Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 364

“Alright, alright.” Agatha’s voice was warm and inviting, and Sydney couldn’t help but feel a rush of affection for her friend. The way Agatha smiled, her eyes crinkling with genuine delight, made it impossible for Sydney to refuse her request. “When you have some free time, come by my place for a visit?”

“Of course,” Sydney replied with an eagerness that surprised even herself. “But it might have to wait a bit. I’ve been swamped with work lately.” The weight of her responsibilities loomed large in her mind, a constant reminder of the demands that seemed to multiply each day.

The clinic was a whirlwind of activity, the lab was filled with experiments that required her undivided attention, and the charity projects were never-ending. Each task pulled her in different directions, leaving her feeling like she was running a marathon with no finish line in sight. Yet, she clung to the hope that once the new drug hit the market, she would finally be able to take a deep breath and savor a moment of peace.

Agatha, ever observant, noted the sharpness of Sydney’s chin, a testament to her stress. “Then will you be home this weekend? I’ll make some muffins and bring them over.”

“Okay.” Sydney’s face lit up at the thought of Agatha’s delicious muffins. They were a small comfort in her hectic life, and she couldn’t resist the warmth of that promise.

After a few more gentle reminders to take care of herself, Agatha departed, prescription in hand, leaving Sydney to immerse herself once more in her busy schedule.

As the clock struck noon, Sydney glanced at the time, her mind already racing ahead. “Add more patients to the list,” she instructed the nurse, her voice steady and determined. She didn’t leave the clinic until just past 3:00 p.m., and after a quick meal at a nearby café, she found herself driving toward Seraph Villas with a sense of purpose.

That morning, the eldest daughter of the Hutton family had arrived in Jouleston, and Sydney had coordinated the afternoon treatment to allow mother and daughter some precious time together before the session.

Upon her arrival, Sydney was greeted by the familiar faces of the Hutton family’s maids. As she parked her car, one of them approached to open her door. “Dr. Wilson, welcome,” she said with a respectful nod.

“Thank you,” Sydney replied, her smile genuine as she stepped into the lavish home.

As she made her way through the elegantly decorated living room, she caught sight of the eldest Hutton daughter for the first time. It was an impressive encounter; this woman, in her thirties, radiated a commanding presence that was hard to ignore. Her hair was meticulously arranged in a bun, and her posture exuded confidence and authority. It was no wonder she held such sway within the Hutton household.

Sydney had intended to greet her, but she paused, noticing that Diana was lost in thought, her gaze fixed on a family portrait hanging on the wall. Respecting the moment, Sydney silently continued upstairs to prepare for the acupuncture session.

Just as she was about to leave the room, Diana turned, her sharp gaze landing on Sydney. “You must be Dr. Wilson. I’m Diana Hutton, James and the others’ eldest sister.”

“Yes, Ms. Hutton,” Sydney replied, her voice polite yet tinged with curiosity.

Diana seemed to sense the slight tension in Sydney’s demeanor. “Go on up. My mother is waiting for you.”

“Would you like to rest in your bedroom or go downstairs?” Sydney inquired softly, her voice laced with genuine concern.

“Downstairs, with you,” Florence replied, her eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief.

As they entered the living room, Diana was just finishing up a work call. She looked up, her demeanor shifting as she acknowledged Sydney with a nod. “Thank you for your efforts.”

“Just doing my job,” Sydney responded, her modesty shining through.

Just as she was about to excuse herself, Florence interjected, “Where’s the chicken soup I had prepared for Syd? Bring it out quickly!”

Diana observed her mother’s affectionate fussing over Sydney, and for the first time in a while, a flicker of warmth crossed her usually composed face. “Dr. Wilson, it’s nearly dinner. Why not join us?”

Florence looked taken aback, her surprise evident.

Diana had inherited her grandfather’s cool, distant temperament, and since venturing into politics, she had only grown more guarded, wary of the intentions of others. Yet today, she had taken the initiative to invite someone into their home for dinner, a gesture that spoke volumes about the shift in her heart.