The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride
Chapter 2041-2050
Before he returned, Seth had found Cicely’s words in the car utterly baseless
and irrational.
What had he said to her? He told her not to be too greedy, and not to be so
fussy. He accused her of sentencing him to death without cause, of making a
fuss over nothing.
When she said she could forgive him even if he fooled her just once, he told her
she was living a lie, and it was meaningless.
What else did he say? He mentioned he needed to think about whether he really
liked Danielle and that maybe he could give it a shot with her.
Enter title…
The memory of Cicely standing at the car door with that panicked and helpless
look in her eyes resurfaced in his mind. A bitter taste suddenly rose in his throat,
and as Issac clasped his collar tightly, Seth’s hands clenched into whiteknuckled fists at his sides.
She had given him so many chances, even waited for him to deceive her.d2
Seeing Seth’s stricken expression, Issac, regardless of his own raging anger,
realized he had to step out of their world. Issac let go, stepped back,
straightened his clothes, and left the bedroom.
The room fell silent.
Seth gazed at her for a long moment before slowly approaching her. “Why didn’t
you say anything?”
Cicely looked sideways at the slight gap left by the closet door not being
properly shut. “I guess I felt it would be too dramatic to say it out loud. Besides,
what’s done is done. Speaking about it won’t change anything. Why humiliate
myself further?” She threw his earlier words back at him.
“I’m sorry.”
A flicker passed through Cicely’s eyes as she slowly turned to meet his gaze.
“The last thing I wanted to hear was an apology because I really don’t want to
tell you it’s okay. It’s all so trivial, confirming indeed that you messed up, and it
doesn’t undo what’s happened.”
Seth watched her silently, as if waiting for her to vent all the pent-up resentment
in her heart.
Cicely took a deep breath, closed her eyes, and when she opened them again,
she looked at him with a faint laugh, “Am I being unreasonably stubborn again?
Are you always right, and everything I say is just adding to my mistakes?”
As she spoke, she glanced casually at the digital clock on the table, then
lowered her eyes, concealing the turmoil behind them, and spoke indifferently.
“I’m going downstairs to join Grandpa and Dad for New Year’s Eve.”
Seth stepped forward, “I’ll carry you down.”
Cicely turned her head away, her posture as she sat waiting for him to carry her
was notably stiff and unwelcoming.
Seth bent down, his long arm sweeping under the bend of her legs, his voice
low and dim as he spoke. “I didn’t go to the hospital.”
Cicely wrapped her arms around his neck to avoid falling. She didn’t respond.
Seth lifted her up and headed for the door, continuing, “Because I seriously
violated traffic laws.”
A sardonic smile played on Cicely’s lips. She had seen it all before.
“U-turning on the overpass, driving the wrong way, crossing the median. I got
detained, and had to pay a 200 dollar fine.”
Cicely’s brows twitched, and she looked up at him. “What are you trying to say?”
“Nothing much, just I deserved paying my fine for leaving you there.”
Cicely pulled a wry smile, “Don’t shift the blame to me. I’m not the one who
made you lose points or pay a fine.”
Seth cast a glance down at her, stopping by the stairwell wall to carefully set her
down.
Cicely frowned, looking at him with her injured foot raised. “Do you think now
that Issac is gone, you’re the only option I have to get downstairs?”
Seth grasped her waist and leaned in close, his back slightly bending to meet
her forehead, his voice carrying a hint of hurt as he reiterated, “I didn’t go to the
hospital.”
Cicely’s eyelids flickered slightly. She was once again struck by how deviously
manipulative this man could be. He was actually playing the victim and acting
hurt, and she was amazed he had it in him.
“Not going to the hospital is a regret? I never stopped you from the beginning,
so there’s no need to feel hurt with me, and you won’t gain anything.”
Seth’s grip tightened slightly, his voice deep and husky, “Do you really have to
play dumb with me?”
Cicely’s frown deepened, “While wasting time with me here, aren’t you afraid
Danielle might actually drop dead in the hospital without seeing you?”
Anger began to cloud Seth’s eyes, his emotions turning murky. “You don’t have
to say such nasty things.” His breath lowered, “That was not very wise to make
you into someone you are not because of her.”
Cicely chuckled lightly, “Perhaps the truth is harsh. What’s the point of living a
lie?”
Seth’s eyes darkened further, a flash of sharpness passing through, quickly
suppressed. “I shouldn’t have said those things in the car. I didn’t go to the
hospital, I never considered liking her, and I wasn’t really planning to try with
her. Stop using those words against me, okay? They were wrong. It’s my
mistake.”
His current attitude gave Cicely an illusion, that to continue arguing with him
seemed pointless. It made her feel even more like a petty, vindictive shrew.
But if he admitted he was wrong, did that mean the pain those words caused
could be completely erased?
She closed her eyes, pushing down the sadness in her heart.
Her slightly pursed lips were seized by his cool ones, gently probbing, “The
countdown is about to start. Even if you don’t forgive me, can we leave this
behind? Let’s welcome the new year together, okay?”
Leaving this in the past year and starting anew the next?
Cicely was carried downstairs by Seth, and both Erik and Creighton looked a bit
weary. It wasn’t common for people their age to stay up for New Year’s Eve, so it
must have been tough for them to hold out until now.
However, seeing Cicely seemed to invigorate them. “Let’s hurry, the countdown
is about to begin. Let’s go outside for the fireworks.”
The TV show was also gearing up for the New Year’s countdown.
Seth wrapped Cicely in a blanket and a warm down coat before carrying her
outside.
In the yard, Brody and a few men had already set up the fireworks, ready to be
ignited at the right moment.
The TV in the living room was turned up to the loudest volume, the thrilling voice
counting down second by second.
“Ten, nine, eight…”
“Five, four, three, two, one! Happy New Year!”
The final second ticked by, and the fireworks in the backyard ignited, shooting
into the sky with a cacophony of whistles and pops. They exploded in a dazzling
array of colors, painting the night with their brilliance.
Amidst the festive clamor, Cicely thought she heard Seth’s voice near her ear.
She paused, turning to look at him with a puzzled expression, “What did you just
say?”
Seth looked down at her, his dark eyes reflecting the colorful lights from the
distant fireworks.
A faint smile played on his lips, and the icy look in his eyes seemed to melt
away as he gazed intensely at her, then leaned down to gently peck her lips.
“Happy New Year.”
Cicely’s eyes flickered with a hint of subtle disappointment, but it was fleeting.
She looked back up at the sky and replied softly—
“Happy New Year.”
*
Happy New Year.
There was the new year, but joy seemed absent.
Cicely’s winter break was marred by a foot injury that set her back over twenty
days.
Even so, even after a spat they had on New Year’s Day, Seth, upon returning to
work from his holiday, still bombarded her with a flurry of company emails. He’s
determined as ever.
Bored at home, Cicely read a couple out of the ten emails and then spent her
time tucked in a corner of the living room, piecing together a castle from a set of
building blocks she’d bought.
Seth came home several times to check on her progress, and finding it wanting,
he went straight to Creighton with his complaints.
Creighton could hardly contain his bemusement as he pointed at her, and from
then on, he took it upon himself to supervise her. Even as she sat in the corner
building her castle, Creighton would drill her on the company’s history, the
famous projects they’d pushed forward, their progress, outcomes, and the
comprehensive reasons behind their inception.
Cicely’s head spun with the daily analysis. She chewed Seth out in her mind
while stacking blocks—a grown man, tattling, of all things.
Danielle’s condition was not dire. The checkup revealed minor issues but
nothing significantly worrisome, only a slight delay in her recovery.
Seth still visited her occasionally, accompanying her to the hospital when it was
time for her bandages to be changed. He even went so far as to bring in a
renowned rehabilitation specialist from abroad. The Ellis family also extended
their utmost support.
Whether Danielle was spurred by some unseen motivation, her cooperation with
the therapy was surprisingly zealous, and her recovery progressed remarkably.
After New Year’s Eve, Cicely stopped bringing up Danielle. It didn’t matter if
Seth visited the hospital, arranged for experts for Danielle, or ensured someone
was always there to watch over her. Sometimes, Seth wondered if he was
uncomfortable with a life too tranquil.
Cicely fought with him over Danielle, and he was dissatisfied. Now that she no
longer made a fuss, he was still displeased.
He felt Cicely did not really care about what he did. It’s like as long as he was
there in the end, she could tolerate anything he did. He did not like this feeling.
Once Cicely’s foot was nearly healed, Seth brought her back to his side. He
personally drove her to the office, ensuring she stayed within his sight, whether
she was playing or dozing off from boredom.
He had even set up a desk for her in his office at Diaz International, right next to
his own. Her desk was smaller, a bit shorter than his, and whenever he brought
her there, her petite figure seated beside him exuded an air of endearing
obedience that he found quite pleasing.
Aside from work, she took an interest in almost anything. Her desk soon
became cluttered with little trinkets, including some on his desk—everything she
deemed unsightly was replaced with items she favored. He let her be.
The progress on their wedding home was on track for completion in two months.
Wedding planners had begun to consult with Cicely on the details, and she
spent her days in front of the computer in discussion. Every now and then, she
sought Seth’s opinion, which he occasionally provided with superficial
consideration. Eventually, Cicely found his advice lacking and stopped asking.
The venue was set in P City’s largest church, a testament to the Ellis family’s
penchant for indulging their loved ones. The church was funded and built by the
Ellis family over a decade ago, as a gesture of goodwill and safety for their
daughter who had married abroad.
The hotel was the most luxurious one in P City.
Just the selection of these two sites had made Cicely’s wedding preparations
the talk of the town, with everyone eagerly anticipating the event.
Cicely had become quite the busy bee, taking on some of the Ellis Group’s less
crucial matters since Seth had oddly entrusted her with them.
Though reluctant, she had picked up a few things, and she was getting to know
the company’s leadership quite well.
But life in the Ellis Group always came with its share of troubles, so she
preferred spending her time at Diaz International. Lounging idly there was
easier, as there was no need for her to get involved in company affairs.
Seth never hid anything from her. So, when she overheard Seth mentioning a
software project that had been in preparation since last year, requiring a
substantial investment and loan arrangements with the bank, curiosity got the
better of her. “What kind of software development requires such a huge sum?
What field is it in, and are you confident about it?”
Seth replied coolly, “Sixty percent confident.”
Developing the software was one thing, and market adaptability was another. If
it couldn’t seamlessly integrate into the market, failure was the only path that
awaited him.
Cicely frowned, clearly puzzled. “The Ellis Group has been dragging on that
mechanical construction project until now, and you know my dad has been
holding onto it for you. You pass up a project that’s practically handing money to
you to chase a new development you’re not entirely sure of. Two years of
preparation, and you’re only sixty percent confident now.”
“You want to prove yourself, to claim your dignity, not to play second fiddle to the
Ellis family. C&P has already succeeded, and now you’re the one calling the
shots at the Ellis Group , with notable results. Now who would dare to speak ill
of you? People are falling over themselves to get in with the Ellis Group . So
why does it seem like you’re the only one running in the opposite direction?”
Seth’s face was stern, his voice low and serious, “I’m not avoiding the Ellis
family. This project was something I intended to pursue from the start,
regardless of whether the Ellis family extended an olive branch or not.”
Cicely took a deep breath, “But what if it fails? What will become of Diaz
International? Seth, why not let Diaz International take shelter under the Ellis
Group’s wing? They can invest in your development project.”
Seth pinched the bridge of his nose, clearly irritated by Cicely’s suggestion, “I
don’t need it. If I truly fail, then the Ellis Group can consider taking over Diaz
International without any resistance.” To acquire a shell of a company would be
a piece of cake, wouldn’t it?
“Even if the Ellis Group did take over Diaz International, it would be for the good
of Diaz International.”
Seth inhaled deeply, “Let’s not talk about this anymore. Aren’t you busy planning
a wedding? That should be more important to you right now.”Cicely watched as Diaz International began to buzz with activity. The newly
established Engineering Department was already in full swing with a senior
engineer at the helm. It was apparent that Seth had been planning for this
moment for years, with a team ready to hit the ground running.
She knew that the best way she could support him was to stand back and let
him take the reins, even though she wished she could do more to help.
Opportunities for her to get involved were just scarce.
On a quiet afternoon, Cicely took a stroll through the Engineering Department,
where the team—dressed in their plaid shirts and casual blazers—worked
diligently. They were the epitome of understated brilliance, their fingers dancing
Enter title…
across keyboards as screens filled with cryptic code that Cicely couldn’t begin to
decipher.
