The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

Chapter 2031-2040

So, what do you want to do then?”

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

speak, but no words came out.

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

hospital room spotless again.

Charlie returned with a fresh lunch from a nearby deli.

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

“Eat up.”d2

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

Enter title…

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

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

use the restroom on your own.”

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

the fork.

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

“Have you eaten?”

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

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

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

Danielle didn’t dare to press him further.

*

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

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

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

Issac stared at her silently.

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

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

make sure she gets it.”

Issac was moved. “I’ll send someone.”

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

message popped up from Emiliana.

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

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

Cicely: [I’ll add him.]

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

I

ssac was still there when she looked up.

“Why haven’t you left?”

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

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

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

driver’s ID before letting Cicely leave.

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

accepted her friend request.

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

Cicely: [Have you had lunch yet?]

Santino: [Not yet.]

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

Santino did too.

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

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

mask and sunglasses hiding his well-known face.

“Sorry to keep you waiting.”

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

hope you’re not pressed for time.”

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

Cicely smiled as the dishes began to arrive.

“Thanks for bringing my car back.”

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

difficult.”

Cicely raised an eyebrow. “Fine by me.”

“Are you out on your own again today?”

The question felt ironic to Cicely.

“Is that strange?”

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

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

your age seems a bit lonely too soon.”

Lonely.

Cicely paused. The word felt foreign to her.

She had never considered it a description for herself.

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

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

annoying.”

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

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

“Considerate and understanding?”

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

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

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

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

you through more efficient work.

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

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

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

more you’ve won.”

Cicely’s gaze turned distant.

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

The more it hurts, the more she wins.

Savoring Santino’s words, Cicely smiled.

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

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

Cicely remained noncommittal.

After all, actors portray life in all its facets.

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

for a while.”

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

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

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

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

gratitude.”

Cicely fell silent.

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

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

Santino seemed quite pleased with the idea.

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

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

wedding photos.

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

There were two photos.

One was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

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

suggest such a clichéd stance.

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

might take in the future.

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

of its authenticity.

“Great, wrap it up for me.”

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

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

Actually, he was completely taken aback.

“Just two wedding photos?”

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

fitting.”

Santino nodded in understanding.

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

sunglasses, he was recognized.

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

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

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

Congratulations, you look stunning.”

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

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

you?”

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

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

he proposed with is the same brand you endorse.”

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

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

photo with her.

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

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

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

all the best.”

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

They both chuckled at the apparent misunderstanding.

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

Santino took them casually.

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

picture on social media?”

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

“Thank you.”

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

“Any plans now?” he asked.

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

ago.

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

and rejecting her lunch.

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

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

needs, including trips to the bathroom.

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

very noon.

Santino was right.

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

If not for her, then for someone else.

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

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

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

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

there.”

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

Issac dismissed the caregiver Seth had arranged for Danielle and replaced

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

even the unexpected ones, had been meticulously arranged.

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

the call and dialed Cicely’s number.

— Powered off.

His brow furrowed, and he then called the apartment.

Enter title…

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

yet.”d2

“Alright,” Seth replied coolly.

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

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

been dining out quite often lately.”

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

“Sure thing.”

*

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

past two years.

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

didn’t skimp on expenses.

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

lighting and the sound quality were top-notch.

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

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

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

interest.

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

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

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

Boring.

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

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

recognized her.

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

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

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

with the staff.

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

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

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

excruciating detail?”

“Not quite.”

Cicely sighed. “Sounds dull.”

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

“It better be the best meal ever.”

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

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

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

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

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

personified.

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

caught their attention.

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

responsible for Santino’s interview was curious about her.

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

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

opportunity that they were just friends.

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

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

up a frenzy.

Their plans did not include a love affair for Santino.

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

Cicely was after the interview.

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

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

was already dark outside.

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

seeing him, they erupted into excited screams.

Santino waved back with a smile.

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

anxious.

“Santino, who is she?”

“Is she your new assistant?”

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

chaos, explaining that they were just friends.

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

moment.

Some fans even started crying on the spot.

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

detached amusement.

“What a spectacle,” she remarked.

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

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

find them ridiculous?”

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

suffocating.”

Cicely narrowed her eyes, “How so?”

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

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

happy.”

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

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

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

later.”

Cicely understood; such people did exist.

“That does sound suffocating.”

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

interested in the topic at all.

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

they’ll be returned to you shortly.”

Cicely did as instructed.

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

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

Cicely was genuinely intrigued.

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

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

dish she had seen in a movie.

*

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

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

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

she glanced towards the door.

“Sir, you’re back.”

“Yes. Where is she?”

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

She had thought the couple would come home together.

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

phone and continued to call Cicely.

Voicemail.

It had been voicemail all afternoon.

He turned and dialed Charlie’s number instead.

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

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

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

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

Hollywood-themed diner.”

