Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 375

Before Sydney could articulate her thoughts fully, the data they had been anxiously awaiting finally materialized on the screen. Both she and Marcus leaned in closer, their eyes locking in a shared moment of sheer relief and exhilaration that felt almost palpable. It was a rare moment of joy, where the weight of their hard work seemed to lift, if only for a heartbeat.

The approval for the drug’s market release was all but assured.

Marcus couldn’t contain his excitement, a wide grin spreading across his face. “Once this project launches, your value will nearly rival Mr. Sterling’s,” he said, his voice filled with enthusiasm.

Sydney chuckled softly, a hint of disbelief in her tone. “That’s impossible,” she replied, shaking her head gently.

The chasm that lay between her and Julian Sterling was vast, an unbridgeable divide. No matter how monumental her drug’s success might be, it could never hope to measure up to his immense wealth. Yet, in that moment, she realized that it didn’t truly matter. Achieving her own dreams felt like a victory in itself, one that filled her with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Just as they were about to delve deeper into their conversation, Marcus’s phone buzzed insistently, cutting through their moment of triumph. He stepped away toward the window, his expression shifting as he answered the call. When he returned, there was a hint of sheepishness etched on his features. “Something’s come up at home. I might need your help,” he said, his tone carrying a note of urgency.

“What kind of help?” Sydney asked, her voice steady and unwavering. “You’ve already done so much for me. If there’s anything I can do to assist you, I would be more than happy to help. Please don’t feel awkward about it,” she urged, her sincerity shining through.

Years ago, when she had been struggling to secure a position at the medicine clinic, it had been Marcus’s recommendation that had opened the door for her. He had taken a considerable risk, one that could have upset the Sterling family, to give her a chance. She owed him a great deal, and she was determined to repay that kindness.

Marcus let out a deep breath, the weight of his father’s call evident in his demeanor. “My dad just called. One of his old friends has returned to the country, but he’s quite ill. He’s asked for you to take a look and see if there’s anything you can do,” he explained, his eyes reflecting concern.

“What illness?” Sydney’s interest piqued. Challenging cases always drew her in like a moth to a flame.

“Early-stage lung cancer,” Marcus replied, noting the spark of curiosity igniting in her eyes. “He’s very traditional and refuses to consider surgery. He came back hoping to find a medicinal approach—something less invasive.”

Sydney felt a mix of emotions wash over her. She had encountered patients like this before, individuals who sought alternatives to conventional treatments. Some had found skilled doctors who could slow the disease or even reverse its course; others, however, had been less fortunate, merely prolonging the inevitable and losing precious time in the process.

She was acutely aware of the risks involved. After taking a moment to sip her water, she asked, “When do you want me to go?”

“Could you come now?” Marcus’s voice was tinged with apology. “My dad’s friend is at our house right now. If you’re willing, it would be best to see him immediately.”

The sooner, the better, she thought. Without a moment’s hesitation, she agreed.

As she stepped inside, her gaze instinctively drifted toward the patient seated in the room.

An elderly man in a crisp black suit sat beside a cane, his frail legs betraying his age, yet his presence commanded attention. He appeared to be in his seventies, and there was something about him that made Sydney pause. It was an aura that felt distant and unfathomable, something she couldn’t quite put her finger on.

Before she could delve deeper into her thoughts, both Marcus’s father, Matthew Shepard, and the elderly man turned their attention toward her.

Matthew rose first, his voice warm with familiarity. “Jeremiah, this is Dr. Wilson, the one I mentioned. Don’t let her youth fool you; her skills are nothing short of exceptional. Even the Hutton family seeks her out for private consultations,” he stated proudly.

Then, turning to Sydney, he continued, “Sydney, this is Jeremiah Clifford, an old friend of mine. We haven’t crossed paths since he went abroad over twenty years ago. It’s wonderful to have him back with us.”

His tone was steeped in nostalgia, the weight of their long friendship palpable in the air.

Jeremiah stroked his beard thoughtfully, his gaze scrutinizing Sydney with a calm intensity. “Dr. Wilson, I returned to Hoseon specifically to seek treatment. I trust I will be in your capable hands,” he said, his voice steady yet tinged with vulnerability.