Her impending marriage to the head honcho of Diaz International was no secret
in P City, so her presence in the department went largely unremarked. The
place was abuzz with rumors of her being a pampered lady, hardly a tech wiz,
making the complex code on screen all the more alien to her.
The department manager, Camden, a tall and lean man sporting a slick suit and
a confident air, made sure to greet her with a touch of charm. His humor and wit
were a breath of fresh air in the otherwise grave environment, making him the
darling of the coding engineers.
“Ms. Cicely, here for an inspection, are we?” Camden quipped with a grin, as
Cicely casually scanned the rows of computers, humming thoughtfully.d2
“Do you have any instructions for us, Ms. Cicely?” Camden asked, following her
gaze to the screens full of incomprehensible code.
Cicely glanced at him and then at a nearby workstation. “How are other people,
like me, supposed to make sense of all this code?” she inquired.
With a knowing smile, Camden nodded to the engineer at the desk, “Show our
future Mrs. Diaz what we can do.”
The engineer swiftly switched screens and within moments, following a flurry of
keystrokes and one final resounding press of the Enter key, a simple animation
graced the monitor. A white kitten, lollipop in paw, bounced across the screen
under the twinkling words “Wishing Mr. Diaz and Mrs. Diaz a lifetime of
happiness.” The animation was simple, but the speed with which it was created
impressed Cicely
“The code may be difficult to understand, but the result is clear enough,”
Camden remarked with a smile.
Cicely nodded, genuinely impressed. “You guys really are quite something.”
“Thank you for the compliment, ma’am.” Camden replied.
After Cicely left the department, she immediately started Googling introductory
courses in engineering.
Later, Seth returned from a meeting to find Cicely squinting at her computer
screen with such intensity, he teased, “Planning on going blind?”
Cicely shot him a sidelong glance and continued her focus on the screen.
“Meeting over, huh?” she replied nonchalantly, eliciting a frown from Seth who
took a glimpse at her screen and saw the C programming language. “Why are
you looking at this?” he asked, puzzled.
Cicely replied with newfound interest, “It’s fascinating. I visited the Engineering
Department today, and they whipped up an animation for me in minutes. It
seemed magical.”
Seth chuckled, “You won’t get it. You might as well give up.”
Cicely glared at him but didn’t persist, although she wasn’t ready to give up just
yet. A few days of learning and the novelty could wear off, but she wasn’t about
to guarantee anything to Seth.
To Seth’s surprise, Cicely’s persistence outlasted his expectations. For a week
straight, she devoted herself to mastering C programming language, bringing
her books to the office and frequently visiting the Engineering Department. She
was scarcely seen except for lunch and at the end of the day.
Her casual approach to college, where she was known as the little princess of P
City, seemed to work in her favor as no one expected her to fail. The campus
had become more of a hobby, with occasional visits to maintain appearances.
During one of those visits, Joel struck up a conversation about coding, and
Cicely, now with a bit of coding knowledge and confidence, admitted she was
studying it too. Joel invited her to join a club at school run by a senior who was a
programming whiz.
[Does he have the patience for it?] she typed back to him, aware of the slight
irritation she had been causing at the Engineering Department.
[Of course, and you’ve got me, right?] Joel assured her.
[Fine, I’ll check it out tomorrow,] Cicely agreed with a sigh.
…
The next day, Camden and a few engineers couldn’t help but suppress their
excitement when they realized Cicely wasn’t accompanying Seth to work.
Camden cautiously asked Seth about her whereabouts.
“She’s at school,” Seth replied casually, and Camden’s mood lifted slightly.
Perhaps having Mrs. Diaz around wasn’t so bad after all—it meant no overtime
work for them.
Without hesitation, Cicely joined the club Joel had mentioned. It turned out Joel
had learned more than she had, and he patiently tutored her through the basics.
Before the after-school club wrapped up, Joel casually handed Cicely a USB
drive, given her noticeable dedication to studying these past few days, he
couldn’t resist asking:
“Why are you suddenly interested in coding?”
Cicely toyed with the drive in her hand, replying nonchalantly, “Just seems cool
and interesting. Seth’s working on a new project, and I figured I might be able to
help him out if I learn a bit.”
Joel’s eyes darkened slightly, then he let out a resigned sigh, “Since it’s software
development, it’s probably all advanced code. We’re talking a good three to five
years before we’re at that level.”
Cicely didn’t seem bothered, “Knowing a little is better than nothing. At least I’ll
understand what they’re talking about.”
After thinking for a moment, Joel nodded in agreement.
Suddenly, Cicely lifted the USB drive, “What’s this for?”
Joel then remembered, “Well, that’s got a program I developed with a friend.”
Cicely uttered an acknowledgement, about to plug the drive into a computer,
“Let’s see what it’s about.”
Joel quickly restrained her wrist, “Wait a second.”
“What’s up?”
Joel explained, “It’s a blank drive. The program code is embedded within. It’s a
virus. You can’t see it.”
Cicely’s mouth hung open in surprise, “A virus? So what happens when you
plug it into a computer? Does it just die?”
He nodded and then shook his head, “The drive has a huge capacity. Once you
plug it in, it’ll automatically back up all the stored files on the computer at
lightning speed. Once it’s done copying, the computer will crash.”
Cicely looked repulsed, “Then how do you use it? Even if you copy the files,
what will hold them for extraction?”
This seemed to be Joel’s pride and joy. The usually modest and polite boy now
displayed an unmistakable air of satisfaction. “The ‘virus’ will only spread to one
computer. On the second machine, it acts like a normal USB drive, but the files
are hidden and need to be cracked to show up.”
Cicely found this intriguing, “Is this to prevent corporate espionage?”
“That’s the idea if you have a specific target.”
Cicely shook her head, “Sounds complicated. Where’s the decryption code?”
Joel shook his head, “Still working on it. It needs time.”
“So why give it to me? It’s useless to me right now.”
“I wanted you to have a piece of my achievement, as a keepsake.”
Cicely raised an eyebrow and slipped the drive into her bag. “Make sure to send
me the cracked version when it’s ready.”
“Of course.”
*
Dusk had settled. The two chatted as they made their way toward the school
gates. “Did you arrange a ride? I can drive you home if not.”
“No, it’s fine. Seth said he’d pick me up.” Cicely hadn’t finished her sentence
when someone bumped into her shoulder, causing her bag to fall and her to
stagger, but Joel quickly steadied her.
“Sorry.” The person mumbled an apology. Cicely wasn’t one to hold a grudge,
but before she could regain her balance, Joel stepped in front of her,
protectively moving her behind him.
Cicely, puzzled, peeked around and saw Ray, whom she hadn’t seen in a while.
Ray seemed to recognize them too. His gaze lingered on Cicely before he let
out a sardonic laugh, “Ms. Cicely, aside from everything else,
there is something destined between us, right?”
Ray looked haggard, the once polished young guy now appeared disheveled.
His long hair was carelessly styled, and his chin sported a patch of stubble. His
clothes were wrinkled. It was clear he was trying to maintain his image, but the
effort only made his disarray more evident.
Although Cicely was almost raped by him, given the whole story and what lay
behind it, she actually felt Ray had been dealt a raw deal.
With his penis ruined and hiss family fortune lost, Ray’s current state evoked a
twinge of pity from Cicely.
“Mr. Ray, I assume there’s nothing else?” Joel interrupted, wary of Ray’s attempt
to converse with Cicely.
Ray’s laugh held a hint of scorn, “No. The Ellis family’s darling is loved by all, I
hear. You’re getting married in a month, I guess congratulations are in order.”
Without waiting for a response, he turned and walked towards the school
entrance.
As they watched Ray disappear into the distance, Joel finally relaxed, turning to
Cicely. “You okay?”
“I’m fine. You had me covered.”
Joel bent down to pick up her bag, dusted it off, and handed it back to her. “Talk
about bad luck, I thought you wouldn’t see him at school. And yet, here we are,
running into him on the last day.”
Cicely took her bag, her voice tinged with confusion, “Last day?”
“Ray came to school today to drop out. With everything that happened at home,
and it’s probably best he leaves, given how he’d be treated here.”
Joel left the sentence hanging, but Cicely understood what he meant. “I see,”
she responded flatly, “I guess that makes sense.”
“Now his family is just him, and those who used to flock around are now
avoiding him. I heard he sold off his properties a few days ago, not sure what he
plans to do.”
Cicely paused, “Sold them?”
“Yeah.” Joel nodded, “There are plenty of rich kids around here; a few bought
from him. If he’s planning to use that money to make a comeback, that’s great.
But there’s the fear he might do something drastic. I heard he had a serious
clash with Seth not too long ago. You might want to warn him to be careful.”
Cicely’s expression grew somber.
At the school gate, a familiar luxury car with its hazard lights flashing was
waiting. The understated, yet imposing black sedan was boldly parked right at
the entrance. Clusters of students leaving the school cast curious glances its
way.
Cicely recognized the car immediately. She stopped and turned to bid Joel
farewell. The silent vehicle suddenly sprang to life as Seth emerged, dressed
sharply in a suit, his demeanor austere, drawing murmurs from the onlookers.
Nobody could mistake him. In the hallowed halls of the prestigious academy, it
was rare to find a young prodigy who, even before donning their graduation cap,
had already carved out a substantial niche in the elite echelons of the business
world. He was a legend whispered about in the corridors and classrooms, his
name synonymous with success and mystery.
His visits to campus were infrequent, his presence more myth than man to most
of the students. Thus, when he did appear, it was as if a celebrity had walked
among them, causing a stir of excitement and awe.
Cicely was mid-farewell with Joel when a sudden chorus of animated whispers
erupted around her. A gaggle of girls huddled by the nearby school monument,
their excitement bubbling over as they bounced in place, their voices a mix of
disbelief and delight.
Was all this fanfare really necessary?
She turned slightly, casting her gaze back to Seth. Well, perhaps the fuss was
justified.
Just right now, his expression was less than pleasant. His brows were furrowed
in a frown, his stance aloof, as if the weight of his glare could be felt from a
distance, cold and as deep as an abyss.
Cicely belatedly pieced together the puzzle. Right, that man had a minor clash
with Joel before.
Joel had been kind enough to part with friendly advice, cautioning her to warn
Seth to beware of a certain Ray. Comparing their temperaments, Seth’s current
demeanor seemed rather off-putting.
“Alright, I should head back. Take care on your way,” Cicely said, choosing not
to provoke him further despite her lack of enthusiasm for his attitude.
Joel replied with a smile, nodding. “You too, and remember, if you run into any
trouble, just give me a shout. I’m here for you.”
“Will do.”
They exchanged smiles and waved goodbye, but Seth’s expression only soured
further.
It wasn’t until Cicely approached him, seeing the stern cast of his face up close,
that she felt a mix of irritation and amusement bubble up. “Who got under your
skin?” she asked, a teasing lilt in her voice.Seth shot Cicely a frosty glance, “How come you’re hanging out with him?”
Cicely replied as if it was the most natural thing in the world, “We’re in the same
class and part of the same club. Isn’t it pretty normal for us to hang out?”
Seth turned and opened the passenger door. As Cicely bent to get in, Seth
grabbed her arm. “What club are you talking about?”
“Uh, the coding and programming club.”
Seth narrowed his dark eyes, “Still can’t shake off this hobby, huh? It’s been
quite a while. How come the enthusiasm hasn’t faded?”
Enter title…
Cicely smiled, her eyes curving, “I’m surprised myself that I’ve stuck with it for so
long. Who knows? In a few years, you might be offering me a high salary to
work for you. Let go. You’re hurting me.”d2
Seth released her arm with a snort and a chuckle, “I bet you haven’t written that
many lines of code. If a corporate spy got their hands on you for a little
interrogation, I doubt it would take two minutes before you’d spill all my secrets.”
The smile vanished from Cicely’s eyes. Glaring at Seth, she retorted,
“Underestimate me? I could last five minutes, at least.”
“Heh,” he couldn’t help but laugh softly, his lips curling. “Get in the car.”
Cicely huffed and slid into the seat.
As soon as the car started, Cicely began to recount her recent run-in with Ray.
Seth hit the brakes, glanced at her, then eased off again.
“I’m fine. Joel was there too, didn’t even get a chance to exchange words with
him.”
Seth’s lips tightened slightly.
“Ray was at school today to drop out. I heard he’s sold off several of his
properties, too. Joel’s worried he might do something drastic again, especially
towards you…”
“Can’t you speak without bringing up Joel?” Seth’s voice was heavy with
displeasure, cutting her off mid-sentence.