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

speechless.

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

online. You’ll see.”

Online.

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

overwhelming.

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

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

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

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

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

who knew her could recognize her without a doubt.

Seth’s eyes were cold and terrifying.

Carly shivered from where she stood.

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

turning to walk into the living room.

“Carly, you can head home.”

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

instructions.

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

“I’ll take care of it.”

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

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

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

still simmering on the stove.

*

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

frequently on his watch.

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

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

uncomfortable it will be for you.”

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

Santino fell silent.

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

He was trending.

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

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

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

Santino didn’t make much of it.

After dinner, Santino handed her a scarf.

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

recognized.”

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

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

When they stepped out, Santino shielded Cicely behind him.

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

Who was she?

Was Santino in love?

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

The assistant tried to explain, to no avail.

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

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

displeasure was clear.

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

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

to know who.”

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

persistent journalists.

Santino pulled Cicely away.

*

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

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

pulling up to the apartment building.

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

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

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

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

man opposite her.

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

building.

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

around his neck.

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

tightened as he turned away from the window.

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

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

with his back to her.

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

coat, then bending down to change her shoes.

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

with a detached gaze.

Cicely glanced at him and gathered her statically charged hair.

“Did you come back early today?”

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

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

toward the bedroom while tying it up.

“You can wash your hands outside too.”

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

lingered on him for even a second.

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

within him, his voice tense and cold.

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

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

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

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

toward the bedroom.

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

bedroom entrance.

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

“What are you doing?”

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

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

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

“Drinking again?”

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

I’m tired and want to rest early.”

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

face in her neck.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Seth had never been treated like this before.

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

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

her onto the bed.

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

to the mattress.

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

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

breath a chilling mix of anger and frost.

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

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

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

you’re expecting from me?

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

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

Her lips twisted into a defiant smirk.

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

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

into some heartless jerk?”

Enter title…

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

She had actually considered all of this.

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

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

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

Danielle go?”

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

and dripping with sarcasm.

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

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

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

Seth remained silent.

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

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

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

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

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

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

my face and laugh at my failure.

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

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

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

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

mockery.

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

Whether Cicely liked him was always clear.

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

o why did he lose control tonight?

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

her face.

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

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

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

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

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

such things so easily.

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

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

they’re worthless.”

Her expression briefly turned chillingly cold and dismissive before she pushed

him away and left for the bathroom without a word.

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

*

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

hair, clearly post-shower as well.

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

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

changed by Seth.

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

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

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

with a calm expression.

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

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

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

window.

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

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

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

“Right.”

“Good. I trust you.”

What other choice did she have?

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

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

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

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

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

Seth paused, then pulled her into his arms.

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

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

her through and through.

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

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

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

arms still tight around her.

Would she leave him?

How could she?

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

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

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

way to mend or fill it.

*

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

point to check in at the apartment in person.

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

and had woken up early.

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

the door for Charlie.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Charlie caught the keys deftly and immediately went downstairs.

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

room.

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

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

was a solo shot of Cicely.

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

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

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

hang them up.”

“Sure thing.”

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

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

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

remembering when.

Her tone suggested she was in a good mood.

“A bit to the right.”

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

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

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

bullets.

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

steady.

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

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

ought to have built some rapport.”

Charlie nearly leapt out the nearby window.

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

“Time to eat.”

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

left. There, that’s perfect.”

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

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

“Time for breakfast.”

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

After breakfast, Seth and Cicely left the apartment together.

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

to the office.

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

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

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

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

the affair that the matter finally settled.

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

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

had deliberately quashed the story.

Cicely didn’t dwell on it.

Once it was over, it was over.

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

caused.

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

it was best to let it go.

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

her.

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

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

evenings.

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

his work.

His efficiency visibly increased.

Yet, it was clear he was getting tired.

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

find reasons to be understanding and to feel for them.

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

accommodate them.

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

want to see him exhausted.

Thankfully, it was only for a week.

*

Cicely spent a day resting at home during the holiday.

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

trouble at the hospital again.]

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

leading to another emotional breakdown.

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

was all an act to garner attention.

It had worked for her before.

Danielle’s room was in disarray.

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

deliberate mess.

Cicely visited around noon, bringing lunch from home.

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

shifting to a feigned calm as she faced Cicely coldly.

“Here to gloat over me again?”

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

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

around?”

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

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

someday.”

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

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

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

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

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

your grand design.”

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

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

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

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

remember, Danielle, you still owe me.”

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

and arranged the lunch before Danielle.

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

smirk forming on her lips as she turned to Cicely.

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

me with kindness?”

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

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

use that term to describe me?”

