Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 283

**When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 283**

**Chapter 283**

“That old witch,” Penelope seethed within the confines of her mind, frustration bubbling just beneath the surface. “This was meant to be a partnership, yet every single day, she sends someone to keep tabs on me. Fine, let her think she’s clever. Once I get my hands on this drug, I’ll sell it off to another pharmaceutical company. Let’s see if that old witch doesn’t choke on her own rage when I pull the rug out from under her.”

At that moment, it didn’t matter who her partner was; Penelope was determined to claim full credit for the groundbreaking discovery. Eloise wouldn’t dare lay a finger on her.

And Sydney? Once Penelope triumphed, dealing with a failure like her would be nothing more than a mere afterthought.

Meanwhile, in the lab, Sydney was completely oblivious to the schemes unfolding around her. She was engrossed in her work, her mind focused solely on the project that was still in its developmental stages.

As the clock struck five in the afternoon, Marcus rinsed his hands at the sink, a satisfied smile spreading across his face. “Let’s call it a day. We can’t proceed until the data comes in,” he announced, his tone light and easygoing.

“Okay,” Sydney replied, her own smile brightening as she peeled off her gloves and joined him by the sink.

From his vantage point, Shane chimed in, “Ms. Wilson, Mr. Shepard, you two really do work seamlessly together.”

Their camaraderie was evident, like colleagues who had weathered the storms of research side by side for years.

Marcus chuckled, a warm sound that filled the air. “You should ask her how long I’ve been her assistant. Trust me, I’ve picked up a thing or two along the way.”

Sydney raised an eyebrow, a playful smile dancing on her lips as she recalled their history. “Four years?” she ventured, her tone inquisitive.

Caleb, sensing the coldness radiating from her, pressed his lips into a thin line, a flicker of irritation crossing his features. “It’s your birthday today. I’ve made reservations at a restaurant. I thought we could celebrate together,” he offered, his voice strained yet hopeful.

“I already made plans with friends,” her reply was brisk, the finality of her words leaving little room for negotiation.

She turned to Marcus, her expression firm. “Marc, let’s go.”

“Mm.” He smiled gently, instinctively stepping to the side to position himself between her and Caleb.

If Sydney had any affection for Caleb, he would graciously step aside. But if she rejected him, he would stand resolutely by her side. Her happiness was his only priority.

Just as they took two steps forward, Caleb caught up to them, blocking their path with an air of desperation. Holding back the urge to physically pull her away, he spoke in a strained, patient voice, “Syd, please. Be reasonable. I’ve never once had the chance to celebrate your birthday with you. Can’t you grant me this one opportunity?”