Cicely paused, “Of course, that’s what I think too.”
The car sped up, taking Cicely straight to her apartment.
*
With just a month until the wedding, July was shaping up to be the happiest
month of Cicely’s life. Her birthday, her marriage anniversary, and her wedding
day were all coming up.
Her wedding dress had been custom-made by a designer Seth had flown in
from France a couple of months ago. It was due to arrive any day now. The
jewelry was specially ordered by Creighton from Belgium.
The wedding home was finished, decorated under Cicely’s meticulous
supervision, with every detail personally designed and arranged by her. After all,
it was where she and Seth would spend their lives together.
Some custom furniture was still due to arrive, but that too would be sorted out in
the next couple of days. Seth was so worried about her overdoing it, and he had
carried her back from the wedding house several times.
He had scolded her in various ways. She had pleaded for mercy, and Seth had
believed her, for a while. But she would dare to do it again next time.
The last time was just the day before when she received a call from the
renovation company saying that the custom furniture had arrived and needed
her direction for placement. She was about to leave when Seth pressed her to
the bed, leaving her weak and unable to get up until the next day.
After the Seth’s threats in bed, she was scared out of her wits, swearing she
wouldn’t dare again. Now, recalling their shameless romp, she didn’t even have
the courage to face people outside. Cicely chewed Seth out a countless number
of times alone in her room for being a brute.
Seth had Charlie take over the finishing touches on the renovation.
The third day before noon, Seth called Cicely to Diaz International.
Desperate to get out, Cicely got ready as quickly as she could, digging out
summer clothes that would cover her up as much as possible.
Black slim pants, and a white ruffled silk blouse – she was wrapped up tight.
Just stepping out of the car downstairs, Seth’s call came through. “Where are
you?”
“Downstairs at the company.”
“Wait there, I’ll come down and take you to lunch.”
“Okay.”
Seth raised an eyebrow at Cicely’s outfit today. He’d never seen her dressed like
this before. She looked like a delicate girl who somehow managed to pull off the
look of a professional woman.
“Aren’t you hot?” he quipped, noting her long sleeves and pants, which seemed
out of place in the summer heat.
Cicely shot him a glance, “Whose fault is that?”
Seth caught on instantly and chuckled lowly, wrapping his arm around her waist
as they left the building.
The lunch venue showed he had put in some effort, and the food was decent.
“You didn’t call me out just because you found this nice restaurant, did you?”
“No. I’ve got a surprise for you this afternoon.”
Cicely raised an eyebrow, asking a somewhat silly question, “What kind of
surprise?”
Seth just looked at her, saying nothing.
Cicely didn’t press further. A surprise wouldn’t be a surprise if it was revealed
ahead of time.
After lunch, Cicely leisurely savored her cake, taking in the tastefully decorated
restaurant. She was quite pleased until she noticed Seth checking his watch for
the third time, deflating her mood. “Do you have urgent work?”
Looking up at her, Seth’s gaze was calm and serious, “She’s being discharged
from the hospital today.”
Cicely paused, remembering her father mentioning this the day before, which
she had forgotten.
Swallowing the last bite of cake, she casually remarked, “Well, let’s go then.”
Seth’s eyes followed her hand as it rested on the fork beside her, his
unfathomable dark eyes briefly betraying an indiscernible emotion. “Finished?”
“Yes.”
Standing up, Seth said, “Then let’s go.”
Cicely took her time drinking some water, then slowly rose to her feet, flashing
Seth a smile as she approached him. He took her hand, and they left together.
“Did you finalize the script you’ve prepared for her?”
“Mhm.” Seth buckled her up with straightforward honesty, “It’s C&P’s big feature
this year.”
“But the script you picked for Emiliana wasn’t from C&P, and she even won an
award for that role. Big features aren’t exclusive to C&P, you know.”
Cicely turned to look at the man whose expression was a bit tense. Her smile
deepened, “Remember our deal, okay? Once she’s discharged, you promised
her a role in a show, and then you’re free of any entanglement.”
“Understood.”
Cicely didn’t say much more. She had been holding back until now, just one step
away from the outcome.
At this point, there really wasn’t any need for words or actions. It should all go
smoothly.
Danielle got discharged, and started filming. Cicely would marry Seth, and they
would announce it to the world.
Everyone would be happy, square and fair.
*
At the hospital, everyone was there. Erik, Creighton, and Patty.
Everything was packed up. It seemed they were just waiting for them, or rather,
for Seth alone.
Danielle was dressed in a plain, ankle-length dress, revealing a stretch of her
slender, pale leg, moving as gracefully as before.
When Seth arrived, Patty finally breathed a sigh of relief. “Alright, let’s head
home. I can’t stand another second in this hospital.”
Cicely was holding a bouquet of flowers, but seeing Danielle, she didn’t seem
inclined to hand them over. Instead, she just raised an eyebrow and smiled
faintly, “Congratulations on your recovery.”
Seth stepped forward, handing over a folder to Danielle. “The promise I made to
you.”
Danielle took it, flipped through it, and found a script. Her grip tightened
suddenly, and looking up with a laugh, her eyes began to fill with tears. “Are you
that eager to be rid of me? I haven’t even left the hospital, and you’re already
looking to sever ties?”
Seth’s face was impassive, “A discharge gift.”
Danielle bit her lip hard.
Patty quickly came to soothe Danielle, glaring at Seth, “Couldn’t you have
picked a better time to give this to her?”
“Sooner or later it had to happen. She knows it well. Filming starts next month.
You’re the lead actress. Be prepared.”
Danielle’s tears fell in drops, infuriating Patty to the point of clenching her teeth,
“You…”
Suddenly, Creighton spoke up with a stern voice, “Enough! If you want a role,
the Ellis family has plenty of resources to help you. We all knew what you were
thinking when you made that deal with Seth. Having agreed to it has already
granted you significant favor. Now that we’re simply fulfilling a promise, do you
still expect to choose a time that suits you?”
“And what time would that be, to your liking?”
Cicely was taken aback; her father seemed unusually firm today. Danielle had
not even left the hospital and was already feeling slighted by Seth, and now her
father had given her another blow.
Danielle’s face froze, apparently not expecting Creighton to speak those words.
Her tears, in Cicely’s eyes, were like a fountain, flowing on command, never
drying up.
“Creighton, what nonsense are you spouting at such a time?” Patty was getting
frantic, glaring at him.
“Nonsense? Cicely and Seth are about to get married. When does Danielle plan
to give up and leave them alone?”
“We came to pick her up from the hospital, and what then? She sat there
determined to wait for someone. If she doesn’t move, we all have to sit and wait
with her. No matter how spoiled Cicely might be, she’d never stoop to such low,
selfish, disrespectful behavior. For years, the Ellis family has offered her nothing
but genuine care, and what has it gotten in return?”
It turned out Danielle was really waiting for Seth. Cicely regarded Danielle with
eyes brimming with irony.
After Creighton finished his words, he pulled Erik up, who was sitting in a chair,
leaning on a cane, with a scowl that barely hid his exhaustion.
“If it were just me today, I could wait with you. Your grandfather, at his age,
came personally to take you home for lunch, and you have the nerve to sit here
waiting. You really are something.” Creighton took almost every ounce of temper
he’d ever had in his life out on Danielle. Danielle had quite the skill to drive such
a gentle and courteous man to this state.
Danielle’s eyes blinked, and she suddenly realized her fault, but she looked up
not at Creighton or the tired-looking Erik who was still hungry. Instead, her gaze
was fixed on Seth, who stood beside Cicely. Even in embarrassment, it seemed
she only cared about Seth’s opinion.
Cicely walked to the bedside and tossed the bouquet she had been cradling into
the trash bin. She approached Danielle, her smile chillingly cold.
“What are you going to do?” Patty said defensively, stepping forward to shield
Danielle.
Cicely’s lips twisted into a discernible curve, her clenched hand in her pocket
gradually relaxing. “Why so nervous? Do you also feel Danielle indeed deserves
a good scolding?”
“Danielle, as the Ellis family’s granddaughter, it’s okay for you to be proud and
arrogant. But you need to know your place. If someone’s trying to teach you
manners, you should be humble enough to learn, not keep thinking you’re above
everyone else.
“How long have you lived, and how long have grandfather and my father lived?
The Ellis Group has remained stable under their guidance and is now a worldrenowned enterprise. How many people want to connect with them, or be
friends with them? Whether they succeed or fail, even a fool can see it clearly.
How come when it comes to you, even the most basic respect is lost?
“No wonder Seth doesn’t see anything in you, and to think otherwise would be
foolish. In fact, aside from Ray, no man would be so blind as to truly fancy you.
Unless, of course, your looks have some selling point.”
Danielle was so angry she shook all over, biting her lip until blood seeped out.
Cicely chuckled, “Since you have been discharged, what’s the point in lingering
with everyone here? Go home and prepare well for your role; after all, this script
wasn’t easy to come by.”
Patty held Danielle’s trembling arm tightly, “Let’s go, Danielle. Whatever it is, we
can talk after you’re discharged.”
They had to leave eventually.
Danielle glared at Cicely’s retreating figure, her eyes filled with undeniable
hatred. Patty squeezed Danielle’s arm and patted her back gently. The tension
in Danielle’s eyes blinked away, and her body slowly relaxed.
The group reached the hospital entrance, where three cars were parked,
arranging for everyone to get in.
Cicely now stood on the hospital steps, her arm linked with Seth’s, her gaze
faint and distant as she watched Patty and Danielle inseparable like shadows.
“Seth, tell me, do you think Danielle will really keep the promise she made to
you?”
Seth looked down at Cicely with a pensive frown. “Why do you ask this all of a
sudden?”
Cicely looked up at him, a wry and somewhat ironic smile playing around her
eyes. “I just suddenly felt that she’s not the type to keep her word. She’s too
competitive, especially against me. She won’t just give you up. You say you’ll
take care of her until she’s better, and you’ve promised her a role in a
screenplay. Do these things really mean more to her than her own life? Thinking
about it, this deal of yours doesn’t seem to favor her much, does it? Can she
really just let it go?”
Seth’s brow furrowed deeper. “I am married, Mrs. Diaz.”
Cicely chuckled softly. “But if I can’t manage to get along with my mother-in-law,
it speaks volumes, doesn’t it?”
She sighed then continued, “As long as your mom likes Danielle, she’s bound to
dislike me. That means I could be kicked to the curb at any moment.”
A deep, cobalt flame seemed to ignite in his eyes, his voice tight with tension.
“Stop that nonsense.”
Cicely sighed again, tiptoed, and rested her chin on the man’s shoulder.
“Danielle has your all-important mother to back her up. Look at me, what do I
have? Isn’t that pitiful? Won’t you consider handing over Diaz International to
me? At least then I’d have a fighting chance.”
Seth looked at her with a light gaze. “We’ve talked about this already.”
Cicely pouted in disappointment. As she turned her head, she suddenly caught
sight of a figure standing behind the hospital’s reinforced glass door, wearing a
black hat and a black mask, revealing only a pair of eyes that were coldly fixed
on her.mHer heart skipped a beat at the sight, her body staggering slightly.
When she looked again, the person seemed to smile at her, lifting a cellphone in
their hand, then turned and disappeared around the corner.
Seth steadied her promptly. “What’s wrong?”
Cicely pointed towards the door. “I thought I just saw someone I know.” She
could only say familiar, but with that disguise, she couldn’t make out who it was.
Seth looked back, but the crowd in the lobby was too thick to spot anyone
familiar to Cicely. “Who?”
Cicely furrowed her brow in thought, then finally shook her head. “I must have
been mistakenSeth whisked Cicely back to the company without a moment’s hesitation.
The whole ride there, her mind was a whirlwind of curiosity about who that
person could possibly be. She mentally flipped through every face she
remembered, but couldn’t match those eyes with any of them.
“What’s on your mind?” Seth glanced over at her several times during the drive,
each time finding her lost in thought.
She thought about it and couldn’t really think of who that person was, so she
could only shake her head, “Nothing.”
Taking a deep breath, she expelled the frustration from her system, her
eyebrows lifting playfully as she spoke, “So, any more surprises in store for me
Enter title…
today? Don’t tell me Danielle getting discharged is your big reveal.”
Seth’s lips curled slightly, “You didn’t know she was getting discharged
today?”d2
Cicely pursed her lips, “Dad called me last night.”
“You think her discharge counts as a surprise?”
