The Enticing CEO's Chosen Bride novel Chapter 2020

Charlie had once mentioned to her that everyone at the office actually had high hopes for Danielle, and it was only Seth who was holding her back. Of course, she was pleased to hear it.

Summer vacation was in full swing, and Seth was busy prepping a new series and a movie, planning to tackle both simultaneously.

Cicely, ever so understanding, had steered clear of bothering him. Emiliana's recent series had wrapped up with a decent buzz, gaining her a modest fan base. Her sights were now set on auditioning for a production by C&P Studios.

During Emiliana's shoot, Cicely had visited the set a few times, lavishing gifts that ensured Emiliana was well taken care of by the crew. Now, with both of them free, they had arranged to meet up for some shopping and lunch.

Cicely had made a reservation at a popular bistro renowned for its spotless kitchen and celebrity clientele. Emiliana had also praised the place, saying how many stars frequented it for its cleanliness. Cicely was mainly interested in the hygiene aspect.

Sure enough, as a hotspot for celebs, they bumped into Danielle, who they hadn't seen for a while. Dressed in a flowing blue maxi dress, her hair voluminous, she donned sunglasses that covered a third of her face – an obvious attempt at incognito in such a place.d2

The girl trailing behind her wasn't tall and had scanned the bistro upon entering, her gaze finally landing on Cicely. The gesture was so overt, it was as if Cicely was marked. Then, with regal poise, the girl nodded in her direction.

Cicely raised an eyebrow.

Danielle seemed to notice her too, those eyes behind the sunglasses lingering on her for a few seconds before she turned and walked to a seat on the other side. She made no move to greet them, nor did she leave. Cicely couldn't be bothered to acknowledge her either.

Emiliana, having witnessed the whole exchange, commented as their food arrived, "That assistant looked like she was searching for you. She might have something to say."

Cicely picked up her fork and speared a bite of her salad, confirming its quality. "I'm a well-behaved and obedient college student. What does she have to talk to me about? Does she want to ask about my GPA?"

Emiliana chuckled, "Maybe she thinks you're pretty enough to be a star?"

"If I wanted, it wouldn't be her doing the scouting."

Emiliana nodded, "True enough."

After lunch, they headed to the ladies' room to freshen up.

"Got anything particular you want to buy?" Emiliana asked.

Cicely applied a fresh coat of lipstick, "Didn't you say you wanted to check out those vintage clothing and masks? I'm good, but I can go take a look."

"It's funny how clothes from the past have made a comeback in the 21st century."

"Don't you wear them all the time for your roles?"

Emiliana nodded, "There are so many designs, each more stunning than the last. You'll see."

Cicely, uncommitted to the subject, shifted gears, "Have you thought about signing with an agency?"

Emiliana paused, her eyes shimmering with hope, "Of course, but I don't want to sign with just anyone. C&P Studios is on fire right now; everyone's dying to get in." They did have top-tier resources.

At the mention of C&P Entertainment, Cicely felt a strange surge of pride, unusual since she never felt this strongly even growing up with the Ellis family. It was all because Seth had built it from the ground up.

With a smile, she stashed her lip balm in her purse, "Alright, I'll see what I can do to put in a good word for you."

"Should I look forward to it?"

"Just make sure you can show your worth when you're in front of him."

As they exited the restroom, a figure suddenly blocked their path. "Ms. Cicely..."

Cicely stepped back, glancing down at the girl before her, saying nothing.

The girl, expecting a reaction, continued nervously, "Ms. Cicely, I wouldn't approach you if it wasn't necessary. I really need to talk to you."

Cicely glanced sideways at Emiliana's unsurprised expression and chuckled, "Do I know you?"

"I'm Allie, Danielle's assistant."

Cicely feigned a smile, "Oh, I see. Still, no clue."

She attempted to sidestep Allie, but the assistant blocked her again, desperation in her voice.

"Ms. Cicely, I wouldn't be here if there wasn't a reason. I have a favor to ask."

"Miss Allie," Cicely cut her off, "even if I did know you, which I don't, I wouldn't grant you any favors. What makes you think I might help you?"

Allie bit her lip, confirming that Cicely was as formidable as rumors suggested. "I'm an intern at C&P Entertainment, and Ms. Danielle wishes to sign with us. Most of the company sees her potential, but Mr. Diaz has been unreceptive, and we understand it's out of consideration for you..."

Cicely brushed her hair aside, her laugh tinged with sarcasm. "So, what? You want me to convince Seth to sign Danielle?"

After a brief silence, Allie gave a timid nod.

"Did Danielle send you?"

"No, it was my own decision."

"Miss Allie, you're just an assistant. You do the job you're paid for. Where Danielle signs is none of your business. What made you think you could show up and expect any favors from me?"

"But signing Ms. Danielle would benefit C&P Entertainment. If you could just agree, then perhaps Mr. Diaz..."

Cicely's laughter broke out, "And why would I agree? Everyone knows Danielle and I don't mesh. Seth is aware enough to avoid her for my sake. And you? What's your role in this?”

“Even if she's valuable to the company, the world won't stop spinning without her. You think her worth is enough to persuade me? After everything she's done, it's nowhere near enough.

“Wasn't she all about pride and keeping up appearances? Now she's throwing that out the window? I haven't even settled the score with her, and she expects me to just let bygones be bygones and pave her a golden path out of my generosity?"