The Enticing CEO’s Chosen Bride

The old lady’s eyes widened with surprise. “Morning sickness? These days,

young folks don’t even know when they’re pregnant?” Cicely just stared blankly

for a long moment before slowly shaking her head. “No…”

The old lady furrowed her brows and took Cicely’s arm, resting her fingers

gently on her wrist. “I’ve been a midwife all my life, brought six of my own into

the world, and my kids have given me a baker’s dozen of grandbabies. I’ve seen

my share of expectant mothers, and if I can’t spot a bun in the oven, I might as

well hang up my hat. There you have it, darling, a baby pulse. Barely six weeks

along, and you’re feeling the pangs a bit early, aren’t you?”

Cicely felt dazed as her hand instinctively touched her flat belly. She felt like she

was in a trance.

Enter title…

Why did everything have to come crashing down today?

The old lady had seen all sorts of reactions from mothers-to-be when they found

out about their pregnancy.

Cicely’s look was nothing new to her.d2

Chuckling softly, she patted Cicely’s shoulder. “Bless your heart, go tell your

folks. And if you don’t take my word for it, get a thorough checkup with them. But

I’m telling you, you’re in the family way. Here, have one of these. My rascal of a

grandson thought he’d play a prank on me with these sour candies. And he gave

me so many all at once.”

As she spoke, the old lady fished out a handful of candies and handed them to

Cicely.

Cicely wandered over to the sink in a daze, rinsed her mouth, and mechanically

unwrapped a piece of candy, popping it into her mouth.

It was sour.

She never had a taste for it before, but now, it seemed more delightful than even

her favorite comfort food.

*

Cicely, who hadn’t planned on resting, went upstairs to find an apple in the fruit

bowl of her room. She clumsily peeled it and ate it, then curled up on the bed,

hand on her belly, and closed her eyes.

Half an hour later, she found herself back outside the emergency room.

Issac still hadn’t emerged. Brody sat there, head lowered. Cicely’s silent

approach allowed her to see a tear drop to the floor beside him. Her heart

clenched painfully, but she swallowed back the rising sorrow and took a seat

next to him.

Brody finally noticed her, jerking upright and frantically wiping his tear-streaked

face. Turning to Cicely, he didn’t catch her eye as she stared at the clock above

the emergency room door.

Brody was relieved she hadn’t seen him in that vulnerable moment. “He’s still in

there. Miss, why don’t you rest a bit more?”

“I managed to sleep for half an hour, and I even had an apple.” She figured the

best way to repay everyone’s care was to look after herself. Apart from that, she

didn’t know what else she could do.

Brody managed a relieved smile. “A bit more rest would do you good.”

Cicely couldn’t muster a smile, but her lips curled into a semblance of one.

“When Issac comes out, I’ll make sure to sleep even longer.”

Brody just chuckled, “As long as you get enough rest.”

Cicely didn’t respond, just fished another candy from her pocket and unwrapped

it.

*

Evening turned to night, and eight long hours passed with the red light outside

the emergency room still burning.

Nurses and doctors came and went, the urgency of their movements a clear

sign that the situation was dire.

With each ticking second, Cicely’s despair deepened, and Brody’s forced

composure also began to crumble.

*

The Ellis Group was indeed in chaos, because Seth didn’t arrive at the hospital

until past eight.

Cicely was no different than a living corpse now. Brody was pale and shaking,

barely able to keep himself together, let alone offer Cicely any comfort.

The emergency room doors swung open and shut, with medics rushing back

and forth, signaling a critical phase in the operation.

Cicely sat motionless, her mind blank with shock.

Charlie, witnessing the scene, felt his heart pounding as if it would burst from his

chest. What would happen if Issac couldn’t make it?

As that thought gripped him, the light outside the emergency room dimmed.

…

Silence engulfed the hallway.

Brody slowly rose from his seat, only to collapse weakly to the floor. Charlie

rushed to help him up.

The door to the emergency room opened, and several doctors appeared. Brody

stumbled towards them. “Doctor, how’s my boy…”

Cicely clasped her hands tightly, her gaze fixed on the doorway. She watched a

doctor remove his mask and shake his head with regret. “I’m sorry, we did

everything we could.”

It felt like a bomb went off in Cicely’s head. She swayed, nearly fainting.

Seth, his face grim, quickly wrapped his arms around her. “Cicely!”

The doctor continued, “The blast caused too much internal damage. He’s got

maybe 48 hours. Spend what time you can with him.”

Brody staggered, supported only by Charlie’s strength.

“No, it can’t be. Issac… no, no, no.” Cicely stared into the void in Seth’s arms,

shaking her head and muttering under her breath. It wasn’t loud, but Seth felt as

if he was shaken to the core.

“Cicely, come on!”

At this point, Issac was wheeled out, Cicely forcefully turned in Seth’s arms,

staring at the man on the mobile bed full of tubes. She struggled to rush

forward. “Issac, don’t leave… you promised to stay with me… I’m scared, I’m

scared alone, Issac… don’t leave me…”

“You have not worn the dress I gave you for my wedding… you have not seen

me in a wedding dress… you said you would protect me for a lifetime… Issac…

please don’t leave me… I’m afraid… please…”

Charlie watched this scene, his eyes also welling up with tears.

Seth held Cicely tight, a wave of fear he had never experienced before welling

up within him. “Cicely, I’m here, I’ll be with ytou…”

“Get out!!!” As Issac was wheeled away, Cicely turned and slapped Seth.

“Ma’am!” cried Charlie in alarm.

Cicely turned to him in disarray, tears covering her entire face. There was thick

hatred in her eyes, and every word she said was like a knife edge.

As if she had realized something in an instant, she suppressed all her emotions,

staring at him, “What can you do if you’re here? What can you do? Can you

save him? If you can’t, get out!”

A flush spread across Seth’s cold face as he looked at her holding back her

already erupting anger, engulfed in overwhelming grief, and coldly watcjing him.

He was surprised by the depth of Cicely’s feelings for Issac. Underneath their

customary and bland interactions, such deep feelings were hidden. “So…” When

he spoke again, his tight voice was hoarse, “You’re saying if Issac really dies,

you won’t want me either?”

Cicely clenched her hand tightly, her fingertips piercing her palm. “Yes! If Issac

dies, I don’t want you either!”

…

The air around them seemed to be vacuumed out. Seth stared at her face, his

eyes dark as a night sky heavy with storm clouds, obscure and profound.

Charlie felt suffocated at his side, as if an unseen force was crushing his chest.