Cicely rolled her eyes, “I’d rather she stayed there for the rest of her life if she
wasn’t wearing you out with every passing day she spent in the hospital.”
“Then it’s not that.”
Knowing she’d get nothing out of him, Cicely switched gears to another question
that had been nagging at her. “Actually, there’s a lunch at home because
Danielle is getting discharged. Why did you insist on us grabbing a bite before
heading over?”
“Weren’t you satisfied with today’s lunch?”
“It could’ve waited for another day.”
Their car slipped into the company’s underground parking lot, darkness
enveloping them, the sound of the tires rolling over speed bumps echoing
emptily.
“I’d hate to spoil your appetite; keeping your stomach happy seemed like the top
priority.”
Cicely paused, a smile she couldn’t suppress playing at her lips, “Since when
did you get so smooth?”
“Just stating the facts.”
They rode the elevator straight up to the top floor office.
As the door swung open, Cicely fixed her gaze on Seth, her eyes sparkling,
filled with anticipation for the surprise Seth had promised.
Seth, as cool as a cucumber, took his seat and began going through paperwork
as Charlie came in to report on the company’s project progress.
Seth browsed through the documents with a calm demeanor, signing off on
them after hearing Charlie’s update. Charlie handed over the signed documents,
and Cicely hurried over, her eagerness palpable.
Seth’s eyes hinted at amusement watching her. It had been a long time since
he’d seen her this lively and spontaneous in his presence. It was a rare sight
these days, but still deeply missed.
“Where’s my surprise?” Cicely pressed.
But no sooner had she asked than there was another knock on the door. Seth’s
eyebrow quirked up as he called for the person to enter.
Charlie walked in, only to be met with Cicely’s dark, stormy gaze. “Charlie, can’t
your updates wait to be reported all at once? Do you really have to come in and
out just to catch glimpses of Seth?”
Corner of Charlie’s mouth twitched, a bit caught off guard as he glanced toward
Seth, who was busy pretending to be fascinated by his pen. “Ma’am, this work
just came up unexpectedly, and I couldn’t delay.”
Cicely pursed her lips, leaned against Seth’s desk, arms crossed, and huffed to
show her displeasure.
Charlie cast a tentative look at Seth, feeling a tad nervous. Had he managed to
ruffle the lady of the house?
With a nod from Seth, Charlie placed the latest market research report on the
desk – a hot-off-the-press issue. Seth flipped it open and glanced through it.
Charlie continued, “Mr. Diaz, there’s already a software of similar nature making
rounds on the internet, boasting nearly three hundred thousand users. Our
development is in the final stages, and to prevent these competitors from getting
too savvy about our direction, I suggest we hold off on any further market
research to keep our information close to the chest.”
Seth, looking satisfied with the report, responded, “Do you really think that the
program I’ve spent a fortune and time to design could be so easily overtaken by
those shortcut-seekers and copycats? We’ve got the patents. Let them take a
shot at it. This research shows that our brand recognition and acceptance are
on the rise. Let them test the waters for us; it’s good publicity, after all.”
Charlie nodded in agreement.
The room fell into a brief silence, broken only by Cicely’s cool stare. “Charlie,
we’re not expecting any more last-minute documents in the next half-hour or so,
right?”
With an awkward chuckle and a couple of ‘no, no’s, Charlie beat a hasty retreat
from the office.
Cicely stood up, eyes narrowed, “You’re not tricking me into accompanying you
to pick up Danielle from the hospital, are you?”
“Tired?” Seth deflected, not directly answering her question.
Furious, Cicely retorted, “I’m going to sleep. Don’t bother waking me if my
‘surprises’ are not here!” With that, she stormed off to the office’s rest area, her
face a mask of indignation.
Ten seconds.
Fifteen seconds.
A thrilled shriek pierced the silence from the rest area, followed immediately by
the door swinging open as Cicely burst out.
Seth, lounging in his chair with a pleased expression, wasn’t surprised by her
reaction; it was as if he had expected it all along.
Cicely bounced up to him, pointing excitedly inside, “When did it get here?”
“About two hours ago,” Seth replied calmly, which meant it had arrived right
around the time she had reached the company’s lobby.
“Why didn’t you tell me sooner?!” She dashed back into the rest room, a
whirlwind of excitement, while Seth watched her, amused. Her curiosity was
clearly piqued by the contents inside. He pushed back from his desk and
followed her in.
In the center of the rest room stood a dazzling pure white wedding dress, its
surface almost entirely covered in delicate diamond sparkles. Despite the drawn
curtains, even the faintest light made the gown shimmer with a rainbow of
colors.
Not a detail was spared, even the gloves were adorned. The dress,
conservative in design with an off-the-shoulder cut and long lace sleeves,
exuded an air of top-tier elegance and charm. The train of the veil was so long it
hardly fit in the room, cascading down, wide enough to cover her shoulders
entirely.
She suspected every detail of the dress bore Seth’s influence, designed with
conservatism in mind.
Still, it was utterly breathtaking.
She had visited countless bridal shops before, but never had she found a dress
that captivated her heart quite like this one.
Cicely twirled in front of the mirror, her hands caressing the delicate lace of the
wedding gown she couldn’t seem to part with. “Do you think I’ll be the most
beautiful bride in the world if I wear this?” she asked, her eyes sparkling with
excitement as she clung to the dress.
Seth watched her, an amused smile curling his lips. “That’s a question for the
Magic Mirror, love.”
Cicely’s brow furrowed in mock annoyance. “Oh, c’mon! Can’t you just say yes?”
Approaching her with a relaxed stride, Seth’s fingers grazed the edge of the veil.
“Sure, you’re the most beautiful to me, but I prefer it when everyone agrees
you’re the fairest of them all. A princess only gets one answer from the Magic
Mirror.”
Well, the guy sure had a way with words.
Delighted, Cicely whipped out her phone and started snapping pictures of the
gown from every angle.
Seth stepped back, “Aren’t you going to try it on?”
“No way,” Cicely shook her head. “If I try it on in front of you now, you won’t get
the full effect on our wedding day.”
Her eyes danced with mirth as she looked at Seth. “Just you wait until the big
day to see the magic happen.”
Seth pressed his lips together, a sign that his patience was being tested.
“I’m gonna send these pics to Grandpa, Dad, and Issac.”
A shadow passed over Seth’s eyes, a hint of displeasure seeping through his
gaze. “Do you have to share everything with Issac?”
Cicely was busy typing out a message, replying without thinking, “Uh-huh.”
But then, sensing Seth’s mood, she looked up, her eyes still warm with smile.
“Issac has always been there for me since we were kids. I didn’t have many
friends, so naturally, he’s the one I talk to the most. He even bought sanitary
pads and underwear for me during my first period. And I remember once I
stained his shirt. I think he washed it himself.”
It seemed like a sudden recollection, and now, thinking back, she blushed a bit.
Back then, boys were so concerned with keeping their image, getting
embarrassed over the smallest things. They were especially offended by things
like girls getting their periods, and the boys often made fun of girls for such
things.
But Issac never did.
The more she thought about it, the more she realized how good Issac had been
to her. He’s quietly standing by her side, always there when needed, without a
single complaint. Because of his silent presence, she took him for granted all
these years, treating him like part of the background. But, he was as essential to
her as her nose, her eyes, her limbs – any part of her body.
Taken for granted, yet indispensable.
Cicely’s expression grew more serene as she pondered what life without Issac
would be like. What kind of Cicely would she be now?
Her contemplation caused Seth’s face to darken further.
“Cicely, what are you thinking about?”
His voice was deep and brooding, snapping Cicely back to reality just as her
phone vibrated in her hand. She looked down to find a message from Issac.
[Beautiful. You’ll definitely be the world’s most beautiful bride.]
Cicely’s lips curved into a gentle smile. See? That was the kind of answer that
satisfied a girl.
Upon seeing her reaction, Seth strode over and snatched the phone from her
hand.
He glanced down at the message Issac had sent so promptly. “I didn’t realize he
had it in him to say such things. Does that please you?” His jealousy wasn’t
even trying to hide itself.
“What girl doesn’t like to be called beautiful? Someone’s a bit too obvious with
their jealousy, Mr. Diaz.”
“Jealous?” Seth scoffed, then he tossed the phone back to her. “Shouldn’t I be?”
Cicely caught the phone, finding it amusing to see such a display from him. “Of
course, you should. Anyway, I might be out this afternoon for a bit, so you hold
down the fort at the office, champ.”
She pecked him on the lips and turned to leave, only to be yanked back by her
arm. “You didn’t mention having plans this afternoon. Where are you going, and
what for?”
Cicely thought for a moment. “Shopping.”
Seth’s brow furrowed. “Tell me what you need, and I’ll have someone buy it.”
“No need. Shopping is more meaningful when done personally.”
“I’ll have Charlie follow you.”
“Why suddenly assign Charlie to tail me? I’ll have Issac.”
Seth’s expression became even more strained.
Cicely sighed, her fingers fiddling with the smooth fabric of Seth’s suit sleeve.
“Issac and I have been like two peas in a pod since we were kids. He’s always
been good to me. He’s handsome, fit, even-tempered, and capable.”
Seth abruptly brushed her hand away, but she just laughed softly and caught his
sleeve again. “So, if there was anything romantic between Issac and me, you
wouldn’t have the change with me. If there was anything to develop, it would’ve
happened long ago.”
Seth tried to pull away, but Cicely held on tight.
“I’m married, Mr. Diaz. If you keep getting jealous, should we take out our
marriage certificate and give it a good look to calm your current mood?”
“The person who needs a good look is you.”
“Alright, alright. We’ll look at it together tonight at home.” She patted his hand
soothingly. “There, there. I’ll come pick you up after work, and we’ll head home
together.”
Seth just stared at her, and sighed.
*
As soon as Cicely left the office, she messaged Issac. [Going shopping.]
[Got it.]
Charlie, noticing Cicely’s departure, quickly got to his feet and greeted her. “Mrs.
Diaz, it hasn’t been an hour yet.”
Cicely gave a nonchalant “Hm” in response. “I’m leaving it to you. It seems like
you’re itching to spend more time with my husband. Didn’t want to keep you
waiting.”
The secretaries nearby couldn’t help but stifle their laughter at the exchange.
Charlie turned beet red. “Mrs. Diaz, it’s really just work.”
Cicely raised an eyebrow, giving him a knowing smile before heading for the
elevator.
Charlie, under the secretaries’ amused gazes, carried the freshly delivered
paperwork into Seth’s office.
Seth had just returned to his desk when he saw Charlie. He stopped in his
tracks. “You, follow Cicely.”
*
Stepping out of the office building, Cicely found Issac’s car already waiting for
her. He quickly opened the door and stepped out to greet her. “Miss, which mall
would you like to visit today?”
Cicely paused at the door, looking up at him. “Where do you usually shop for
clothes?”
Issac paused, his expression subdued as he spoke, “If I’m really short on
clothes, I’ll find the nearest small department store to buy some. It’s not the
place for you, Miss.”
Cicely frowned slightly, her gaze landing on Issac’s shoulder. She didn’t have
much of an idea about men’s suits or brands. She saw him every day, decked
out in a suit and leather shoes, impeccably neat and tidy. Yet, she had never
considered that his clothes might actually be so cheap.
Suddenly, she reached out and pinched the collar of Issac’s suit. Issac flinched,
instinctively stepping back.
“Don’t move.” Cicely leaned in closer, examining it carefully. In terms of color,
fabric, and craftsmanship, it was a far cry from any of Seth’s suits.
“It’s certainly not suitable for me.” Cicely let go of his collar and gracefully slid
into the car. “Then we’ll head to the most upscale department store in P City.”
“Alright.”
*
After parking the car in the underground lot, Cicely unbuckled her seatbelt.
“Issac, come with me.”
“Okay.”
A warm feeling suddenly washed over Cicely. The words Issac used most often
in her presence were “okay” and “yes.” Regardless of whether her proposals
were right or wrong, he was always like that
They walked into the elevator, and Cicely pressed the button for the men’s
designer floor.
The women’s section was mostly populated by female shoppers, while couples
dominated the men’s section.
Cicely was now the bride-to-be who was the talk of P City, and in this luxurious
place, there was no one who wouldn’t recognize her. Whenever she approached
a counter, the sales associates would surely offer their congratulations. “Ms.
Cicely, are you shopping for Mr. Diaz?”
Cicely just smiled faintly without answering. She casually perused the suits on
display, occasionally pulling one out and having Issac, who was standing by the
entrance, try it on for size.