Danielle’s face turned sour with malice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

anger and agitation.

know. Getting angry is bad for your

for life, Seth and I

Enter title…

then

am disabled for life, you’ll never be able

off.”d2

slightly as she looked at Danielle,

a faint smile. “How

if you wish for

neither will Seth. Even blood relatives fed

How important do you think you are

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

day out? Or rather,

someone disabled?”

violently as she glared at Cicely. Each word was

to her most vulnerable

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

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

you die, I will dig you up from your

get better soon, you might be

blame me for bullying

the neatly

icy, detached voice rang

I wouldn’t starve myself just

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

annoying.”

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

Cicely would win.

my appetite. Please, leave

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

she eats

“Understood.”

a

her again, turning towards the door to leave. But

could take two steps, the door swung open

paused, her expression darkening as the man who entered caught her

brought a surge of

from the restroom, rushed in, positioning himself

front of Cicely.

furrowed her brows

he opened the door. She reached out

Ray, feeling

his teeth clenched as he

mixed with rage.

don’t you think you’re misdirecting your anger?

the one who nearly took advantage of me that night

yet,

castrated you myself.”

words hit Ray

stammered, “Seth never

night?”

he say negate the fact that you

raped me?”

with a faint smile, she

Let’s put our grievances aside for now.

facts straight. It was

not anyone else’s doing. Ms. Danielle is the

and dependent. Let’s not make her situation any

to the exchange, could hardly believe

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

I know

a smile, “Then I must

cleared up, I’ll take

they left the hospital room. “Ray wasn’t involved in

so we can’t hold him accountable. He’s

by yesterday, but I didn’t let

bag in her hands until her knuckles turned

brought back the chaos of that night,

the fear, so vivid and terrifying that even the mere thought of it

shudder.

“Miss?”

blinked away the memories, “It seems Mr. Ray is quite

skeptical. A rich playboy, surrounded by a constant stream

suddenly proclaiming true feelings for one

now, it seemed genuine.

“Perhaps.”

“Not perhaps. With his family on the brink, he’s

clear she means a

was orchestrated by his family

frowned at

so much he’d nearly get her

*

by Danielle’s

guilt. “I’m sorry, I had

wasn’t in the mood to give Ray any more

her fork clumsily, she shoveled food into her

indifference.

it’s a dog-eat-dog world. Regardless of the tactics

looking up from her

now, and your family is on its last

chance for a comeback, but now, you guys

blown it for good.”

clenched so tight his knuckles were white, and

orchestrated the downfall of

told you not to be fooled by his act.

you can imagine. My dad said the

started his agency, he had his sights set on bringing

run by a guy who hasn’t graduated

make everyone relax their guard against him,

fatal blow. He played innocent but

wasn’t simply drunk. I’ve never

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

the receiving

She had

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

this “possible truth.”

“That’s impossible.” she whispered.

breath. “I know you wouldn’t believe it,

checked with the

road ahead. I came here today to

to ask you

up, her voice restrained and

of that car for him,

was it just a

finally turned to look at

a motive, my only desire

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

be so

would you still have

silence, Danielle set her fork down

answer are you hoping

his lips together. “You

“Then no, I wouldn’t.”

expect you to brush

I had died, what would be

slightly. “Whether true or not, that’s the answer I

have to play the villain in front of me to push me

I stop caring for you, it’s like denying

since I can’t, I need to

had never seen Ray this

was

was no telling what kind of madness

to.

*

of the elevator on the

standing across the

Tall, stoic, and brooding.

brow furrowed imperceptibly when he saw

for a moment then tightened.

smile on her face. “You’re

“You hate

Came to

silence, she glanced at him coolly. “I have

bullying a

not long after Cicely arrived at the hospital.

the side, instantly grasped what Seth was

to check on

thought it might

faltered for

around her neck, presenting only her profile to him,

the corners of her eyes and lips was

moods are volatile, and your presence might exacerbate them,

even leading to harm.”

looked up at him with a light smile. “I have

hurt me when I’m

expression darkened. “The sooner she recovers,

ties with her.”

know,” Cicely replied, hands tucked into the pockets

why I braved

overt anger, just a serene and gentle

more she displayed it, the clearer Seth

sarcasm and rebellion.

Seth reached out to

learned just a week

Cicely stepped aside, avoiding his touch. “Whether I have eaten

time to join me. And as it happens,

a meal

blunt

trusted me?” The question floated into

pause, he looked

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

in

*

Issac followed Cicely out.

“Where to next, miss?”

pondered for

visit Dad at the

“Alright.”

gates of the Ellis family estate, Cicely

at the sprawling manor, feeling an

The dark green pines stood tall but failed

vitality.

and

a bit. She got out of the car and

occasionally moving about in

be

the sound of her arrival, a look

us

glanced upstairs,

not too long ago and was reading in the study. Not sure

he’s fallen asleep.”

he

some buckwheat

turning to

step, “And what else?”

a couple of

deepened as she turned and headed straight for the

face, she ordered the servants to bring out what Creighton

the brownish buckwheat

salad of carrots and celery, the other a chilled

of ham and cheese.