No one knew what Seth was thinking. Whether he wanted to strangle the

woman before him or simply cut ties with her once and for all.

But Cicely didn’t want to waste another minute with this man. He wouldn’t kill

her, not now at least. And if he wanted to break things off, she couldn’t care less.

She struggled to free herself from his embrace and turned to leave with cold

indifference, but a strong force yanked her back with vigor.

Seth held her wrists above her head, his dark eyes locking onto hers from a

closer distance. His voice was more hoarse than ever. He watched her for a

long while before slowly speaking, “Cicely, I’m asking you one more time, and

think carefully before you answer. The doctor has already signed Issac’s death

warrant. Are you sure you want to do the same to us?”

Cicely’s heart clenched, and an uncontrollable heavy pain spread a little bit

upwards towards her eyes. She had already given him an answer once, but this

time, to repeat it, the words stuck in her throat, unable to be voiced. If she really

said it, it might be the end of whatever was between her and Seth.

However, if Issac was truly gone, could the two of them pretend nothing had

happened and stay together?

No, they couldn’t.

“Without Issac to witness our wedding, I’d rather not have it. So yes, you’re right,

Seth. Unless Issac can pull through, the day he stops breathing is the day I file

for divorce from you.”Cicely fought to keep her words coherent, each syllable felt like she was

severing the cord that she had nourished with her own blood between them, the

pain was visceral. Seth’s grip on her wrist was so strong it felt like her bones

might shatter, and she winced in agony.

Instead, he just looked at her expression and suddenly sneered.

She was in pain now? He wanted to know how deep her pain ran, and to

compare it to the torment he was enduring now. But in the end, seeing her pale,

sweat-beaded face, he eased his grip. He still held her firmly, staring deeply into

her eyes before he finally spoke a single word.

“Fine.”

Enter title…

Cicely’s heart felt like plastic on an open flame, shriveling instantly.

Seth was an enigma, and the nature of his relationship with Cicely—whether it

was affection, love, or indifference—was beyond Charlie’s understanding. It

seemed to Charlie that Mr. Diaz could act the same way with any other woman,

if he wanted.d2

But which woman could make Mr. Diaz willing to do so?

Charlie didn’t understand, but he sensed that the current standoff between the

two would eventually brew into a profound regret.

“Mr. Diaz.” Charlie tried to remind Seth to stay calm, knowing that making

decisions in the heat of the moment was a bad idea.

Cicely, enduring the sharp pain in her heart, slowly nodded, “I’ll prepare the

divorce papers. The damage to Diaz International’s operations is indeed my

fault. As compensation, I’ll transfer all of my Ellis Group shares to you.”

Charlie was visibly shocked.

All of her shares in Diaz International? That could be enough to take over

several Diaz Internationals.

Seth smirked, “Seems like I’m getting the better end of the deal after all. But

Issac isn’t dead yet, so this sweet deal is just a thought for now.”

Cicely took a deep breath, “I’ll have the divorce agreement prepared in

advance.”

Seth watched her silently for a moment longer, then finally let go of her hand.

“But before that, Cicely, don’t forget you’re still my wife. You and your well-being

are still my responsibility. Issac dies the day after tomorrow, and until then, you’d

better swallow your food and water, even if you have to force it down. I’ll even

tie you to the bed if I have to make sure you get some sleep. So, it’s in your best

interest to behave and not provoke me.”

Cicely’s eyelashes trembled.

“Charlie!”

Charlie snapped to attention, “Yes, Mr. Diaz.”

“Take her to see Issac, and in half an hour, set the nightcap in front of her and

watch her finish it.”

Charlie glanced at Cicely, torn, but obliged. “Understood.”

With that said, Seth turned to leave.

Cicely watched his assertive retreating figure, her clenched fists tightening and

then releasing. Finally, she lowered her gaze, concealing the emotions in her

eyes, and walked away.

Issac had been taken to the ICU.

Brody stood by, looking at his unconscious son on the hospital bed, tears

streaming down his face.

Cicely stumbled as she entered the room but managed to steady herself with

Charlie’s help. She stared at the man on the bed, tears falling uncontrollably. All

the tears of her life seemed to want to dry up in just one day.

Charlie assisted Cicely closer to the lifeless Issac, and suddenly, she knelt

before Brody.

“Miss!” Brody’s voice quivered as he tried to lift her up.

However, Cicely grabbed his hand instead. She lowered her head, biting her lip

tightly to keep the sadness coursing through her body down, and to keep her

voice from sounding so shaking. “Brody, I’m so sorry.”

“It’s not your fault, miss.”

Cicely shook her head, her voice tense with endless regret and sorrow. “It is all

my fault, Brody. It is all my fault.”

Brody closed his eyes in resignation.

Charlie could see that Brody still harbored regrets, and he still blamed Cicely.

Regardless of the reasons, Issac’s condition had something to do with her. Even

if it was about duty or responsibility, the only son he had was about to be lost.

People might not believe it if you said Cicely was well-behaved and

understanding, but they would believe if you said she was spoiled and petulant.

Brody had watched Cicely grow up, pampered and loved. She was sensible,

indeed, but she was also petulant.

Yet he couldn’t bring himself to truly blame her. Everyone was a victim in their

own right.

“I’m sorry, Brody. I’m sorry.” Cicely’s slender shoulders shook as she repeated

her apology.

Brody heaved a deep sigh, then knelt beside her. “Miss, Issac did the right thing.

It’s just fate.”

Cicely took a deep breath, struggling to stand and helping Brody up with

Charlie’s assistance, then guiding him to sit down.

The busy medical staff approached to remind them, “You can stay at most 30

minutes tonight.”

*

Seth made his way straight to the hospital’s park, stopping in front of a row of

cypress trees.

The events of the entire day replayed in his mind. In the end, it all came down to

Cicely’s every expression, and every word she spoke.

She seemed to wield a hundred ways to inflict pain, sharp, keen, and unerring.

If Issac died, she didn’t want anything to do with him. The one who feared he

would leave was her, and ironically, the one who didn’t want him was also her.

A low, cool chuckle escaped his throat as he took out his phone with fingertips

white from the cold. He dialed a number and waited for the call to connect, the

phone pressed to his ear.

The summer night’s warm breeze brushed by, people in the park walked and

chatted, but in his world, there was only the sound of the call waiting tone.

“Hello?” A deep, steady voice eventually answered.

Seth slowly began, “Damon, I need a favor.”

