.

International, and C&P were arranged to

the same day, at the same hotel,

sky bridges. The topfloor

on the south, the

Diaz International’s—a floor apart, with no

with the Ellis Corporation.

dressed in a silver-gray, fitted cocktail dress

pair of silver

others, she still stood out as the most eyecatching

her birth, Cicely seemed

in design, yet undeniably from

was distractingly

for onlookers to look away. Cicely had

had brought her to the Diaz International gala to make the rounds,

and deliver the expected pleasantries, to clink glasses and

before whisking her away to the Ellis

gala was orchestrated by Seth’s people,

and father present, the spotlight was

and Cicely’s arrival at the Ellis

of toasts and well-wishes, almost like a

their guests, receiving blessings

their seats, Cicely mused aloud, “Isn’t the

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

are taking care of it,”

Cicely teased with

a lot of

coolly, “And plenty of

curious to take a

Seth retorted, “If your intentions

have considered it.”

want to

“Sure, one day I’ll bring them all to you for

personal viewing.”

the C&P gala. Cicely understood

a low profile there, and even

its grand slam start and the

was the envy of many. Naturally, the number

cozy up to

unwilling to waste time on

ingratiate themselves with him.

was a magnet for journalists, both overt

from the C&P event was deliberate, with plenty of reasons

away. However, not long after, Charlie hurriedly

Seth.”Mr. Diaz, Ray got drunk at the C&P gala

a commotion over at Diaz

darkened.

his wrist, “What’s

be back soon,” he said, squeezing

before following Charlie out.

of sight,

was slouched on the steps

bottle of hard liquor. His face

a sneer, using the steps

feet and approached

he slurred, emphasizing each syllable with a bitterness

each word with venom. “You’re

coldly, flashing

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

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

never provoked you; we were just in your way.

what the we had,

drama on the eve of

hung in the air, the

Seth’s tactics, about how Ray’s family

on a whim because Ray had

had incensed him enough to retaliate

against Ray .

speculated that it had been a premeditated strike.

seemed to

a shareholder in your family business,

leave this place

surrendered their shares when

from a hospital

ten percent.

I

event. I

I can’t

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

Diaz International, let you

today?”

with icy detachment, “If you

makes you think you can destroy

away the last shred of

drunken stupor in his eyes, which

he looked as if he might lunge at Seth in

vengeful fury.

whiskey onto the

shattered, sending sharp shards scattering across

breaking glass pierced through the festive din

to skip a

towards Seth, her high heels a clumsy match

jagged remains of the bottle at Seth,

and she let out

forward, pulling Seth’s arm and embracing him

circle to avoid

Seth, her body

fell onto Seth’s

his arms seemed about to fall out

moment.

gasp reverberated throughout the

Cicely to intervene, felt a

on his

his arm stood out, and his face, usually cool and

bloodied sword blade, seething

glared at Ray.

shot through Cicely’s arm

gripped

trembling with pain. “Seth,” she managed to

tall.

softened as it landed on her pale, bloodless

Cicely slapped him. Stunned, he looked at her

straight. Have

him will do you now? What if

you?!”

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

clear tremble.

stem from the physical reaction to her

in her eyes made it clear

fear, anger,

heart as he surveyed

clear cut on

dark. “Where else are

lip, and tears fell

unfamiliar panic and restlessness swirled within Seth.

voice, “Talk

to crumble under Seth’s

converged and broke down silently,

“My… my ankle hurts,” she whispered,

in her last desperate

with a grimace, bent down to scoop

his arms.

tackled to the ground

knee on his back, restraining

beside Seth and was quick to react when

panicked cry had caused him a

bottle had swung past

swiftly, Cicely had been cut on

Seth carried Cicely away, Ray, pinned down by Charlie and unable to

at Seth’s retreating

arrogant. One day, you’ll pay

done!”

didn’t falter in

*

Cicely’s injuries, Erik and Creighton rushed

frenzy.

ankle and a two-centimeter laceration

shallow, but

she had already been treated, her wounds bandaged, and

red and

Creighton, she greeted them with

“Dad.”

just ended a phone call and returned to the room.

the time being. Seth gave a brief nod to the

concern

mask his concern, which he channeled into anger towards

never known a day of hardship in her life, and

year, this happens! Seth,

his fault. I

and

glare. “Am I not allowed to speak my

Enter title…

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

make the pain stop, then go

stop,” he said, cutting himself

words were stuffed back

he not see through her

hair somewhat disheveled but still

when she had unexpectedly run up

him with her

Totally unexpected.

initial shock and anger now took on

could process these swirling emotions, the

Seth listened intently to the doctor, then stepped beside

eyes and pursed

as could be, then she lifted her arms and

under her knees, lifting her from

brought a slight sense of peace to the two old

watching.

and Seth back to the

returning to the Ellis residence

never mentioned leaving the Ellis

the gala, Seth stayed

Cicely company.

using the restroom, washing up – any time Cicely needed to

there to carry her, never leaving her

was impeccable

actions were bittersweet

from the bathroom to the bed where the

waiting.

the bandaging process, despite the doctor’s caution,

pressure and Cicely

silence from the man beside her, who seemed to

feel as tense

the Ellis residence, any sitting with

turned to

alone and bored in her room, insisted Seth

just to the living room

most

talk about the mechanical

family.

postponed the deal which

to

had asked Seth if Diaz International was interested

same as it had been initially with her.

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

on to other matters.

wasn’t interested in company

being able to

just before the new year. After all,

had been

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

than on

Ellis family prepared a lavish dinner for her.

up the topic of the

back to

as Patty’s mood didn’t match

since they were legally married,

appropriate and normal

for a moment, glanced at the young couple, and

somewhat absent-mindedly.

felt a deep pang of

not at home,

returned to spend a few days, the

for festive gatherings, would

*

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

residence.

left with them to pick up Danielle

Creighton agreed that leaving Danielle alone in the

was too heartless. After negotiating with the doctor, they

to bring

didn’t comment. However, the image of

feels sad just thinking

might liven things up, serving

the thought of Danielle’s haughty, perpetually stern face

it might be better off without

had been bustling since

not being home for the

sumptuous feast knowing Miss

anyone at the hospital.

residence, encountered Danielle, who should have been picked

face

with Danielle. When she saw

room, her expression paused for a

smiling.

wheelchair, also

crossed her face, but she brushed it

she said that made it sound like

you doing here?” Seth asked,

Cicely onto the couch. His voice was as

storm.

her lip, hands clasped

couldn’t leave her all alone in the hospital

holidays, could we?”

felt a surge of anger rising in her chest, but she fought to

best not to let her

her discharge. If anyone was going to

family.

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

ashamed?”

turned even more mortified after that brief,

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

able to contain her fury. “The

Danielle got herself injured saving Seth’s

can never repay. What’s wrong with inviting her over

of her every single day

curled into a sneer. “By that logic, any

an accident and play the damsel

Ellis family’s dinners even

anger, and she whirled to glare

is the Ellis family’s dear daughter?

mother figure that you

her?”

furrowed her brows. “Patty, don’t take your

it you who’s making

“You…”

Seth’s deep voice cut

gaze, which had been light and smiling, settled on a

as she quietly awaited

celebrate, not to start

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