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

you prepared for my father’s

too frightened to

“Sir has been preferring lighter

asked for these dishes. Even if we prepared more,

them. Elderly folks’ meals are

sir says there’s no need to cook so

doubt his words, but in her

table was always a feast of

Creighton slumped in

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

hit Cicely, and

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

corner

head over heels in love, insisting on living

alone in the

blamed herself deeply in her

covering him with a blanket before

out of the study.

woke from his nap

the servants, his face lit up

you tell me

got secrets to hide before

her. “You’re not

there be so many quarrels?”

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

my break, missing all the home-cooked meals.

for

nodded, “You’ll have to ask him. He listens to you more than he

to me.”

I’ll talk to

for the rest of

playfully demanding

amused and exasperated.

squared

in

is golden;

lively and bustling, and even the servants

entire Ellis family seemed to have returned to how

be.

Creighton inquired about

busy to make it back. Creighton frowned, giving

“Are you

“Just hope for us

Creighton relented.

sent Seth a message. [I’m at the Ellis estate,

coming home tonight.]

wasn’t about to create a dramatic runaway

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

anything amiss.

didn’t reply, and she didn’t wait up for

the

moved to assist Seth

your message imply

voice neutral, “No, it was just to let

know.”

there’s no reason for a

message as an invitation for us to stay here

could respond, he had pulled her into his

the living room.

closeness, smiled,

hard these past few

“Not yet.”

then, go ahead, I’ll have the staff whip

The dishes were all tailored to his

for dinner, but as she

inexplicable stares of her father and Seth

“Finished eating?”

“Not yet.”

in, “You two

came out to grab my water

coffee table,

to

Enter title…

anticipated her return to dine with him, and only when

up

family estate isn’t as cozy as

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

staying here for

of emotion crossed Seth’s brow as he methodically chewed

down

not explain

that you’ve explained it,

a sip, “I said

wasting time over the same person

his mouth with a napkin, “So you’re telling me you’ve

here just on a

reason, I have some. I’m on

short on time. In fact, on my way

saw my dad and changed my mind.

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

not fighting

impassive, her lips curled

part, coupled with her subtle expression,

on the question she had left

noon.

it? If not,

want to stay, stay. It’s

inconvenient here, that’s all.”

own home,

a sip from

his easy

if he disagreed today, it

came to understand why he mentioned inconvenience and

such an easy compromise.

Cicely’s father and grandfather

her what their conversation would be about—nothing

matters.

for

and notebooks with pens. Not that

but she liked doodling when

knocked, the servant opened it to find Charlie, shrouded

of frost, stepping inside. “Ms. Cicely,

him, “How heartless, sending

middle of the night no

Charlie chuckled awkwardly.

You can sit

I just have an errand. Mr. Seth asked

be on my way

turned around, and

to Charlie. Brody, seeing this, quickly directed

suitcase upstairs.

linger, bidding farewell and

brought up a glass of milk. After finishing her

upstairs.

could those men possibly have to talk about for so long without any

servant had refilled their

found some clothes and went to the bathroom where the

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

the tub and let out a sigh of

window was a view of the garden and

rotating ground lights. It

especially for her return.

boredom, she had asked her father to install the

at them had

of the bathtub, staring at that place for

of the tub, twisted a hot towel,

over her eyes.

essential oil dripped into the water,

move again. She drifted in

felt a sudden chill.

the water felt the coolness, and she instinctively slid down a

her eyes, her hand was caught midair, and she

looked up to see the man frowning at her

side of the tub.

be the first to drown in a

by the man who had appeared

room had

feel cold.

tried to shake off his grip, but

stood next to her and

frowned, “What are

missing a beat, dropping his clothes into the

one do in a bathroom?

beside the tub to cover

step out. Before she could leave, she was

to her chest and glared up

to do?”

woman in his

radiant than usual. He smirked, planting

voice that was low

“You should

without drowning.”

her quiet, gentle demeanor, always

he preferred her current bold,

demeanor.

he began to run his fingers through her wet hair.

hair

“No.”

of the shower

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

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

lacked principles, but that this man had

her anger before it

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

away by

awkward, her arms crossing in front

modesty she could.

lathered shampoo into her hair with

chest to rinse it clean with

head lowered and eyes closed, Cicely

merit. After all, there were more than a

for this

he applied conditioner to her hair, he nudged her toward

took a quick shower

expression, Cicely asked, “Charlie

planning to stay

any reason I

apartment, it’s quite a trek from here to the

You insist on staying here. I can’t exactly

will.”

of anger tinged

into a smile as he drew closer to

to spending

better.”

can’t sleep

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

contours of her body.