“A favor?” The voice on the other end fell silent for a split second, as if the words

were unfamiliar, especially coming from Seth. “I’ve been following the news. If

you want my help with Diaz International, no problem.”

“I’ll handle Diaz International myself.”

Damon’s lips curled into a smirk. This was the Seth he knew—oozing pride and

arrogance from every pore. But if that were the case, what could possibly make

him swallow his pride and come asking for a favor?

Damon’s interest was piqued, a rare occurrence. “So, what’s up?”

“Help me save someone.”

“You’re asking for help, which means this isn’t going to be easy.”

“That’s right.”

“And if we fail?”

Seth’s expression turned to stone. “Failure is not an option.”

No matter what. At any cost. Issac couldn’t die.

Half an hour later, Seth found his way to the VIP hospital room. Charlie’s

reaction was more relaxed than expected.

Cicely was perched on a sofa outside the room, nibbling on a plate of neatly

sliced fruit. It was her request, and Charlie had personally peeled and sliced it

for her.

“Mr. Diaz.”

Seth’s gaze shifted from Cicely, his tone as flat as his expression. “I told you to

prepare dinner, and you serve her this?”

“My apologies, Mr. Diaz,” Charlie hastily replied. “Dinner will be just a little while

longer. The missus wanted something from Carly’s kitchen, and I’ve already

informed Carly. She’s on it.”

Seth was surprised. He hadn’t expected her to ask for anything to eat. It wasn’t

like her usual style, but it did remind him of the Cicely who never let herself be

slighted.

His expression softened slightly as he took off his coat and approached the

sofa, tossing it over the backrest.

Cicely didn’t look up from her phone, occasionally picking up a piece of fruit and

chewing with a crunch. He sat down beside her, watching as her plate of fruit

neared empty yet she showed no sign of stopping. He finally spoke up. “You still

need to eat dinner.”

Cicely kept eating, “I’ll eat dinner and fruit. I’ll eat whatever I want. When did you

start dictating my diet? Or is it that you think you’ve only got two days left to

make me miserable?”

Her words were laced with venom, dripping with sarcasm. In the end, no one

could outdo Cicely when it came to making others miserable.

Charlie glanced at Seth, trying to gauge his reaction. Charlie had to admit that

Seth was truly good at hiding his emotions. If anyone else were in Mr. Diaz’s

shoes, they’d probably be angry, but Seth remained impassive, simply leaning

back and pinching the bridge of his nose. “Better to eat less at night. Overeating

will make you uncomfortable, and it will disturb my rest.”

Cicely paused, “If you’re so concerned, keep your distance. The bed at home

must be comfortable, or anywhere else for that matter. Don’t worry. Even if I’m in

agony, I won’t bother you.”

Seth dropped his hands and looked at Charlie, “How many servings did Carly

prepare?”

Charlie hesitated, “Enough for two.”

“Hmm, tell her to pack some extra, I’m starving.”

“Will do.”

Cicely’s eyes darkened.

Before long, Carly had the food delivered.

Charlie helped set it up, and as Cicely put away her phone and tried to stand,

Seth picked up a bowl of soup and said flatly, “If you don’t want me to force-feed

you or make idle conversation, sit down and eat. You’re the last person who

should be wasting energy today.”

Charlie handed her the utensils in timely fashion, “Ma’am, these are all dishes

you requested. Don’t let anger spoil your appetite.”

A flicker of annoyance crossed Cicely’s face, but she took the utensils anyway.

Seth and Charlie were right.

They ate in silence, neither offering food to the other, their utensils never

crossing paths.

Seth finished first and stood up, checking the time and glancing at Charlie.

Charlie quickly exited the room.

“Take a shower after you eat.” Seth looked down at Cicely, still leisurely enjoying

her meal, and with that, he took his coat and left the room.

When Charlie stepped out, he was met by two imposing strangers, standing

rigidly on either side of the room, obviously there to guard the Cicely’s room.

Startled, he saw Seth emerge behind them. “Sir, what is—”

Seth closed the door and gave him a level look. “Keep a close eye on her,

especially don’t let her step out of this room.”

Charlie was puzzled. Watching the lady was a given, but not allowing her to

leave and bringing in bodyguards, was this some kind of house arrest?

“If you can’t manage that, consider donating your heart and lungs to Issac.”

Charlie shuddered. Seth’s expression was dead serious.

“Understood.”

*

Cicely finished her meal with no intention of showering. She wanted to check on

her father and see Issac again, but as soon as she opened the door, her vision

blurred, and two arms barred her way.

Regaining her composure, she faced the two men in black suits, their

expressions blank as they stood in her path. Her brow furrowed as she turned to

Charlie.

“What’s all this?”

Charlie’s scalp tingled with anxiety, “For your safety, ma’am.”

“Really?” Cicely raised an eyebrow coolly, “Is Danielle and her mother out for

revenge, planning to come kill me?”

Charlie had never known how to handle the little princess of P City, and now he

was even more at a loss. “It is not like that, ma’am.”

“No? Aside from those two lunatics, I really can’t think of anyone else with such

a grudge against me.”

Charlie was at a loss for words.

On reflection, even though the P City princess was known for being haughty and

proud, it seemed no one had really crossed her. Perhaps it was out of respect

for her status as the heiress of the Ellis family, but he couldn’t fathom who would

pose a threat to her. It seemed that the only people who really couldn’t stand her

were Ms. Danielle and Mr. Diaz’s mother. But after all, they were both saved by

Mrs. Cicely, and it wouldn’t be right for them to cause her any trouble at this

time. So what exactly Mr. Diaz meant by his actions, Charlie didn’t understand.

“For safety’s sake, Mrs. Cicely, you should go back and rest.”

“And what if I don’t?”

Charlie sighed, “Then I’m sorry, ma’am, but I must insist.”

Cicely’s face was set in a frown as she attempted to leave, but the two men

swiftly moved to block her, standing as two unyielding walls, determined not to

let her step out of the hospital room. Knowing that forcing her way out would be

futile, Cicely picked up her phone and dialed Seth’s number.

It took a while for Seth to answer, his voice low and indifferent, rippling through

the line without a hint of surprise. “Yes?”

“I want to go out.”

“Have you taken a shower? If so, go to bed and sleep.”

Cicely closed her eyes, taking a deep breath, “Seth, what do you mean?”

“Take a shower and get some rest.”

“Seth!”

“Since you’re calling me now, it proves my arrangements are correct. Don’t

waste my time. You don’t like talking to me, do you? But if you’ve changed your

mind, I can come right back and keep you company.”