Issac stood ramrod straight, allowing Cicely to use him as a temporary
mannequin.
After visiting three or four brand stores and trying on no fewer than ten suits,
Cicely finally spotted a white suit at another counter that caught her eye. After a
quick measure-up on Issac, she turned to the nearby sales associate and said,
“This one, get his size for him to try on.”
Issac glanced at the white suit, his lips tightening slightly. Hesitating for a
second, he still couldn’t help but speak up, “Mr. Diaz probably doesn’t like
white.”
“Who cares about that?”
She continued to pick out a shirt and tie, and then handed them to Issac to try
on. She went back to browsing the other styles on display.
Just a few minutes later, the fitting room door swung open, revealing Issac in a
white suit. Wearing a black shirt paired with a blue-gray diagonal striped tie, his
white waistcoat peeked out from beneath his open suit jacket. The jacket was
decorated with a row of carefully crafted black buttons. His overall look was a
balance of refinement and elegance.
His usual wear was always a modest black suit. This color, which he had never
tried before, turned out to suit him as well.
Cicely was pleased. “This is the one. Wrap it up when we’re done here.”
“Miss, I think my size is one down from Mr. Diaz.”
“Who said I was buying for him?”
Issac paused, mentally running through images of the Mr. Erik and Mr.
Creighton, yet none seemed to fit. “Could this be for…”
“Mm-hmm, hurry up and change. We need to get shoes next.”
“Miss,” Issac felt uneasy, glancing down at the suit he was wearing, “I’m often
working outside; this outfit doesn’t really suit my needs.”
“Who said anything about wearing it to work?” Cicely laughed lightly. “You think
I’d have you drive around in a high-end white suit? That’s not my style.”
“Then this is for…”
Cicely took a deep breath, “Did you really think I’d let you attend my wedding in
something off the rack from a small department store?”
Issac fell silent for a moment, “I’ll prepare something myself.”
“But I don’t trust your taste. You’ll be sitting with my family at the wedding. You
need to uphold the image of Cicely. If you don’t want the suit, then don’t bother
coming to my wedding.”
Of course, Issac would attend Cicely’s wedding. It was a given, no question
about it. However, Cicely’s words gave Issac pause, “Could I purchase it
myself?”
“That’s not an option.”
Silently, Issac turned and went back into the fitting room. Cicely smiled with
satisfaction and paid the bill.
After buying shoes, Issac found himself trailing behind Cicely, his arms filled
with bags of his own belongings for the first time.
Passing a café, Cicely stepped inside, ordering two cups of coffee without
hesitation. Issac couldn’t feign ignorance any longer and took a seat opposite
her.
The tall, handsome man exuded an aura of discomfort. Cicely rested her chin on
her hand, watching him, her voice soft, “Seeing that wedding dress today, I feel
like I’m finally getting married, stepping into the next phase of life, and it all hit
me hard. I thought about my life. Few people have been by my side, but they’re
the most important to me.”
“I considered what Cicely would be like without you in my life, and I can’t
imagine an answer.” Cicely sipped her coffee, gazing out the window at the
passersby. “Since I can remember, you’ve been there with me as a friend and a
brother, supporting me unconditionally, right or wrong. Wherever I am, whenever
I need you, you show up without fail. You never say much, always going along
with me, and I took that for granted, then easily overlooked you.”
Cicely turned back, catching the unguarded disappointment in Issac’s eyes. She
pressed her lips together, smiled gently. “But if you were absent from my
wedding, I think I would be very lost. Apart from the groom running away, your
absence would sadden me more than anyone else’s.”
Issac looked at her in surprise.
Cicely straightened up, stirring her coffee. “It’s the most important moments of
my life, and you won’t be absent, right?”
Issac nodded, “Right. I’ll always be there.”
At first, Charlie didn’t understand why Mr. Diaz had suddenly asked him to follow
his wife. Whenever she went out, Issac was always by her side, without fail. And
today seemed no different. Adding him to the mix seemed redundant.
shopping for clothes and
Charlie kind of got why Mr. Diaz
she said, they were enough to set
a thing for Mr. Diaz, her
confession.
*
out of the café and rushed back to the
wait for Seth to finish work
departures.
already sent Issac on his way, knowing she’d be
soon enough.
Seth was hammering away at the
with
in work?” Cicely flopped
monitor, Seth asked
What’d you buy?”
weighing the
him off, she thought. “Just browsed a bit, didn’t
Was there really a need to
the place was
guilty, “Who
saved the file,
I dig, or
by his
you out, or cheat on you? What could I
check
expression darkened, “If there’s nothing you could do,
can’t
what if you get all jealous and gobble
done that would
act
died down. She couldn’t outplay this man. “So if I
promise not
a laugh, standing up and moving closer
it to yourself. As you thought, I might just
you up.”
“Eh?”
begun to question when suddenly, she was swept off
and into his arms.
what was happening, she kicked and struggled, “Hey, don’t! I
are you jealous
kicked open the door to the
her into the bed.
I think we should exercise some restraint. Save some
wedding night.”
need
really
“Heh.”
the man silenced her, and she had no more
was thoroughly
kicked him weakly a couple of times, her
but her efforts feeble.
Charlie’s call came through, as if
take the call, something apparently
put and left
was drained, waiting obediently was not in her
out of bed and decided
preparing to leave, so she ambled over to
used to working late and
to mess with her.
out of her league, but that didn’t
employees’ feathers.
appeared, everyone sat up straight, and
smirked and scanned
usually loitered around, wasn’t there, she headed for his
to work today,” a
day she visited. Poor Camden must’ve
and yet not
“I didn’t hear about him taking a
things she
He
I’ll have a word with Seth and ask him
cut Camden some slack.”
a chair next to the programmer, “I’m in a
for me. I
coder looked at her and sighed silently.While waiting for a coder to work
to find a text from Emiliana. [Sorry,
wedding dress is gorgeous. I adore it
dying to see
on every girl’s soft spot. Cicely
dress was the envy of another girl. [Come over and
then,] she
I’m free tomorrow night though. How
followed by a string of
Enter title…
an eyebrow, [Tomorrow’s Friday. Alright, we’ll
take a look.]
[Yay!!! Love you!!]d2
[Sure. Dismissed.]
[Got it, your Highness.]
off, Emiliana had become more confident and
grown more familiar and
and Erik. Cicely
older folks just
turned her attention
“Are we almost there?”
more
propped up her chin, bored. “Do you tech guys ever
in a hard drive to mess up someone’s system,
to steal trade
do write viruses, but it’s rare and targeted. We’re mostly
upgrading and reinforcing firewalls. As for hacking
steal secrets, those kinds of machines
into. Take our computers here—our firewalls
by Mr. Diaz. We’re
worries.”
murmured, “so if there’s corporate
job?”
but that’s a
“Right.”
“It’s ready, ma’am.”
“Huh?”
cartoon character playing on the scree.
to Seth. The character was
brows and a stern,
to Seth’s typical
“So this is
sat upright, “Mr. Diaz is a
ma’am.”
out loud and said, “Move
tech yielded his seat and showed her a
punches with “pow, pow, pow” sounds, and the
even swell
was
taking a hit.
over half an hour,
in the office, suspecting she was
she would
giggles echoed through the office space. The tech, whose
watched Seth approach with a thunderous expression, then glanced
Diaz getting pummeled on the screen and felt his legs go
“Ma’am.”
engrossed in the game, ignored
“Mr. Seth…”
continued. The office, which had been
typing, fell silent, making Cicely’s
sensed a chilling
she locked eyes with Seth’s dark,
intense she blinked rapidly.
at the screen, his voice icy, “Having
“Yeah.”
“Enjoying it?”
“Sorta.”
a sound that sent shivers down her spine. “Should I
getting yourself so excited?”
had the nerve to
comment in public.
her from
need, I’ve had my fill. Don’t wanna
her close, his hand tight against her skin, and she
harder when
Seth
of engineering department collectively exhaled in
heavens!
*
car, Cicely put as much distance between herself and Seth as possible.
looking
but chuckle at
let
some playground.
there distracting
comeback for that. “I was there to boost morale, and I
work hard. You should consider
they have to entertain
seem fair.”
really because you’re the
owe them that
gave her
his hand on her neck, his voice teasing.
breath, “Did you know Camden called in
to change
narrowed slightly,
to care for
then turned
Camden.”
“Sure.”
light. Charlie quickly
ten seconds before it was
crackling to life. “Hello, Charlie, is that
frazzled, prompting Charlie to ask, “What’s
Camden? Something wrong?”
and
of Mr.
was even, “Not that. Mr. Diaz is right here.
directly.”
real? You are with
you don’t even have a minute to call and ask
cut through the air, while
such scenes, merely watched as Camden’s trembling voice
the
sorry, Mr. Diaz, it won’t happen again. It’s just that
of days, and I was hoping to take this opportunity
a few more days
Friday, and then it’s the weekend. You
days?”
should do it, that’s plenty. Thank you,
“Alright.”
Cicely lounged back
older than you, and yet, just
stuttering and shaking
his hefty salary is me. Anger your bread and butter,
when you
glanced out the window at a couple of girls walking side
with an ice cream
ice cream
Tomorrow, Emiliana.
you for dinner tomorrow night.
Emiliana.”
will you be
sure. Emiliana rarely gets out, so dinner, a movie, or maybe just hang
be home before midnight
by ten at the latest. Otherwise,
get to have
not providing you with a satisfying
cough, cough.” Charlie, who was driving with utmost
choked unexpectedly.
anticipated this side of Mr.
scalded by
most shameless
*
the restaurant
Danielle was discharged from the hospital. Emiliana naturally
reviews as well.
decided to catch a movie. The cinema
They bought a couple of
while taking a
life. The square
revolved around
on
you. For groomsman, Issac’s
the groomsmen be Mr.
If not, Issac can just
bridesmaids.”
want him
I actually suggest it, he might just
spoils you
out a proud
passed by posters of movie
glamorous than the last.
now, and to avoid unnecessary
hat.
grabbed
the promotional boards—several were talents
saw Danielle at the studio
be
the electronic posters.
much, “Considering it’s the biggest studio in P City
into each other
and crew today, so lavish.
it’s a top-notch production.”
to help out, he wouldn’t skimp.
Mr. Diaz’s favors are bound to be
true,” Cicely agreed with
saw some high-profile lady at the set visiting Danielle.
so she’ll probably rest over the weekend. Let’s drop it,
about to announce your wedding to
find our
could guess who Emiliana was referring
nodded and let Emiliana pull her
Cicely had called Issac, so as they
of the cinema, they
us to Diaz
“Got it.”
*
eerily quiet over the weekend.
naturally had her own access card.
top floor, they headed
astonished, “I thought
Why are we at
we’re here for the dress, but who knew he’d
his office?”
the man probably just wanted to corner her
They entered Seth’s office, flicking on the lights, and the
instantly bathed in brightness.
Emiliana’s first time here, and even without Seth present, she
help but feel tense.
office’s decor and arrangement screamed grandeur
ignored the little table
a plush cushion on the chair,
mats.
of Cicely cooped up in
couldn’t suppress a chuckle.
“What’s so funny?”
him at
can’t imagine it.
of cards out
“The affairs of Diaz
am I supposed to do if not play
a point there.”
decorative pillow from the chair and hurled it at her, “Laugh
but let’s see
waved her hands frantically, “No, no, I’m not up for that.
the
to a concealed door in the lounge
froze
in…” Emiliana couldn’t
her words stopped
a pause, she turned back with a mischievous
business this
a testament to their
crept up Cicely’s ears.
had hit the nail on
a cabinet. She
mouth, scurrying to the center of the lounge
wedding dress was displayed, now illuminated under the brightest
stunning than it
I’m
bell sleeves are
so lush and
silver thread embroidery,
design is
the stunning bridal gown was anything but
overstatement.
with an air of pride, “Did you
get the sneak peek before the big
a few high-resolution photos with her phone.
you wear it at the
share those pictures, okay? Wait until I’m
on the wedding day.”
a beautiful dress, you must have repaid the favor in
glare, “Are you done? If
shook her head, reluctant to leave the
and it still wouldn’t be
looking. I’m
“Hey, wait for me…”
she couldn’t
here and you’re already
as it is.” Cicely grabbed her purse from the couch,
annoyed.