imperceptibly, and he reached out to pull her

warm water from the

to prevent water from flowing into them, Cicely’s

focused on his succinct and

pressing against her

had already set the showerhead aside, his

forehead against hers. “We should get out and

tightened, “Let go. I can dry it

going

closed

he moved with a familiarity that made it all too

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

than pain. “This

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

to keep it down

Cicely’s legs was wrapped around

she was

the hairdryer and slipping her into pajamas, Seth

away from him, her soft hair spreading across

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

to turn away, his long arm scooped her into his

he’d only persist if

too exhausted

*

The next day.

already gone. The patchy

with new ones

was considerate, gentle, and protective—or so he seemed. Any pain

he’d tend to it. Yet now, with her body covered

all too pleased.

freshening up and slipping into her

Still groggy and listless, she found Creighton

morning exercise and were already two chess

head

“You really should fix that habit of

the servant, sipped half of it, and slumped

“Sleeping in is the best

your health,

either. Breakfast is the most important meal. Why are you

didn’t you

irritation left Cicely speechless

the office. Why would I

duh! Perfect timing with your holiday.

the company instead of ending up clueless.

clear reluctance. “No,

why he didn’t mention

at

really

that she genuinely didn’t know, Creighton dropped the

with your grandfather to see Danielle. You

come?”

her legs onto the couch, resting her elbow on the

a blend of elegance and lazy

you’ll have lunch

they were already leaving her

name had come up several

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

was incredibly inappropriate and heartless. After

set to visit the hospital the next

scoffed silently. Anyone who dared say the Ellis family was harsh

would have a problem with

for dinner. His

while Cicely sat

before going up to her bedroom, where Seth was busy

desk.

word, she went to the bathroom, and upon entering,

After a quick shower, she emerged to find Seth

climbed into bed to

seemed like Seth had finished

the bed, walked over, brushed her

the lips.

for

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

you up to?”

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

rest tonight?”

what

are plenty of things we have

gently, “Then

her, Seth’s body pressed

penetrating with unrestrained

She lifted her hands and

soft whimper. It was only then

on her, just barely.

kiss me to

guard with their unintentional cuteness, and

to death? I wouldn’t dream of it.

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

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

inches from hers. A gentle smile tinged her

warrants a penalty

misunderstand me? Shouldn’t I consider how

face held the same amused expression, yet a chill seemed to seep

smile. “Go ahead. Punish me

tilted her head, calmly and seriously meeting his

I’m so

be trivial and painless.”

Enter title…

jawline,

the heart to give me

an eyebrow and ran her hand across his

brimming with tenderness.

“I couldn’t bear to.”d2

felt a subtle stir in his

gently caressing her smooth chin, “You like me that

moved from

ever heard, love and hate are

loves someone at the start, the more they might hate

warm and smiling eyes, but Cicely’s gaze

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

I doubt it will.

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

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

buttons that Cicely had undone;

unfastened the rest.

still early, so be good

then paused, “If you’re not obedient,

you up my way.”

desire to find out what his method of waking her might

from the shower, Cicely was

a video game. She glanced at him, then refocused on

game.

the phone

“Is there something you need

me at

swiped and

about business, what

do there?”

you wouldn’t need to tag along with

thing in

I have to

you think your dad asking you to learn more

on you

Cicely frowned, still resistant.

your life now or in the future, your

family forever. If one day, shareholders

of a weak moment and start

you won’t even know where to cry.

around you

“Does that include you?”

“Including me.”

Cicely fell silent.

mine, isn’t it

truly in your

makes you insecure? You think

Or maybe you want to

Turning to her, his gazes

sounds like you’re quite convinced you’ve

who leaves a

But beyond these two reasons, is

didn’t improve, and

their depths replaced by

be so quick to assume. In fact, instead of

why I

“I’ve downloaded some files to your

much as you can before sleep, and ask

understand tomorrow.”

app

with a blur of text. “What will you

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

I can’t stay by your

mood.”

watched him get up, grab a coat, and walk out. Her face looked

all too well; it wasn’t about reflection. The man

a tantrum.

＊

two hours. Approaching eleven at night,

looking worse than

the lights had dimmed, leaving only a

the phone in her arms,

reignited.

Heartless woman.

phone from her

she hadn’t closed.

for her before leaving. He then looked at

sleeping face

was in a rush to find her

phone and tossing it aside, he watched the

his face cold as he pulled

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

mumbling drowsily. “Done sulking?”

a moment, Seth wanted to wake her up, maybe keep her up all night.

she fell silent again, and any further

petty.

＊

he woke Cicely with a kiss that

cup of strong coffee. Even for

grumpiness, she

robbed of breath.

she kicked him hard a couple of times. “Are you

mind?!”