Cicely hung up without another word.

Seth pocketed his phone and stepped out from the top floor’s emergency exit.

The ground below was alight with the constant flicker of neon signs and the red

streams of traffic.

The city of P remained vibrant with life, and everything that had happened today

was swallowed up in the urban pulse, as if leaving no trace.

*

Back in her hospital room, Cicely had taken a shower, her hair still damp.

Seth walked in with his jacket draped over his wrist, tossed it onto the couch,

and headed straight for her.

Cicely was standing by the window, sipping water and gazing out at the night

skyline that belonged uniquely to P City, lost in thought. She was aware of

Seth’s presence when he entered the room and even as he approached her. His

tall and straight silhouette reflected on the glass.

He reached out to touch her hair, “Should I dry it for you?”

Cicely swatted his hand away. “What is all this?” Cicely spoke slowly, her tone

flat, “Are you afraid that I’m going to wait for an opportunity to flee the city after I

ruin your program? Or do you think I’ll choose to go into hiding because I don’t

want to divorce you?”

“You can rest easy. My dad and Issac are here; even if I were guilty, I wouldn’t

leave them. And if it’s the latter, since I’m the one who initiated this, I surely don’t

need to be so cowardly as to back out now.”

Seth glanced at her coolly, then turned and walked into the bathroom, only to

come out with a hairdryer and approach her again. “Sit on the bed.”

Cicely’s delicate hand clenched the water glass tightly. His nonchalant attitude

was infuriating. Unable to contain her temper, she threw the warm water from

the glass in Seth’s face.

“Who are you playing the good guy for? Afraid I won’t write your shares into the

divorce agreement? Don’t worry, I will give them to you. Everyone knows my

character; the Ellis Group is doomed under my watch. Rather than letting others

scheme and take it from me, I’d rather give it to you. At least Diaz International

will have some hope. Even if you don’t covet it, I was going to give it to you

eventually. Why else would I let you willingly manage the Ellis Group? I’ve given

you the opportunity to covet what I have from the start, and after suffering for so

long, it’s time you got what you wanted.”

His expensive light-colored shirt was soaked, drops of water still gathering and

trickling down his cool, indifferent face. Even after being splashed, Seth had no

reaction, but after hearing Cicely’s words, his eyes, veiled with droplets,

suddenly narrowed. “It’s time we got what we wanted?”

Cicely laughed sarcastically, “Well, it’s because of your mother, isn’t it? She

hates me because my father loved my mother, and because your father loved

her too. What other reason could there be for her to agree to let her son marry

me?”

Seth’s expression darkened further, “Did you hear something?”

“The plots you and your mother conjured together? It’s quite remarkable that I

would get wind of it. So, why then? Well, Charlie mentioned it was for my safety.

Is your mother sick again, ready to burst in here and stab me at any moment?”

For the first time, Seth’s expression could be described as furious, “Cicely, even

if you’re trying to provoke me, I won’t let you go out tonight. We can separate,

sure, but only after Issac’s dead the day after tomorrow.”

The water stopped dripping from his face, and with that, Seth took her hand and

led her to the bed. “You’ve said too much tonight. If you want to keep talking,

after I dry your hair, I’ll listen for as long as you want.”

Cicely closed her eyes, letting him dry her hair. “So, I was that annoying before.

You have quite the patience.”

Seth paused for a moment, then continued to run his fingers through her scalp,

her soft hair slipping through the warm air from the dryer. Afterward, he went

into the bathroom himself.

Cicely opened the door to the room, and the two men were still stationed

outside. Charlie leaned against the wall, scrolling through his phone. Seeing

Cicely, he suddenly stood up straight. “Ma’am.”

Cicely looked impassive, “I want some milk.”

Charlie was briefly taken aback, then quickly responded, “Right away, ma’am.”

Cicely closed the door again.

When Seth came out of the shower, Charlie was just knocking on the door,

holding a glass of milk.

“It’s for Ms. Cicely.”

Seth withdrew his gaze and remained silent.

Cicely leaned against the headboard, browsing her phone. The news was full of

the day’s events.

The issues with Diaz International.

The status of the Ellis family.

The condition of Mr. Ellis.

The latest developments of Danielle.

She followed the trending topics, one by one.

The issue of Diaz International was further investigated.

The Ellis Group was holding steady, thanks to Seth having taken the reins for a

while now. With him at the helm, things were relatively stable.

Her dad’s surgery had been a roaring success.

Danielle’s face was ruined, her body riddled with shards of glass, large patches

of skin burnt away. But she had dumb luck on her side. She had been close to

the window when the blast threw her out, landing her outside where she was

scorched for a good while. At least she was still breathing, her organs

miraculously unharmed.

How did that woman always manage to land on her feet? It’s the good ones that

die young, while the wicked seem to live forever.

Cicely had enough of the screen and got up, grabbing the glass of milk. Charlie

was thoughtful as ever; the milk was the perfect temperature. She tilted her

head back, took a gulp, and then walked over to the bed, pulling back the

covers to slide in.

Seth was outside on a call, seemingly about the Ellis Group.

When he returned, he climbed into bed, pulling her into his embrace. Cicely

wasn’t asleep, and she didn’t open her eyes in his arms. “We’re on the brink of

divorce. You find this amusing?”

“Not in the least. Maybe I should pin you down and have my way with you a few

times? Would that be amusing?”

Cicely’s eyes fluttered, her arm resting on her waist, palm on her belly, and she

fell silent.

Today had been draining, and even though nothing had turned out as she had

hoped, exhaustion took over, and Cicely quickly fell asleep. Her shallow breaths

danced on his chest, the familiar soft warmth in his arms, yet something felt

different.

She had actually brought up divorce.

Seth gazed down at her smooth forehead and curled lashes, his arms around

her tightening slightly. After a moment, he lowered his head and kissed her

forehead.

*

The next day, under Seth’s supervision, Cicely had breakfast and changed into

clean clothes. “I want to go see my dad.”

“You can visit him for 30 minutes this afternoon.”

“I’m going to see Issac first.”

Seth remained silent.

Cicely clenched her fists, looking up at Seth with a cold indifference. “You’re not

planning to keep me cooped up here for two days, are you?”

After a brief silence, Seth slipped into the clean clothes Charlie had laid out for

him and said indifferently, “I’ll come with you.”

Cicely didn’t bother to respond; it was pointless.

At the door, two men in black suits stood guard as Charlie lingered nearby, but

with Seth by her side, no one stopped her.