“Late for what?”
wants me back by
eyebrow, “That strict,
as if the curfew was
doing anything wrong. Even if you are late, what’s Mr. Diaz
perhaps flirt
opened the office door, “I hope you
little’ to
as Cicely was about to
in mid-air, her gaze fixed on the display. Emiliana pressed
button herself,
on the top floor, and
on.”
entered, deep in
button for the ground floor, then pulled out a compact
had plans
drink.
and the elevator began to run, and when
floor, Cicely suddenly reached down
for the twelfth floor.
elevator halted almost
out just as they were
to catch only a glimpse of her retreating figure. “This is
floor!”
“Wait for me downstairs.”
and Emiliana couldn’t tell if Cicely heard
words.
to Cicely, second only to Seth’s office
it housed the Engineering
on the ground floor
two should have remained there, so why
at the twelfth?
home to
making. The software was in the final
sabotage
was no room for
something crucial behind and was
Or maybe someone was
The thought made
they? But if they did,
not a
down
flash of a smartphone’s flashlight
a hidden angle as the figure
for something in a sneaky
Cicely’s
insider. But who else could have a security badge for free
company?
The stranger sounded nervous, a
with anger and urgency.
noticed the Bluetooth earpiece, occasionally
communicating
Camden had a private office in the Engineering
voice on the
to realize something. That explained how the
security badge.
stranger something significant, and
for Camden’s
that file path you gave me
any tricks on me, and you’ll be
That voice…
of recognition flashing in her mind. Was
suddenly merged with the pair of eyes she’d
she had picked up Danielle from
pulsed at the center of Cicely’s
pieces of information started connecting in her
dropped out of school and sold his properties.
planning a comeback or something more extreme.
opted for the latter.
due to
because Ray had threatened him with his
Ray had vowed to make Seth pay, and now
he was executing
software development was well-known within the company,
could have. It was no secret that
International. So, he chose the moment
either steal the program or destroy it. Then, everything
worked for would
was clearly no different from a
face
reached for her phone to text Issac to come up when suddenly, her
the silence of the empty office space, the
walls.
Cicely’s mind went blank.
face, and she
her eyes from
Everything okay? When are you coming
Cicely’s face as she inhaled a quiet breath, “I’m
a moment more. I’ll be
“Make it snappy.”
“Will do.”
hung up the phone and tucked it into her purse. Her palms slick
sheen of cold sweat.d2
always said we have a certain fate,
Enter title…
as if being caught
thing in the world
offering a hesitant
him.
you
It’s rare for you to be
a weekend, Ms.
a moment before she
about getting
against a nearby desk, legs crossed, the
didn’t blow my
perhaps strike a deal?”
fell silent for a beat, then burst
Seth that day
I was just there to
closed the distance between them, their conversation as casual
“To be honest, our first
might have misunderstood you. I
romantic type,
as he removed his face
a shady deal, so could you hand
and then I’d really be
her purse to retrieve her phone. When
screen lit up, revealing a simple
had been lying
moment the phone’s screen illuminated, Ray snatched
checked the phone and
satisfied, he emptied her
bank cards, and other daily essentials across the
with the unassuming USB
up the drive, he raised an eyebrow with a
the same reason as me
fingers, her gaze fixed on the USB drive
head, “Not sure.”
“Hmm?”
desk, face-to-face with Ray,
Seth is cold and aloof.
Diaz International, left to him by his father.
for him is no secret, and even though
me. I don’t know when he might leave me,
to him, he wouldn’t just walk
Danielle, and to this day her desire to set him
alive and well. There was no way for me to break in
were set
transferring Diaz International to my
if the software development fails and the
easily fall into my hands.
Ellis Group, Diaz International is small fry. Whether
irrelevant to me; I just want
eyes on Ray who had been
sure if your goals align with mine. I intend to
Diaz International will then face a huge
it, the company
the software and start anew, I’m sorry, but I
Helping you profit is
your planning, you’ve left
to take it and reap any benefits. Even if you do
will eventually catch on, and he won’t let you off easy.
be the best
his expression contemplative, then
love can be terrifying, willing to
wrong. I’ve kidnapped Camden’s
the most important
sure he tastes the loss of his most prized
International”
making a quick
money? Better to obliterate it.
gaze on her, “Aren’t
behind this, he’ll
pang struck Cicely’s heart, “You had the
afraid of the cameras catching
of engineering Camden in my grasp
a
cameras, no evidence, no reason for him
me.”
a sardonic grin playing on his lips. “So,
together?”
toward
another access card to unlock the door to Camden’s office.
swivel chair, powered up the computer, and keyed
given him—spot
drive from his pocket,
as a cucumber, stopped
Ray.”
looked
I’m going to sabotage, I’ll do
that plain
could recover the lost files without breaking a sweat. What’s
your little exercise?”
Camden had a backup plan?
we
“Destroy the computer itself.”
puzzled, asked,
“You seem to be a bit out of your depth with
hard drive remains intact, smashing
the data more
was starting to panic. “Then what
drive he
flash drive is loaded with a
it’s in the system, it’ll
core operational data. The files
will be rendered useless.”
of a cyberpunk
It wasn’t outside the
I trust
you have a better option? We’re both in too deep
you’d let
pondered long and hard, and finally, through gritted teeth, decided to
Cicely.
we’re done, give me back the flash drive. It cost me a
knows? Maybe I’ll use it to get back
truly wipes the computer as you claim, then it’s useless
arched an eyebrow but
and inserted the flash drive into the port. The
black, showcasing
across the darkness.
display halted, and five seconds later,
ceased to hum, and
light faded to
It worked.
finally eased a bit. She had thought Joel’s
of her bold claims, but it seemed there was no
the power button of
same went for the monitor.
looked up at Cicely, easily noticing the faint smile playing on her lips.
now that love indeed could
wrath is a force to
gaze to meet his, raising an eyebrow, “What’s on
mind?”
a number on you.
princess to this extent.”
and tried the computer
and bent over to pull
could put up a fight, but
of the Ellis Group
of
generous,” he said with a laugh as he stood
deed is done, the rest is up to
phone for now. Once I’m
it by the fountain downstairs. Remember to pick it
Cicely remained stone-faced.
after Ray left the building, Cicely made her exit
department. She found Emiliana and Issac
lot.
hurried over. “Cicely, you were gone for so long,
energy was nearly spent from the standoff with Ray,
face, “Nothing much. Where are you staying
have Issac drive you.”
pallor and realizing she wouldn’t get far with
a
head home and
careful on your
Cicely into
Cicely leaned back, closing her eyes. “Miss,
happened?” Issac inquired.
responded with a faint “hmm” before
anyone else
were downstairs?”
“Did you run
“Ray.”
jerked violently before coming to a stop on
around to face her, his expression
her
restarted the car, and asked,
International?”
to destroy Seth more than
program.”
hesitated for a moment. “So, did he succeed in getting what he came
“Well… Oh, right.”
retrieved her phone, and
Joel’s phone was answered quickly. He
a little unsure about getting a call
drive
crack the program?”
the back
suddenly asking about this?”
bit her lip, a tremor in her
it.
to crack?”
through
ready to play with his phone before
that it’s too hard, just that other things
contact our senior right now and see
the phone tightly, tears circling
what
“Okay, hold on.”
to the landline to call his
came up, “We did have
difficult to solve, and then we
projects. What happened?”
urgency, blurted out, “The flash
the files urgently.
“That urgent?”
affirmatively, “Better if we
was silence on the other end before a
as she wiped
university? I’m coming, too.”
“Sure.”
up, Cicely bit her lip and sent a
tonight. Don’t
pouting emoji and turned
we’re heading to the
won’t be any help there. Better you
and wait for news.”
not knowing how to face him. I caused this mess, and now
it. Let’s just go to the university, and you turn off your phone
Seth can’t reach you.”
“Understood.”
at the university, Joel and his
after another.
and a look of unease, they
than to start
trying to understand
seen Cicely with red eyes
girl known for her pride, would cry. “You really don’t need to
with this. Go home, take
his arm, “I can’t, Joel…
what I’d do otherwise.” As
heartache and guilt, “Don’t worry, we’ll figure something
flash drive, so I share the blame. If you won’t
try to
was of no
nearby seat.
*
house when
phone call yesterday, Seth had a hunch
and found that Camden’s
no clue where they
vanished, and Mrs. Camden was
up from school. Camden was then threatened
wanted to see his wife and
been
been retrieved and were on their way to
company.
confirming she
Seth felt no urgency
*
Camden at the company, the man was a wreck. Falling
before Seth, Camden wept bitterly. “Mr. Diaz, I’m so sorry,
threatened
face darkened ominously. “Who
“It was Ray.”
frosty, became glacial as he
“And what did he want from
the company’s access cards, my office’s key cards, my
path for our
chill
felt that targeting Ray’s family without
g Ray was too ruthless, which was why he showed a
he tossed
and he did not pursue the
he didn’t expect him to really
Mr. Diaz, Ray doesn’t seem to know much about computers. If
I still might be able
more severe
after getting my
quickly left the office. Seth
scrambling behind.
*
office, Charlie
it up after several
approached the computer with a palpable tension, his
the screen fruitless. Frantically, he switched to a
remotely access the first. Within minutes,
like
wrong?!” Charlie, lacking Seth’s cool
Camden’s pale
lips quivered as he stammered, “Mr. Diaz, all its data has been
clean from that computer.”
in
voice was a cold snap threatening to fracture a
mean ‘all its data has been wiped
verge of passing out,
computer operate, it’s gone. Without it, this
a
in despair. It
preparation, a fortune invested, all for what? A
world’s most expensive junk.
his sides, clenched into fists as if
thought he didn’t know
I’m just as lost. I remember he took a USB flash drive
to it was enough. But this, this is the work of a
not some amateur.”
catching a glimpse of Seth’s ominously dark expression
his head down, “Mr. Diaz. I think
way he could’ve done this on his own
spun on his heel, “I’ll check the
would
had me erase the records of
halted, his
streaming down his cheeks. “My son
can’t risk their lives for the company. I’m just a
the firm, and I’m willing to do that. But
on the line. It’s just not fair.
silent for a long moment. Charlie watched his expression carefully,
still pond, eerily composed. “How long
over?”
still cowering, thought for a second. “It’s a six-month job.
off, two
Enter title…
Seth closed his eyes.
next month…
Ray, see if he has a
right! Maybe he
find him fast before he
action and dashed
*
night in his office,
their only
had fallen asleep at her desk numerous times, her
it was
reality of her surroundings and the two busy figures nearby
Anxiety and helplessness welled
who had spent two years
facing ruin was unbearable.
Disappointment? Regret? Defeat? Despair?
didn’t want to see him like
enough.
could blame her and they could not get married, but she couldn’t bear to
on
the whole time, pained to see
he stepped out to buy breakfast. Two portions
he placed before
cafeteria’s offerings were always the same – buns and
friend, having worked all
without taking their eyes off
the hearty scent of the
woke again, and Issac pushed the bag toward her,
breakfast.”
around, sniffed at the
over her mouth.
the room, Cicely leaned against the wall, heaving with
up.
rinsing her mouth and
stomach, she settled
draped her dropped jacket over
you to the hospital.”
“I’m
the jacket tight
the smell in there. Can you check on their
it?” Pale and weak, her voice
her to ask Joel
looked worn but hopeful, “We should be able
can’t give a definite timeline. Just tell her to
and that it’ll
Issac nodded, “Thank you.”
to Cicely. Despite being promised a certainty, no answer
getting a successful decoder
looked up at the brightening sky, biting her lip in worry.
he finds
“He won’t lose it. He’s young but
this, or if he ever
swollen eyes reddened again. “But he’s been working on
years.”
pained expression, “Everyone
I
because of me.”
and the harshness of reality made Cicely’s heart ache with
head, tears falling,
a hand on her head, soothing
away from the flash drive. They’ll crack the program sooner or
need to worry this much. Speak to him clearly, and
you did it for his sake.
are made by people.
a matter
mood steadied with Issac’s comforting
is it?”
What you need to do now is get some good
him at
if he finds out. I
work starts.” Issac held her back as
sleep for two hours before going to
the hotel next door.
awful, and this time Issac was insistent. She acquiesced
get
…
to see Danielle. Danielle
the studio city that evening, so they ended
morning, they were up early, ready to head back
they finished breakfast in their room and packed up,
downstairs.
about to walk out
the arm by someone who appeared out
instinctive scream.
anxious voice rang
and saw that it was
glanced at a startled
go of
but looked around and took out
I really like you, but I can’t expect you to
thing I can do for you. I hope you get what
wish
go to Diaz International before noon to see Seth. If you
you can ask him to meet you
“What are you talking about? Why can’t I go
should I
I’m out of time, I have to go.
his surroundings as he spoke, then abruptly cut
his cap down
the scene, asked, “Who
with the phone? Is
Patty’s driver approached,
with Patty and
out in the
*
a stroll outside, Creighton received a
bat,
eardrums.
sure raised a piece of work! She’s so heartless and
family can’t afford to have her, nor
will never agree to let her
Patty had just criticized him, Creighton wouldn’t have
to nothing, and
you this early in the morning? Where did Cicely wrong you
deserve such strong opinions?!”
wrong me?