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

off to the

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

your face.” Seth’s voice carried

Cicely didn’t budge.

really gonna make me do this the hard

comforter off

but what strength could she

pillow

and the pillow barely registered upon

I’m not going

pillow, and placed it back on

up by the time I’m out, I’ll

want me to wake you up for the second time, then

back to sleep.”

frustration. As Seth turned away, the corners of his

a sly

covers aside and

squeezing toothpaste onto his

reflection in the mirror.

his eyebrows, he

Seth, as if on cue, applied toothpaste

their reflection. Seth nonchalantly placed the

aside.

started brushing. It was not like she needed his

as simple as toothpaste. The

smile of her

breakfast, they headed to the Ellis

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

to know anything.

what am I supposed to do at the office,

just smiled and

why he

desk and

immediate deployment.

documents are on the computer;

turned her face away, “Computers

anticipate this excuse, “There are printed copies

like no matter what

she moved to

pile of folders.

don’t understand, and we can go

you

a C&P

frowned, “You’re leaving me

in

reading; I’ll be

opened her mouth to retort but held back.

at her before leaving the

clear sign

stir

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

but

and her phone

the office, returning after another half-hour to

rummaged through the drawers, fiddled with

pen and doodled on a black leather

she played with her phone and then, noticing

and

Cicely sat there, the picture of a

student.

did you get

a bit challenging since it’s new to

three files in a whole morning

stung.

the fact that I’m even sitting here is a

noticing the black

her

a confident, flamboyant

her ‘artwork’ and flushed slightly, but quickly

nonchalance.

pursed his lips and took a deep breath, “Anything

“Yes.”

“Bring it here then.”

the documents away. Seth waited for

as if

bridge of his nose and sank into his chair.

Come over here.”

No complaints

files and approached him. Before she

arm pulled her into an embrace.

Cicely said, leaning

waist,

one taking

“What do you mean?”

“Back in the day, you’d concoct all

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

attitude. If that’s not taking liberties,

is?”

arched an eyebrow, “Respectful? That’s

it’s intentional, Mr.

but Seth had no comeback, “So

feel like harboring

current relationship, that would

Seth was momentarily speechless.

victorious, smiled, “What’s for

me, it’s to

her away and leaned back in his chair,

expression

Cicely watched him—

man was annoyed

by Charlie from a local diner, indeed

seemed to have no

“Aren’t you eating?”

by the

mood was as frosty as

office was suffused with the unmistakable vibe of ‘he’s upset,

a big deal’.

all this by myself?” she

with food, while he didn’t even bother

her way.

it. Nobody said you

her eyes and huffed, “Then

tonight.”

at her with an icy

the couch and picked up the elegantly

coolly, “Nobody said we have to sleep

until

face was stoic, “How long are you planning to

attitude with me?”

“Isn’t it you who’s been

want to keep butting heads

her silverware tightened before relaxing. “Just

to watch

and I’ll

Seth fell silent.

*

the Ellis Corporation

stayed in

slack off, but under Seth’s

with him summoning various department

progress reviews, the office atmosphere was tense

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

father, she couldn’t afford

end of the workday approached, Cicely found most of

the department leaders’ trembling, overly

word. She hadn’t made much progress

hadn’t commented on it.

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

in a while.”

should probably let my

I’ve

an acknowledgment and moved to the door to

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

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

deal with things as they come.

more. If not, best to steer clear. It wasn’t like it was a

Patty wasn’t her biggest

chill outside was biting, and naturally, Cicely wasn’t

She cozied up

around Seth’s.

offered them some tea and

Enter title…

and

Cicely. He took a sip of warm water

two minutes of silence, Seth broke the

fascinating about my face?”d2

always been told if she

with him always

he hadn’t even mentioned anything about

twirled a strand of her hair, her palm warming against the

overheard General Manager from

talking about this new mechanical equipment upgrade

knock the socks off the old models. We

family has the know-how and the development rights.

of bidding and choosing

the deal over to Diaz

family,

big fish like

project. Diaz International

deal with the Ellis family’s offer

the Ellis family picks Diaz International, the rest can

many would kill for that kind of opportunity.

you just chicken out when you

it

with the Ellis family?”

interim head of the Ellis Corporation, I can say that the

more fitting partners

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

Corporation to make things easier for

predictably, wasn’t surprised by his stance.

what counts. Why sweat the

pride for you, I’ll

a

“Too scared to take the big

running

swallow it up. That way, you wouldn’t

up. Hmm, that’s actually a pretty

it, the

eyes

silence, Cicely propped her chin

we actually go through with that? Assess the value

in the Ellis family? Or, you could hand

and I’ll cut you in on a slice of the

shares. How

“What’s all

in Diaz International?”

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

you besides your mother, it’s probably Diaz

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

sleeve that gives me an edge over you. But Diaz International?

might just be it.”

and unfathomable as

International. So what if I

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

to let

tightened, clearly displeased with her

Cicely just smiled thinly.

under the Ellis family banner

International ever do to tick you off?” The voice

a familiar tone that belonged to

glanced at her mug, then switched on

standing opposite her, her face a stormy mix

wariness.