When they reached the ICU where Issac was supposed to be, there was no one

there. Issac wasn’t in his bed, and Brody wasn’t by his side. The entire ICU had

been cleared out, devoid of any trace of its previous occupants.

Cicely’s gaze landed on the empty scene, her mind buzzing, and then

everything went blank.Seth stood behind her, his expression somber as he watched her silhouette.

Her head turned slowly from side to side, disbelief etched on her face as she

took in her surroundings, unable to accept what had happened. After what felt

like an eternity, she spun around, her eyes bloodshot with distress. “Issac’s

dead?”

She spoke directly, confronting the cruel, ruthless reality she least wanted to

face.

Seth’s deep-set eyes flickered slightly as he replied, his voice cool, “I don’t

know.”

Enter title…

Cicely suddenly stepped toward him, and up close, the resentment in her gaze

was unmistakable. She pushed against his chest with both hands.

A woman’s strength isn’t much. Seth thought she might slap him in fury, as she

had done the day before, but instead she pushed him, and caught off guard, he

swayed almost imperceptibly.d2

“Is Issac

met her gaze,

eyes widened, holding back restraint and forbearance.

go

dinner, take a shower, and get

gone.” She cut him off, her eyes shimmering with

unshed tears.

his voice suddenly turning cold, “He

drifted upward, studying Seth’s stern face in

out her phone and

the phone to

off the moment it started to ring. She tried again, with the

After five or six attempts, she gave up and walked

in chaos, but the director could only

her to calm down.

he? How can

taken by his father. We

what good are you? You can’t save a life, and you can’t stop someone

point of this

only let her vent her frustration. Seth stood by, allowing her

exhausted and without

like a zombie devoid

she mechanically dialed Brody’s

the result was the same. The call

began.

her hand resting on

to be

and sorrow were palpable.

pulled her into his arms, his

of her head, his deep and gentle voice emanating from above

go have lunch.”

her, making no attempt to

about a minute of silence, she spoke

Tom Yum soup. I don’t want meat

restaurants outside.”

surprised. Her current calm and

far too out

closed her

her up. Cicely did not refuse, her body showing

on him, her eyes

instructed Charlie

the bed, and Seth handed her a glass of water, which

accepted. After she drank, she nestled into the

later, Charlie brought

ate with a slow, distinctive elegance. Eventually, she set down

mouth with a napkin,

you not want to divorce

grip on his cup

the couch, her

taking Issac

I’ll just think he’s left, not that

divorce you over him?”

setting the glass down, he said, “It

might be right.”

tugged at her lip, “Why? What else do you want?

good enough? Or is it because I was the

a feeling of being dumped,

you can’t get over it,

was tightly clenched, his thin lips pressed into a straight line. He

a long while, he hooked

in front of him. “So no matter what, this

to be ended

lips curled in a sardonic smile, “Can’t you just

me?”

wanted

you for

eyes, tinged with a cold

no

a knock on the door interrupted

in, “Mr. Diaz, the

you; it can’t be delayed any

of the previous day

and

work phone had been bombarded with calls, including the one

Diaz had first gone to the Ellis Group, then straight

hospital, staying by his wife’s side, cool and composed as if

believe Mr. Diaz was unaware of how

situation truly was.

“Okay.”

closed her eyes against

couch.

straightened up and grabbed his jacket from the couch. “I’ve got

out there, and you won’t gain anything from

hospital to avoid unnecessary

silent. She could hear Seth’s

a close eye on

anywhere but the hospital.”

“Understood.”

*

clear the table and

remnants of the meal.

left the ward. Two

most natural thing

Creighton’s intensive care

waited outside for

could enter.

still not optimistic.

past the critical forty-eight hours to be truly

and thanked the doctor. She

and rested her cheek against

pushing down the sourness and

inside her.

about what was said in those recordings. Yes, I

Joel gave me that USB drive.

bit special. It can fry a computer, but

onto the drive and hides automatically. As soon as

team are working hard

retrieve the

I’m your daughter, after

I agreed to go to the justice department because I

they dare to bring me

I prove I’m clear, I’ll tear the place

plenty of trouble growing up, but I’ve never actually dismantled

department. The thought of it makes my hands itch to do

to deal with later, and

don’t want me to get arrested, I won’t.

Dad, you’ve got to recover quickly and be my

support.”

up and wiped away the tears at the corner of

graying hair. Her heart was full of pain and tenderness.

had so much to say to someone, so very

to talk about Issac’s situation, her

pregnant. But everyone who should

Even if someone died, it was just a

excitement for them.

person’s tragedy becomes another’s

is infuriating.

her would react

she couldn’t bring herself to tell

these issues.

meant to her,

ill-timed a pregnancy would be now. Creighton

in Seth too, so she couldn’t tell

Creighton about trivial things, carefully avoiding any mention

of the

ICU doctor came in to

to the hospital’s park and

fence. Beyond the fence was the parking lot.

about was hoping for Creighton to

anything beyond that.

at the distant

large bags and happy faces, others

she recognized a familiar figure carrying things from

hospital. At that moment, her phone

He asked

narrowed. Danielle.Seth stood behind her, his expression somber as he watched her

turned slowly from side to side, disbelief

accept

she spun around, her

dead?”

confronting the cruel, ruthless reality

face.

eyes flickered slightly as he replied, his voice

know.”

Enter title…

stepped toward him, and up close, the resentment

pushed against

isn’t much. Seth thought she

the day before, but instead she pushed him, and caught

swayed almost imperceptibly.d2

persisted, “Is

her gaze,

back restraint

go

needed to have dinner, take a shower, and

She cut him off, her eyes shimmering with

unshed tears.

darkened, his voice suddenly turning cold, “He wasn’t

gaze drifted upward, studying Seth’s stern face

her, she pulled out

phone

was cut off the moment it started to ring. She

six attempts, she gave up and walked

office was in chaos, but the director could

her to calm down.

he? How can

was taken by his father. We couldn’t

are you? You can’t save a life, and you

What’s the point of

let her vent her

In the end, exhausted and without any

a zombie devoid

the hallway wall, she mechanically dialed

the same. The call

began.

hand resting on her eyes, her

a ball. She seemed to be crying,

and sorrow were palpable.

approached her and gently pulled her into his

head, his deep and gentle voice

go have lunch.”

her, making no attempt to struggle

but after about a minute of silence, she

Tom Yum soup. I don’t want meat

restaurants outside.”