Is she at home? If
right now. We’re going to
Patty hung up, Danielle suggested, “Patty, Ray advised us not to go
morning. Let’s ask them to meet
instead.”
to Diaz International?! Since when does
depend on his say-so.”
company on the brink, it was understandable for
her chest heaving with indignant rage, her fury was
curse, and yet I had to
but managed to drag
disaster!”
almost roared at the driver. Danielle frowned
raging and domineering demeanor, didn’t dare to speak up
accompanied her
*
left confused and annoyed after being
Cicely to ask what was going on,
might still be asleep. Instead, he called Issac, only
phone was off.
brow furrowed in
He immediately called Seth.
up quickly,
and Cicely have a
Seth paused, “No.”
did your mother just call me
worst? Are
issue at the company
out with friends
I can’t reach her. Could you try? By
that there was a problem at the
happened?”
his lips, “I’ll contact
“Alright.”
up feeling unsettled, especially
happened at the company. Given Patty’s hysterics on the call,
check on
*
of sleeping. No matter how uncomfortable
just took
and left the room.
waiting at the door, and
“Going to Diaz International?”
Cicely nodded.
to grab
Cicely shook her head.
insisted. They headed straight
company, they saw Charlie,
a big issue, Seth
was the logical conclusion. “Charlie,
office?”
her with an
the Engineering
caused a hitch in Cicely’s heart.
dim expression, she muttered, “I’ll go up
him.”
this time, accompanying her
quiet on the weekend.
to wait at the door
pairs of eyes turned to her
Seth, seemingly in the middle of
with him.
was in disarray, the computer tower and monitor now
across
glance was towards Seth, whose bloodshot
“Sleep well last night?” he asked,
raspy to the extreme.
the door handle tighter and after a brief silence, mustered
to speak. “Seth, I didn’t go home last night. I
late…”
because you spent the night partying with Emiliana that
home?”
never wavered from her, each question sounding
something else.
lip and shook
looked away. “As long as you haven’t
on me behind my back, there’s no issue. I’m busy now,
leave.”
the office. As
say something, Patty’s shrill voice suddenly cut through
you even hear what we just told you, or are you
dumb?”
project! Doesn’t this mess prove
is gone, and the computer is trashed.
go under because
woman!”
turned to Patty and Danielle, who was
“How did you
pointed at her, her eyes red with fury. “Listen
admits it and you still
stepped closer to Danielle, her gaze sharp.
did you know
Patty’s hand struck
violently, and he abruptly stood up from his
through the door and shielded
him.
now in a rage beyond control, glared at Cicely. “What
like this? After what you’ve done, you still act
shameless!”
was icy. “Madam, the situation isn’t clear
down.”
clarity do you need? Does this
laughed mockingly, pulling out a phone from her bag –
– and after pressing something, tossed
Seth.
play, its clarity
expression at the time:
and aloof. The most
International, left to
no secret, and even though we’re set to
know when he might leave me, so I thought, if I
him, he wouldn’t
favors Danielle, and to this day her desire to set him up with Danielle
alive and well. There was no way for me
were set
transferring Diaz International to my
saying that if the software development fails and the
would easily fall into my
Ellis Group, Diaz International is small fry. Whether it
value is irrelevant to me; I just
goal is to completely destroy this
Ellis family will help, and
fall into my hands.
proof of who did it. He has
to destroy, I’ll do it thoroughly. I know a
with a regular USB,
point of what
USB is infected with a virus I had specially
computer, it will
data, resulting in both
hardware failure.”
…
voice was interspersed, but it no
a color to it,
looked towards Seth, who was also
to mocking, and he even let out
obliterating even
done a thorough
head frantically and approached him, “It’s
batting away hers as she
herself on the nearby
it?” Seth eyed her coldly,
inch by inch. “You’ve mentioned more than
wanted to get your hands on Diaz International,
tearing it down. I thought you were
everything dull, and you can’t stand to look at
it’s like pulling teeth, but
codes, always scurrying off
with that,
you say are not
surveillance, I’d have
too. There’s no surveillance, just the
on a crack in
irony playing across her face. It looked like she didn’t have
Cicely was done for.
was spinning, and her heart ached.m“Seth,
of it was true. I only
Ray.”
look at her, his
It seemed like he was thinking, trying
for a way out for
spoke up, “If it was
the files onto a flash drive would have been enough. Why
remind him that he might get caught, and to destroy the
if he was going to do it?
words?”
Danielle completely overturned all
explanations.
he looked up again, they had
cold state. Just as Cicely was about
flash drive, his look silenced
the same time, four
are from Department of Justice, right?
maliciously destroy
the evidence is irrefutable. Please
preparing to
he turned to look at
phone over to one
the words ‘Department of Justice,’ Cicely’s head
of panic as she looked towards
to press charges against me?” Charlie’s stride
down his cheeks. “My
their lives for the company. I’m
willing to do that. But I can’t put
safety on the line. It’s
long moment. Charlie watched his expression carefully,
calm as a still pond, eerily composed.
over?”
off,
Enter title…
Seth closed his eyes.
wedding next month…
Ray, see if he has a backup
Maybe he still has a
to find him fast before
jolted into action
*
spent the whole night in his office, waiting
become their
asleep
hoped it was all a dream,
and the two busy figures nearby
Anxiety and helplessness welled up, followed
who had spent two years and a fortune
facing ruin was unbearable.
Disappointment? Regret? Defeat? Despair?
see him like that. Just the thought was
enough.
not get married, but she couldn’t bear
on
had been by her side the whole time, pained to see her this way. As
buy breakfast.
he placed
offerings were always the same – buns and
having worked all
taking their eyes off their
hearty scent
Issac pushed the bag toward her, “Have
breakfast.”
around, sniffed at the bag, then her face
the room, hand over her
the room, Cicely leaned against the wall, heaving
up.
After rinsing her mouth and quenching the
stomach, she settled
dropped jacket over her and
you to the hospital.”
“I’m fine. Just didn’t sleep
sat down by the flowerbed, pulling the jacket tight around her, and
Can you check on their progress for
and weak, her voice barely held
left her to ask Joel about the
but hopeful, “We should be able to
can’t give a definite
that it’ll
Issac nodded, “Thank you.”
reported back to Cicely. Despite being
without getting a
brightening sky, biting
do when he finds
a pause, Issac replied, “He won’t lose
this, or if he ever fails at something, he
he’s been working
years.”
pained expression, “Everyone
life to be smooth. I don’t want him
because of me.”
made Cicely’s heart ache
her head, tears falling, drop
placing a hand on her head, soothing
run away from the flash drive. They’ll
really don’t need to worry this much. Speak to him
you did it for his
programs are made
it’s just a matter of
with Issac’s comforting logic. She looked up, “What
is it?”
to do now is get some good sleep, then
at
worried if he
hours until work starts.” Issac held her back
hours before going to
for you in the hotel next
and this time Issac was insistent. She
to get some
…
Patty dropped by the set to see Danielle. Danielle
that evening, so they ended up staying at
early, ready to head back to
their room and packed up, they
downstairs.
they were about to walk out
who appeared out of nowhere. She let out
instinctive scream.
me.”A familiar, anxious voice
that it
glanced at a startled Patty and quickly
go of
around and
it to Danielle. “Danielle, I really like you, but I can’t expect you to
I can do for you. I hope you get what you
I wish you
Diaz International before noon to
him, you can ask him to
are you talking about? Why
why should I go see
time, I have to go.
an eye on his surroundings as he spoke, then
cap down
the scene, asked, “Who
phone? Is there something
Patty’s driver approached, and after greeting them,
with Patty and they walked down
it out in
*
his breakfast and taking a stroll outside, Creighton received a
Right off the bat, Patty’s shrill
eardrums.
sure raised a piece of work! She’s so
afford to have her, nor would we dare. This wedding
her marry into the Diaz family in my
Creighton wouldn’t have minded, but
his daughter to nothing, and Creighton’s temper flared.
the morning?
deserve such strong opinions?!”
snorted, “Where did she wrong me? She nearly ruined
wronged me?! Is she at home? If
right now. We’re going
“Patty, Ray advised us not
morning. Let’s ask
instead.”
we go to Diaz International?! Since when does my family’s
depend on his say-so.”
on the brink, it was
rage,
yet I had to be
to drag Diaz International down first. What
disaster!”
Diaz International!” Patty almost roared at the
domineering demeanor, didn’t dare
her
*
was left confused and annoyed after
wanted to call Cicely to ask what was going on,
asleep. Instead, he called Issac, only to
phone was off.
brow furrowed
He immediately called Seth.
was picked up quickly, and he sounded
did you and Cicely
Seth paused, “No.”
why did your mother just call me wanting to
she’s the worst? Are
an issue at the company last night. I didn’t
She was out
I can’t reach her. Could you try? By the
mother mentioned that there was
happened?”
“I’ll contact Cicely right
“Alright.”
especially
happened at the company. Given Patty’s hysterics on the call, he
to check
*
of sleeping. No matter how uncomfortable she was,
her eyes, so she just took a shower, changed into clean
and left the room.
the door, and seeing
“Going to Diaz International?”
Cicely nodded.
grab some breakfast
Cicely shook her head.
They headed straight
arriving at the company,
thought that with such a big issue, Seth would definitely be at
a weekend. That was the logical conclusion. “Charlie, is Seth in
office?”
up, his gaze locked on her with an unfamiliar
the Engineering
and terse reply caused a hitch in Cicely’s heart. She pressed
a dim expression, she muttered, “I’ll go up and
him.”
accompanying her upstairs. The
quiet on the weekend.
Issac to wait at the door while she pushed
Three pairs of eyes
before Seth, seemingly in the middle of
with him.
the computer tower and
across
glance was towards Seth, whose bloodshot eyes met
ferocity. “Sleep well last
raspy to the extreme.
and after a brief silence, mustered
didn’t go home last
late…”
because you spent the night partying with Emiliana that you
home?”
from her, each question sounding like
something else.
her lip and shook her
away. “As long as you
behind my back, there’s no issue.
leave.”
the chaos of the office. As she was about to open her
voice suddenly
hear what we just told
dumb?”
project! Doesn’t this mess
is gone, and the computer is
Diaz International might go under
woman!”
frown deepened as she turned to Patty and Danielle, who
her. “How did
her, her eyes
She admits it and you still don’t believe
to Danielle, her
you know about
Patty’s hand
violently, and he abruptly stood up from
heard the commotion, burst through the door and shielded
him.
a rage beyond control, glared at Cicely.
what you’ve done, you still
shameless!”
“Madam, the situation isn’t clear
down.”
clarity do you need?
mockingly, pulling out a phone from her bag – the one Ray
pressing something, tossed
Seth.
its clarity allowing one to imagine the
expression at the time:
is cold and aloof. The
Diaz International, left to him by his father.
no secret, and even though we’re set to marry, he’s never said
don’t know when he might leave me, so I
he wouldn’t
favors Danielle, and to this day her desire to set him
no way for me to break in
were set on
my
that if the software development fails and the company
easily fall
the Ellis Group, Diaz International
to me;
to completely destroy this
loan issues, then the Ellis family will help, and Diaz International
fall into my hands.
who did
Ray. If I’m to destroy, I’ll do it thoroughly. I know
a regular USB, any engineer here could recover the
What’s the point of
with a virus I
into the computer, it will automatically destroy
resulting
hardware failure.”