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

Ellis family ain’t too shabby, right?

No need to keep

future is the future. You bite off only as

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

International.”

her eyes

Patty wasn’t

since Seth had already stood up, his expression far

go.”

Cicely, probably mindful of Seth’s

as if forcefully suppressing

the Diaz

with Patty might be the real way to make her

the night was

to the Ellis residence, Seth took

“Where are you

“Same as today.”

alone in the office

there, I’ll disturb

the car window,

her slender finger.

was silent for a few seconds

a half-smile, “Should

you?”

head, “No need, I’ve got my

Seth fell silent.

butler welcomed them respectfully.

they’ve been temporarily stored in the

now, I can bring them

shoes and said, “Well, bring

indeed many packages. Cicely sat cross-legged in

on a waterproof mat and started to slice open the

knife.

– mugs,

unpacked them but also studied them. Her demeanor

was many times more focused

when she read documents.

showered, he came down to

up; we’re

up and handed him a white

examined it—it had a notable heft, and engraved on it was a

her name beneath. Beside her was a matching

items were pairs, hers in

light.

think of

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

it feels

the small items, her tone

in the world. Seth didn’t

to get some

seeing the white tumbler in

contentedly.

the Ellis estate and setting the

Cicely’s focus was still scattered, but after

were much the

department heads yesterday.

the paperwork aside, paced the office, and then there

knock on the door.

arms laden with parcels. “Ms.

addressed to you.”

now, perked up at the sight, “Put them on the

Seth’s chair, she resumed her task with

office transformed. His

frame, a new pen holder, several stylographs,

couple of notebooks.

mirrored his, albeit

cushion

fresh bouquet of flowers had even appeared on the coffee table. He

question the wisdom of leaving her alone in

nothing out of the ordinary,

for lunch

much work did

raised three fingers, then hesitantly added a fourth,

keys on the computer, bringing

every bit of Cicely’s boredom—and

everything but work.

No surprise there.

and Cicely, unaware of its contents, only

upward. “I’m hungry,” she stated,

closed the video.

came closer, seeing a screen full of text. Seth looked at her, “Made

the whole morning

Cicely nodded, “Yes.”

on the desk, and he

a reward, I’ll take you out

the office for a

*

at the Ellis Corporation,

for

over several days, and even if Cicely

about company affairs, she couldn’t help

it was time for the company’s

a hectic affair.

International, and C&P were arranged

day, at the same

sky bridges. The topfloor ballrooms were split between the Ellis Corporation and Diaz

the south, the other

was just below Diaz

with the Ellis Corporation.

dressed in a silver-gray, fitted

knee. She wore a pair of

as others, she still stood out

of her birth, Cicely

clothes were simple in design, yet undeniably from the

The man by her side was distractingly handsome, a

look away.

her to the Diaz International gala to make the

expected pleasantries, to clink glasses and

before whisking her away to

gala was orchestrated

father present, the

Seth and Cicely’s arrival at the Ellis Corporation

toasts and well-wishes, almost like a bride

receiving blessings and drinks

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

downstairs? Aren’t we going?”

others are taking care of it,” Seth

chin in her hand, Cicely teased with

are a lot of

glanced at her coolly, “And

curious to

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

have considered it.”

just want to admire the pretty

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

personal viewing.”

serious about skipping the C&P

a low profile there, and even more so in the

C&P, after its grand slam start and the valuable

was the envy of many. Naturally, the number of

to Seth

Seth was not a patient man, unwilling to waste time on those trying

ingratiate themselves with him.

was a magnet for journalists, both

event was deliberate, with plenty of reasons

not long after, Charlie hurriedly arrived, lowering his

got drunk at the C&P gala and

commotion over

and his demeanor darkened. As he

his wrist,

put, I’ll be back soon,” he

before following Charlie out.

watched him until he was out of sight,

was slouched on

nearly finished bottle of hard

a sneer,

feet and

he slurred, emphasizing each syllable with a bitterness

with venom. “You’re impressive,

flashing a thumbs-up

you play hardball. I’ve seen just how

writes history, that I

never provoked you; we were just in

coveted what the we had,

hadn’t anticipated such drama on the eve

hung in the air, the

tactics, about how Ray’s family

Ray had once made

had

against Ray .

that it had been a premeditated strike. Now,

to

are still a shareholder in your family

this place

surrendered their shares when Ray’s

waking from a hospital stay,

ten percent.