calm and

hysteria, seemed far

closed her eyes,

up. Cicely did not refuse, her

she leaned on him,

Charlie to

and Seth handed her

After she drank, she nestled into

later, Charlie

a slow, distinctive elegance. Eventually, she

with a napkin, and looked at Seth

you not want

on his cup

leaning on the couch, her tone as cold and indifferent

taking Issac away, making me

that he’s

divorce you over him?”

the glass down, he said,

might be right.”

lip, “Why? What else do you want? Aren’t

hands good enough? Or is it because

giving you a feeling of being dumped,

you can’t get

tightly clenched, his thin lips pressed

a long while, he hooked

him. “So no

be ended

a sardonic smile, “Can’t you just pretend you

me?”

can we pretend? The fact is you wanted to dump me. Why would I

you for no

tinged with a cold smile, grew

“For no reason,

knock on the door interrupted them, and Seth turned to open

“Mr. Diaz, the company

you; it can’t

day

and executives

been bombarded with calls, including the one Mr.

handed off to him. Mr. Diaz had first

side, cool and

believe Mr. Diaz

situation truly was.

“Okay.”

gaze and slowly closed her eyes against the back of

couch.

up and grabbed his jacket

and you won’t gain anything from roaming

in the hospital to avoid

hear Seth’s footsteps fading

voice at the door. “Keep a

anywhere but the hospital.”

“Understood.”

*

in to clear the table and tidy up

remnants of the meal.

Two burly men followed

most natural thing in

up to Creighton’s intensive care unit. The medical

were busy, so she waited outside for a good fifteen minutes

could enter.

doctor’s report was still not optimistic. Creighton

past the critical forty-eight hours to be truly

thanked the doctor. She then sat beside the bed,

and rested

Cicely closed her eyes, pushing down the sourness and fear

inside her.

those recordings. Yes, I said it,

gave me that USB drive. He’s part of a

It can fry a computer,

hides automatically. As soon as someone cracks

no issue. Joel and his team

we retrieve the files,

worry. I’m your daughter, after all. How

to go to

they dare to bring

prove I’m clear, I’ll tear

of trouble growing up, but I’ve never actually dismantled

my hands

a mess to deal with later, and I’ll definitely need

get arrested, I won’t. However, I still intend

you’ve got

support.”

and wiped away the tears at the corner

graying hair. Her heart was full of pain

say to

about Issac’s situation, her desire to divorce Seth,

might be pregnant. But everyone who should know

if someone died, it was just a bit

excitement for them.

becomes another’s entertainment, the

is infuriating.

truly cared for her would react the most, and

why she couldn’t bring

these issues.

much Issac meant to her, how heartbroken

and how ill-timed a pregnancy

Seth too, so she couldn’t tell

Creighton about trivial things, carefully

of the

quickly, and the ICU doctor came in to ask her

went to the hospital’s park and sat on a

the parking lot. Her mind

hoping for Creighton to wake up; she couldn’t

anything beyond that.

at the distant parking lot, watching people come

with large bags and happy faces, others rushing

a familiar figure carrying things

At that moment, her

calling. He asked about her dad

Erik said, “Go

followed the man as he disappeared,

one that had clashed with

debates before.

assistant working

care

a calamity befalling the family, Erik

the house, and she had not even returned

Danielle is doing, I

Enter title…

and walked over to the

going in the parking lot, “Issac is

of the phone was

rusted railing

and Danielle hadn’t dilly-dallied and just gotten on

quicker. It wouldn’t have taken much, maybe just

or even ten might

Issac wouldn’t have left

voice filled with helplessness and a choke of

from the phone, “Cicely…”

Issac meant to me? He

noticeable when around, but now that he’s

old man’s granddaughter. So was

wasting so much time for the sake of Danielle,

wouldn’t have died.

a deep breath,

for you.”

away her phone and turned, expressionless,

hospital.

Danielle’s room for long before Cicely arrived. Charlie

some lunch. The two

of the hospital room door, not entering

her.

there in Danielle’s room, looking haggard

bed, peeling an apple

she heard a knock and turned to

doorway.

Shane could react, Patty had already

are you

quietly left the room. These were

it came to love and hate. It was best

affairs.

a wry smile, “Ms. Patty, Danielle has

speaking, I’m closer to her than

she

wrapped up so tightly on the

mouth visible.

with dry skin. Those bloodshot

as if all her strength were focused there, wishing

tear Cicely apart.

well, and he asked

you. So I came to see just how pitiful

had just healed,

point of

humanity? That’s your cousin you’re talking about,

really wish her

back, shaking

remained indifferent, her gaze fixed

bandages looked

those eyes glared at her with a

hatred.

glaring at me? Seems like, Issac and I have

under a cursed star? Why does everyone

you suffer misfortune?”

cursed one.” Her voice

as if speaking was pulling at her wounds, causing tears to well

eyes.

cooled. “Danielle, if you hadn’t returned to

things wouldn’t have happened. I

more difference to me than if

beside her, “Do you not hear how

sound? Danielle and Seth are like stray

Have you forgotten how you used to

turned her head, her detached and

step back. “What do

your mind?” Cicely finally

a fight? Everyone

thought I was heartless and

you who are

“You…”

save you, do you think you’d still be

expect gratitude, but

your oh-so-superior

in her eyes intensifying. “You saving

trying to curry favor

you and Seth? Otherwise, why would you bother to risk your

you hadn’t come, we would have missed the

be like this. You have the

haven’t even begun to settle the

of it all. How twisted must

be unable to distinguish right from wrong,

blatantly distort the truth.

with a dangerous glint as she

along, Danielle would be nothing

would you. Your fate? Nothing more than two charred

her words, her

I never expected you to be falling over yourselves with gratitude,

understand something. Your lives? They were saved by Issac.

every day from here on out, you

If it weren’t for you

brief silence in the hospital room. “Dead?

Cicely’s temples throb with

his death have to do with us? Got what he deserved, didn’t he?” The

as if the explosion that had rocked her world

once again inside her head. “You think he got what

his death

shaken by the wild rage emanating from Cicely, trembled

her panic, she raised the paring knife she’d been nervously

are you trying to

rigid as a statue. Patty’s

into a cold, mocking smile. “Am I wrong? I didn’t ask you

You made that choice on your own, dragging that

his doom. If you hadn’t come, how could he have possibly

Enter title…

stood out starkly against

extreme anger she felt. “Even if I did come up because I

if you hadn’t stalled me for Danielle,

one in their right mind would have

something like that.”

lying in her bed, sensed the dangerous mood that Cicely

sharp paring

pain in her body, she

each word with her raspy voice. “Cicely, don’t forget, you were

go upstairs

helicopter right

might have even

Cicely’s face stiffened suddenly.d2

now interspersed with painful

body. No matter what, you can’t

on me and Patty.”