…
voice was interspersed, but
a color to it, went
Instinctively, she looked towards Seth, who was
morphing from grim to mocking, and he even let out a
something, obliterating even
a thorough
her head frantically and approached him, “It’s not like
hand, batting away hers as she reached for his
steadying herself on the
it?” Seth eyed her coldly, his gaze like
nerves inch by
you wanted to get your hands on Diaz International, and you’ve even
down. I thought you were just being flippant, Cicely.
dull, and you can’t stand to look at a
like pulling teeth, but you’re
always scurrying off to the engineering department.
with that,
would you say are not true?
have no reason to suspect you.
too. There’s no surveillance, just the
side, her gaze fixed on a crack in the floor,
across her face. It looked like
Cicely was done for.
felt terrible, her head was spinning, and her heart ached.m“Seth, I did
of it
Ray.”
turned to look at her, his clenched
desk beside him. It seemed like
for a way out
at that moment, Danielle suddenly spoke up, “If
onto a flash drive
might get caught, and to destroy the
to do it? Don’t you see
words?”
one sentence from Danielle
explanations.
looked up
Just as Cicely was
flash drive, his look silenced
time, four uniformed
said, “You guys are from Department of Justice, right? It’s her,
others to maliciously destroy company
and the evidence is
We’re preparing to
furrowed slightly as he turned to look
over to
the words ‘Department of Justice,’ Cicely’s
she looked towards
Are you going to press charges against me?” Charlie’s stride halted, his fury cresting.
tears streaming down his
their lives for
willing to do that. But
line. It’s just not fair.
was silent for a long moment. Charlie watched his expression
pond, eerily composed. “How long
over?”
still cowering, thought for a second. “It’s a six-month job.
off, two
Enter title…
Seth closed his eyes.
month… It was too
if he
nodded eagerly, “Right, right, right! Maybe he
him fast before he leaks our
jolted into action
*
whole night in his
their only
school, Cicely had fallen asleep at her desk
uneasy. She had hoped it was all a dream,
the two busy figures nearby brought
feeling. Anxiety and helplessness welled up, followed by
thought of Seth, who had spent two years and
facing ruin was unbearable.
Disappointment? Regret? Defeat? Despair?
want to see him like that. Just the thought was
enough.
and they could not get married, but she
on
had been by her side the whole time, pained to see
out to buy breakfast.
he
cafeteria’s offerings were always
all night,
buns without taking their eyes off
scent of the steamed
pushed
breakfast.”
groggy, looked around, sniffed at the
from the room, hand over her mouth.
the wall, heaving with nothing to
up.
her
she
dropped jacket over her
you to the hospital.”
her head, “I’m
the flowerbed, pulling the jacket tight
the smell in there. Can you
and weak, her
to ask Joel about
hopeful, “We should be able to do it.
and modify, but we can’t give a definite
that
Issac nodded, “Thank you.”
Cicely. Despite being
without getting
brightening sky, biting her lip in worry.
do when he finds out the
“He won’t lose it. He’s young
if he ever fails at something, he won’t
swollen eyes reddened again. “But he’s been working
years.”
expression,
smooth. I
because of me.”
of reality made Cicely’s
hung her head, tears falling, drop by
on her
the flash drive. They’ll crack
really don’t need to worry this much.
especially since you did it for his sake. Even if it’s
these programs are made by people.
just a
comforting
is it?”
now is get some good sleep,
at
be worried if he
two hours until work starts.” Issac held her back as she tried
can definitely sleep for two hours before going to the company.
hotel next door. Go rest
awful, and this time Issac was insistent. She acquiesced
to get
…
dropped by the set to see Danielle. Danielle
city that evening, so they ended up staying at
morning, they were up early, ready
their room and packed
downstairs.
to walk out the front door, Danielle
someone who appeared out of nowhere.
instinctive scream.
voice rang out. Danielle snapped back
and saw that it
glanced at a startled Patty and quickly shook
go of
go, but looked around and took out a
“Danielle, I really like you, but I
can do for you. I hope you get what you
wish
to Diaz International before noon to see Seth.
ask him to meet you somewhere
confused, “What are you talking about? Why can’t I go to
and why should I
of time, I have
an eye on his surroundings as he spoke, then abruptly cut Danielle
down low, and hurried
“Who
the phone? Is there something important on
Patty’s driver approached, and after greeting them,
and they walked down the
out in
*
and taking a
the bat, Patty’s shrill voice almost
eardrums.
sure raised a piece of work! She’s
afford to have her, nor
let her marry into the Diaz family in
just criticized him, Creighton wouldn’t
by belittling his daughter to
into you this early in the morning? Where
deserve such strong opinions?!”
“Where did she wrong me?
she at home? If
International right now. We’re going to settle this
hung up, Danielle suggested, “Patty, Ray
International this morning. Let’s ask them to
instead.”
to Diaz International?! Since
depend on his say-so.”
the company on the brink, it was understandable for
heaving with indignant rage, her fury
a curse, and yet I had
but managed to drag Diaz International down first. What
disaster!”
Patty almost roared at the driver.
domineering demeanor, didn’t
accompanied her
*
was left confused and annoyed after being
call Cicely to ask what was going
be asleep. Instead, he called Issac, only
phone was off.
furrowed
He immediately called Seth.
picked up quickly, and he
did you and Cicely have a
Seth paused, “No.”
call me wanting to
she’s the worst?
company last night. I
out with friends last
can’t reach her. Could you try? By
was a problem at the company.
happened?”
his lips, “I’ll contact Cicely right
“Alright.”
feeling unsettled, especially since
the company. Given Patty’s hysterics on
check on
*
no intention of sleeping. No matter how uncomfortable she
eyes, so she just took a shower,
and left the room.
door, and
“Going to Diaz International?”
Cicely nodded.
to grab
Cicely shook her head.
longer insisted. They headed straight for Diaz
at the company,
that with such a big issue, Seth would definitely be at the
weekend. That was the logical conclusion.
office?”
on her with an unfamiliar blend of anger
“In the Engineering
hitch in
with a dim expression, she muttered, “I’ll go up and
him.”
Cicely this time, accompanying her
quiet on the weekend.
at the door
pairs of eyes turned to her
and Danielle stood before Seth, seemingly
with him.
was in disarray, the computer tower and
strewn across the
first glance was towards Seth, whose
coldness and ferocity. “Sleep well last night?” he asked,
raspy to the extreme.
tighter and after
to speak. “Seth, I didn’t go home
late…”
you spent the night partying with Emiliana that
home?”
never wavered from her, each question
something else.
her lip and shook
he looked away.
back, there’s no issue. I’m busy now,
leave.”
the chaos of the office. As she was about to open her
Patty’s shrill voice suddenly cut through the
what we just told
dumb?”
sabotaged your two-year project! Doesn’t this mess prove
confidential data is gone, and the computer is trashed. All your
go under because of her. This
woman!”
she turned to Patty
did you
clenched in anger, pointed at her, her eyes red with
admits it and you still don’t believe
Danielle, her gaze sharp. “I’m
know about
slap, Patty’s hand struck Cicely’s face
violently, and he abruptly stood
heard the commotion, burst through the door
him.
in a rage beyond control, glared
this? After what you’ve done, you still
shameless!”
icy. “Madam, the situation isn’t
down.”
do you
a phone from her bag –
pressing something,
Seth.
began to play, its clarity allowing one to imagine
expression at the time:
cold and aloof. The most important things to
to him
we’re set to
leave me,
wouldn’t just walk
day her desire
was no way for
were set
transferring Diaz International to my name a few
software development fails and the company
International would easily fall into my
Ellis Group, Diaz International is small fry. Whether it
value is irrelevant to
is to completely destroy this program. Diaz International
Ellis
fall into my hands.
proof of who did it. He has no reason
If I’m to destroy, I’ll do it thoroughly. I
files with a regular USB,
the point of
virus I had specially prepared
the computer, it
computer’s operational data, resulting in both data
hardware failure.”
…
was interspersed, but it
a color to it, went completely pale
Instinctively, she looked towards Seth, who was also
eyes slowly morphing from grim to mocking, and he even
done a thorough job
frantically and approached him, “It’s
away hers as she reached for
staggered, steadying herself on
it?” Seth eyed her coldly, his
inch by
you wanted to get your hands on Diaz International, and you’ve even
I thought you were just being flippant, Cicely. All
dull, and you can’t stand to look at a
but you’re oddly fascinated by those
scurrying off to the
with that,
words on the recording would you say are not
one thing. Without surveillance, I’d have
too. There’s no surveillance, just
side, her gaze fixed on a crack in the floor,
looked
Cicely was done for.
terrible, her head was spinning, and her
recording, but none of it was
Ray.”
his eyes and turned to look at her,
the desk beside him. It seemed like he was thinking, trying to
for a
moment, Danielle suddenly spoke up, “If it was just
a flash drive would
him that he might get caught, and to destroy the
to do it? Don’t you see the
words?”
one sentence from Danielle completely overturned
explanations.
when he looked up again, they
and cold state. Just as Cicely was about to bring up
flash drive, his look
time, four uniformed officers stepped
said, “You guys are from
maliciously
the evidence is irrefutable.
preparing to
he turned to look at Patty,
Ray’s phone over
words ‘Department of Justice,’ Cicely’s
as she looked towards the tall, imposing man
Seth caught the
at the four figures before him. “The situation hasn’t
investigated.”
her angry voice piercing through the ears
evidence is irrefutable, what’s there to be
go soft just because this woman’s put on a
she’s practically driven Diaz International into
or me
at Seth, “I’ve already alerted the
just how cruel and shameless she
Enter title…
brows knitted together
the Department of Justice said with a
mentioned that the matter
can assist in the inquiry to ensure absolute
Cicely is indeed innocent, we will ensure she is
unharmed.”
a lawsuit against her immediately!” The malice
unchecked, her emotions and
gaze turned, deep and tranquil as
shook her head, tears swirling in her eyes. “I don’t
wrong, Seth. Only the tainted are taken there. I can’t bear
and I wouldn’t do anything to bring shame to
Ellis family.”
were fearful and helpless, laden with desperate
her so terrified. Not
for a long moment, taking in every
spoke slowly, his voice deep and
a misunderstanding. Is that
nodded, tears spilling over with the motion. “I wouldn’t harm
have to
him; he had
tight with tension.
he paused, turning his head away
he spoke again, his voice was like a sword cleaving
sharp. “Take
spot. Her wide eyes stared blankly
tears that suddenly fell
she was a
never imagined that one day these words
the two Justice Department agents
either side of her, ready to escort her
still, her gaze desolate except for
face. She looked at Seth silently
away, seemingly in a
their path. “You can’t
hope
asking Ms. Cicely to
speak, a deep and
with an investigation doesn’t
taking her
gaze trembled sharply as she lifted
in front of her, his expression
indomitable authority.
“Mr. Ellis.”
of fury, “What in the world
a married
in marital
agents knew the chairman of the Ellis family, of course,
some respect. But now that they
parties were exerting pressure, they couldn’t
they hesitated, Charlie walked in.
him up here. Let him personally testify whether
Patty demanded, unfazed by Creighton’s
like they’d been granted a
bring the accused.
laughter. “Ms. Cicely,
us could escape, huh? And to think,
believed Seth
needing further explanation, his words were a death sentence
Cicely.
Ray, and suddenly realized how
“Trying to win over Danielle by fighting for everything
a man? Should I say you’re devoted
there, Cicely’s composure returned. The
settle. Still,
it
“It’s thanks to you I got this
a pleasure, Ms. Cicely, truly. Without
life. I really should thank you, so feel
or
out a cold laugh. How wonderful. Even now,
life for Danielle. Even if Danielle’s role
shamelessly clawed her way into
still supported her.
as Ray was concerned, everything
deserved.
“Take him away.”
again within her. It felt as
her heart had been blown to pieces, leaving her bleeding
her expression
detachment.
the grain
distant. “Ray’s unwavering trust and support for Danielle
clearly
emotion, resigned to
heart skipped a beat. So many people around, yet her words
intended for him alone.
him for not believing in her. What good was
eyes were watching, so many people waiting? Could his lone trust
the prejudice against her?
Cicely—was she to
in the
the span of a heartbeat, his eyes darkened, his
Cicely’s retreating back with
Department of Justice
escort everyone out and
Would that be
strode over, snatched back the phone
over, and hit play again, specifically
Read The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride Chapter 2041-2050
Read The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride novel Chapter 2041-2050
The Read The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride by Novelxo.com has been updated to chapter Chapter 2041-2050 .
In Chapter 2041-2050 of the The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride series, The passage describes a conflict between Chloe and Keira. Keira has hurt Chloe, and Lance Olson is caught in the middle. An old lady named Hannah observes the situation, and she wants to meet Chloe due to her good nature. However, there is a potential issue with her grandson's arrival......... Will this Chapter 2041-2050 author Novelxo.com mention any details. Follow Chapter 2041-2050 and the latest season of this series at Novelxo.com.
The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride Chapter 2041-2050
The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride novel Chapter 2041-2050