“Rest assured, I know this isn’t

International event. I can’t do anything at

the last of what I have, and I can’t tarnish

company, so tell

and ruined Diaz International, let you taste the bitterness

today?”

with icy detachment,

what makes you think you can

the last shred of

stupor in

he might lunge at Seth in a

vengeful fury.

onto the table next to

shattered, sending sharp shards scattering across the

the breaking glass pierced through

to skip a

high heels a clumsy match for her

the jagged remains of the bottle

and she let out a

forward, pulling Seth’s arm

circle to avoid

to Seth, her

red blood fell onto Seth’s hand, and the woman

in his arms seemed about to fall out of his

moment.

collective gasp reverberated throughout the

felt a surge

on his

and his face, usually cool

seething with a murderous

glared at Ray.

Cicely’s arm and

she gripped his clothes tightly,

managed to say,

tall.

gaze softened as it landed on her

resounding slap, Cicely slapped him. Stunned, he

Have you had too much to drink,

provoking him will do you now? What

you?!”

though her voice carried anger, it

clear tremble.

seemed to stem from the physical reaction to her pain. But

up in her eyes made it

fear, anger, or

constricting pain gripped his heart

a clear cut on

else

and tears fell

restlessness swirled within Seth. He

voice,

ounce of self-control seemed to

indignation, fear—all converged and broke down silently,

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

in her last desperate lunge to save

at her high heels and, with a

his arms.

been tackled to the

with a knee on his back,

been right beside Seth and was quick to react when Ray

Cicely’s panicked cry had caused him a moment’s

bottle had swung

he acted swiftly, Cicely had been

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

shout at Seth’s retreating

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

done!”

falter

*

hearing of Cicely’s injuries, Erik and Creighton rushed to the hospital

frenzy.

ankle and a two-centimeter laceration on her

but not too

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

Cicely’s eyes were red and swollen from

Creighton, she greeted

“Dad.”

and returned to

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

their concern

couldn’t mask his concern, which he channeled into anger

never known a day of hardship in her life,

the new year,

not his fault. I

and followed

shot her a glare. “Am I not allowed

Enter title…

hurts now, and it’ll still hurt

the pain

himself off mid-sentence.

words were stuffed back down his

could he not see

Cicely, her hair somewhat disheveled

moment at the gala when she had unexpectedly

shield him

Totally unexpected.

shock and anger now took on a new

process these swirling emotions, the

Seth listened intently to the doctor, then stepped

saw Cicely with red eyes and pursed

lifted her arms and wrapped them

passed under her knees,

brought a slight sense of peace

watching.

and Seth back to the

needed care, and returning to the Ellis residence was the

all, she had never

rare holiday after the gala, Seth stayed at the

Cicely company.

washing up –

never leaving her side. Apart from

impeccable

silent, complaint-free actions were

to the bed

waiting.

despite the doctor’s caution,

slight shift in pressure and Cicely would wince. This was

heavy silence from the man beside her, who seemed to

tense

the Ellis residence, any sitting with Creighton

turned to business

alone and bored in her

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

most

the mechanical manufacturing issues of

family.

deal which should have been

to

if Diaz International was

as it had

Creighton didn’t dwell on

on to other matters.

in company affairs, she found comfort in

to Seth’s voice and being able

before the new

who had been injured

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

on previous

a lavish dinner for

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

to bring Cicely back to the

was surprised, as Patty’s mood

but since they were legally married, spending

most appropriate and normal

moment, glanced at the young couple, and

somewhat absent-mindedly.

reaction, suddenly felt a deep

not at home, the vastness of the

to spend a few days, the New

festive gatherings, would leave him

*

morning of the New Yearr’s Eve, Seth took

residence.

with them to pick up Danielle

leaving Danielle alone in the

negotiating with the doctor, they finally

to bring

comment. However, the image

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

up, serving as

of Danielle’s haughty, perpetually stern

feel that it might

been bustling since yesterday,

home for the

a sumptuous feast knowing Miss

Creighton didn’t find anyone at the hospital. And Cicely, arriving

who should have been picked

face immediately

with Danielle. When she saw Seth

her expression paused for a moment, but then she

smiling.

in her wheelchair, also had a

two. A shadow crossed her face, but she brushed

The way she said that made it sound

Seth asked, ignoring her question

couch. His voice was as flat as the

storm.

lip, hands clasped tightly, not saying a

her all

holidays, could we?”

a surge of anger rising in her chest, but

not to let her

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

family.

gaze landed on Danielle. “Patty is being

ashamed?”

even more mortified

moment.

The atmosphere suddenly stiffened.

barely able to contain her fury. “The guest I invite is the

be here. Danielle got herself injured saving Seth’s

wrong with inviting

taking care of her every

sneer. “By that logic, any woman who

and play the

family’s dinners

pale with anger, and she whirled to glare

“This is the Ellis

for a mother figure that you have

her?”

furrowed her brows. “Patty, don’t

you who’s

“You…”

deep voice cut

gaze, which had been light and smiling, settled

quietly

brought you here to celebrate, not to

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