No matter her reasons for wanting to go

dress at such a time, it didn’t matter

known it from the

them. They owed Issac a debt of

as unforgivable as

there be

hands clenched into fists, her body trembling with barely suppressed

in Cicely’s pain. It was evident on

late Millie were so similar, not just

in temperament. Millie was a nothing more than a

else, always

the men seemed to have a soft

hadn’t seen her

her daughter. She could almost see

Cicely’s anguish.

and triumph

to hurt her, badly, by any means

a long silence, Cicely suddenly let out a soft

to

to gain your favor. You probably

a faint smile and slowly lifted her left hand. As Patty’s gaze

in a mocking tone, “We’re already

and even Danielle on the sickbed

incredulously at Cicely.

wonder Patty

she kind of realized it. It was indeed quite

relieving.

days after Ray nearly forced himself on me,

already fragile composure

a similar ring on

the drawer of the

a few seconds, staring at the ring on Cicely’s

grotesquely. “No! I don’t believe it! He

me…”

her off, cool and dismissive, “Then why would he

Especially when I had already given up on him. Now that I think

that time. Perhaps he’s fallen for

your mouth!” Patty was struggling to control herself,

“He would never fall

nodded, feigning understanding, “Well, so other than him loving

can’t think of why he would choose to marry me

Ellis Group

eyes flickered, “If that’s the case, being open about it

Why lie to you?

recovering from her shock, eyed the

if you’re done, could you please leave? I heard

your father is not out of the woods yet, and his time

spend

turned

says my dad’s time is

piercing her and continued despite the

told me. They have been keeping it a secret because

Creighton is dying? Creighton is dying?!” Patty’s shrill

Cicely frowned and as she turned, she saw Patty’s crazed

knife

in shock, instinctively shielded her stomach

“It’s all your fault!

stumbled backward, her retreat halted by the hutch behind

out and grasp Patty’s

wrong with you?!”

in Patty’s hands seemed to emanate from deep

Cicely’s taut nerves. Patty’s eyes were bloodshot,

she glared at

and hatred. “It’s all because of you! If it weren’t

fine. Everyone would be fine. You’re

go find Millie

Patty’s emotional outburst. Did she

condition this much? What was going through

much, why

he would never fall

image of Millie and Cicely. One moment it was Millie’s face, the next it

flipping back

Patty’s bewildered look, glanced down

she thought to wrestle it

Cicely’s hand.

frowned, but then Patty gave her a cruel smile. “I told

sure Seth

her words, Patty

and plunged it

Patty, clutching

blood spraying onto Cicely’s face and clothes. Patty then slowly

blood painted Cicely’s

to slide down, she clung to

the blanket

That word was alreay her

indescribably tight,

to convey

filled Danielle with terror, and she finally

“Patty, somebody… somebody help!”

and two men who had

The scene stunned them into

in blood, while Cicely stood with

holding a bloodstained knife, her clothes and

the first to snap out of it and called for a doctor

fainted. The room descended into chaos, and Cicely stood

suspicious and avoidant glances from

terrified. She might have been tough and

a gory scene, especially not this

was ushered out of the room by the hospital

where she shakily washed the blood from her hands, face,

she made

visiting hours and stood

two men who had been with her

they

daze, she overheard a commotion

are you guys?

you need to

few seconds

“Cicely.”

blinked, slowly lifting her head

before her, well-preserved,

young lady, an air of

fortitude softening her

confusion at the familiar yet

murmured, “Auntie Lana…”

eyes fixed on her, and with a

such a mess.” The tap was firm, enough

wince and step aside.

see Cicely’s abnormal reaction. With a furrowed

her niece’s face.

she shook her head slightly, but tears filled her

nonetheless.

but seeing Cicely’s tears,

her cry even when Millie

Cicely had been through,

embrace. Stroking her hair, Lana whispered

am here now.”

was in critical condition. Shane

they had witnessed upon entering

stabbed in the chest, the blood-stained knife was in Cicely’s

lay passed out in

with his words, not wanting to influence

but no matter how it was explained,

Cicely.

at Creighton’s ICU and saw Cicely standing with

deep in conversation.

two men in black sighed in relief when they saw Seth.

Cicely tensed.

man

his

composure, Lana’s experienced

through his façade.

wonder Cicely had fallen

Seth? My niece’s

confusion.

Cicely, whose face was ghastly pale, he asked, “Your

staredat Seth, her silence lingering for a few seconds

might

you’ve already decided on a divorce, her condition is

no need for you to worry.”

up her mind about right and wrong, even

to it tenaciously, a trait that had often

headaches.

words, Seth’s face darkened immediately, “Who said we’re

divorce?”

marriage is beyond saving, why not let it go? Do you

as if nothing has happened and continue living together? It’s better to

so neither of you

didn’t respond to Lana but kept his eyes intently on Cicely, his voice

emotionless. “Did you

eyes at the arrogant

“I’ll give you the shares of the Ellis

“Is Issac dead?”

Issac, Cicely’s eyes shook, and she looked

stare, “You’re

which means

just to avoid a

have something to do with

my own eyes, or hear of his death, we’re

“Think what you want.”

suddenly let out a chilly laugh, “I asked your mother, ‘Do you

insisting you couldn’t possibly fall for me,

actions now. Could it be that you’ve truly fallen

pocket clenched slightly, his

tell

“She suggested I saved her to use her to

And

onto her,

wasn’t interested in their emotional entanglement. Glancing at

“I’ll go talk to the doctor, arrange for

your dad and you first, and then we’ll arrange

bring your grandfather over.”

this, she was already walking away but

Cicely, “If he refuses to

much with him. If I remember correctly, the

differences, living apart for

dissolve a marriage.”

“I’ll

to follow Lana, Seth

revealing a trace of restraint, “Do you really think I’d

leave just like that?”

don’t you go ahead and

silently, his voice subdued and

provoke me.”

like you’re planning on

on leaving?”

“No.”

good. So, I’ll be leaving and I’ll complete

later.”

anger finally surfaced on Seth’s face. “Did

understand what I

For

He spoke again, his gentle voice marked by

“Behave, Cicely.

Cicely was gripped by palpitations.

free from his shackles. She

him

the darker his gaze was, the tighter

instinctively as she struggled.

thin layer of sweat had pushed

frowned, stepped forward, and grasped his hand, intending to help

grip as unyielding as iron

slightly surprised. In the end, it

break his

Lana quickly pulled Cicely

a wary gaze, her heart skipping a beat at

bottomless eyes.

was deep, unfathomable,

an abyss, devoid of

Cicely tightly and hurried away. She

one that seemed to live in

at Cicely and wondered if she realized what

had provoked.

their retreating figures emotionlessly. His lips

you, don’t provoke me.” Lana’s heart

had said. “Don’t

more ominous in hindsight.

severe the consequences

could be.

the confidence came from,

wouldn’t choose to have her killed if she insisted on leaving, as

said.

there was nothing more desperate

but again, she

Enter title…

with the doctor,

Perhaps it was the presence of someone

Cicely feel considerably lighter.

was half an hour, Lana did

big brother, she couldn’t bear standing there

thirty minutes. She

meaningless activities.d2

at the girl sitting by the hospital

father’s, her plea for comfort both

lips. She raised her hand to

with your dad for now. I’ll

grandpa.”

“Then I’ll

worry too much. Your grandpa’s spirit is much stronger

he lived

her mouth to speak, but in the end,

managed a soft “Mhm.”

her hands sliding into the pockets of her dress,

I’ll wait for you, and we’ll

With her aunt

would do next. Especially concerning those two men in

felt clueless on

the ICU, they were met by two

eyes glanced over the documents in their hands

on Cicely’s face. “Are you

wave of panic washed over

The officers noticed her reaction

glance.

there’s been an allegation against you for intentional

come with us to the station

of them

eyes flickered, immediately thinking

it seemed anyone would suspect her of

went crazy on her

just asking for your cooperation

the station,” the leading officer interrupted firmly, intent on taking

away.

First, it was the Department

felt an eerie sense

anything wrong yet was still trapped by

stepped in, placing herself between Cicely and

here first. Are you taking

pretext to lock

expressions grew stern. “Ma’am, please watch your language

our work,” one

insulted you? Is that how bold and

are these days? Can’t I even

serious, “We’ll take

she’s not involved, she’ll be free to

her smile dripping with sarcasm, “So you’ll keep her locked

investigation is

frown deepened, “She’s

I don’t let you

is punishable by up to three years

control, or a fine.”

Lana narrowed her eyes.

blinked, pulling Lana aside, then stepped

question. “Who reported the

they answered,

being feeling like it had

suffocation, numbness set in.

this his way of stabbing her in the

the realization of the

ruthlessness.

nodded slowly. She stood still, her

lost in thought. Then, after several seconds, her

disturbance, rose

worry, I won’t let them take you. I’ll

right now.”

think…” Cicely seemed not to hear Lana’s words,

as if to herself.

niece’s profile, noticing the faint,

smile.

he really

it was Seth who sent Issac away,

to

if Seth loved her. Patty was

to feel

let her leave with her aunt at any

of his fingers on her wrist

loved her as well.

once asked him plainly, and he never

So she wasn’t sure.

this question, the last look in Seth’s

moment, she still couldn’t understand that look,

Grim Reaper had stayed. It’s

that just lost light and life and was

darkening.

light and life… For some reason, she inclined more

metaphor.

“He does.”

people’s love is abnormal,

Cicely smile. “Do you think so

know what the young girl in front of her was thinking.

about this right

off her smile and nodded faintly.

and visit grandpa. In order not to stir

anymore, I’ll

like she just had a

couldn’t now bear any more incidents now. So,

them. Lana’s brow furrowed

gave her a gentle smile, “Just going in for

“No way!”

sliced through the air, brooking

law enforcement officers beside them

to obstruct official duties, we are well within our rights to

according to the

“You wouldn’t dare!”d2

with you.” Cicely suddenly cut Lana off.

Enter title…

of being spoiled rotten overseas, Lana

about the situation back

and make sure someone looks after my

go first? I don’t want you

taken away, looking like I’m being sent off to

such seemingly

but that was just the kind

she was.

deep breath with her eyes closed. “I’ll go with

everything that’s happened these past few

to arrange and deal with, and I don’t understand any of

sort things out when you get back. You don’t need

for other important

seconds. “Alright, I’ll

you up

Cicely nodded, “Okay.”

*

approached, one lifting Cicely’s hands

other pulled out handcuffs.

those cuffs, Cicely’s eyes suddenly shrank, and she quickly withdrew

The indifferent compliance from just moments

and distress. “What are you

as a suspect, we need to

cooperate with us.”

want to wear

the Ellis family.

go with you and I won’t run. So there’s no

you don’t cooperate, don’t

necessary forceful action.”

And they did just that. Without letting Cicely argue,

with a “click,” those delicate wrists

steel of the cuffs.

tingle in her nose, biting her lip

Her hands clenched into fists, shaking, then

relaxed.

a few steps out, at the emergency exit, Seth stood tall, his

his deep-set eyes calmly watching her. She slowed

The officer

Seth’s gaze remained fixed on the woman

around her hands. His eyes narrowed imperceptibly, his

his trouser pocket clenched tightly. After a moment, he

go

chilled to the bone, stared back at him. Despite

seeping into her from

just shown fear and panic, was now facing him.

from indifference, to anger,

curve on her lips.

this the consequence of provoking you? The Ellis family hasn’t

actually hurt

in this

can you keep

narrowed dangerously, as if something feral

from the abyss of his gaze. His

veins bulging, knuckles whitening, his palm’s circulation cut

fold, Cicely.” His voice

choking him.

laughed, tasting his

at the cold, silvery handcuffs on her hands,

of showing goodwill?”

she didn’t wait to see Seth’s reaction

the lead in moving forward. “Weren’t you in a hurry to get back

Not in a rush anymore? Even if you’re not, I’m in

officers quickly followed

hospital, Cicely stopped again.

cover this

officer borrowed a lab coat from the front

draped it over her.

Cicely’s eyes flickered.

ugly. Really

*

police car to

then

she pretended to

one-way mirror opposite her, a camera

and a cheaply varnished table with a recorder

The working conditions were less than

officers, pistols at their hips,

Cicely sat quietly,

on

by. She thought about

the interrogation as a psychological tactic, but did

She didn’t hurt anyone.

one-way glass, Seth watched Cicely sitting there,

indifferent.

the interrogator entered.

actual interrogation.

Liar.

interrogator asked

events.

shared every detail she thought

she and Seth had gotten

loved

total loon.”

and stabbed herself with the knife. That

me the assailant, right?”