Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 430

**When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 430**

**Chapter 430**

Resentment hung thickly between the two factions, a palpable tension that suggested both sides bore some blame—perhaps even that the weight of guilt rested entirely on his family’s shoulders.

If he chose Tiffany, he could anticipate the wrath of his family, their fury manifesting in scoldings that labeled him an unfilial fool. Yet, if he opted for his family’s approval, it would be Tiffany who faced the true devastation, left with nothing but heartbreak.

Sydney found herself taken aback by the clarity of Raymond’s response.

“Not even a little blame?” she inquired softly, her voice barely above a whisper, as if afraid to disturb the fragile atmosphere.

Raymond’s answer was unequivocal. “No.”

As Sydney ascended the stairs to her room, her mind was ensnared by the implications of that exchange. She hadn’t anticipated Raymond’s unwavering conviction; his certainty left her pondering the complexities of loyalty and love.

But what about Julian? After a refreshing shower, she perched on the edge of her bed, droplets of water trickling down her back, her damp hair a curtain that framed her face. The same thought spiraled relentlessly in her mind. What would Julian say?

Perhaps, as Florence had suggested, she should confront him directly. After all, she had steeled herself for the worst possible outcome.

Lying back, she fixed her gaze on the ceiling above, her thoughts a tumultuous sea. Julian’s words from their last encounter on the terrace echoed in her ears, each syllable piercing her heart like a sharpened arrow. Her eyes stung with unshed tears, the weight of his sentiments pressing heavily upon her.

After what felt like an eternity, she inhaled deeply, determination flooding her veins. She would confront him. Once the police had provided updates on the case and she returned to Jouleston, she would find him and ask him directly.

This resolve lightened the oppressive burden that had settled on her chest, a flicker of hope igniting within her.

The following morning, the Hutton estate buzzed with an electric energy, a hive of preparations for Albus’ upcoming birthday party. Guests from afar were already making their way to Brimcrest, adhering to the tradition of paying their respects at the Hutton estate before the festivities began.

During breakfast, Sydney seized the opportunity to formally greet Albus, her heart racing with the weight of expectations. After the meal concluded, she discreetly retreated to her room, not wishing to intrude upon the Huttons’ guests and their lively conversations.

By noon, Adeline arrived at the mansion, accompanied by an unexpected guest: Penelope.

Initially, Adeline had no intention of bringing her along. However, Penelope had learned of their destination and had stubbornly insisted on joining, her resolve unyielding.

In that moment, Adeline couldn’t help but reflect on the stark contrast between Penelope and Sydney. At least Sydney carried herself with a sense of dignity that Penelope seemed to lack.

As they stepped through the grand gates, they encountered Caleb, who cast a fleeting glance at Penelope before his brow furrowed in disapproval.

“Why did you bring her?” he asked Adeline, his tone flat and devoid of warmth.

They had been referring to her and Caleb.

Suppressing her irritation, Penelope forced a polite smile. “Ms. Hutton, you’ve misunderstood. Those were just baseless rumors…”

Megan’s tone was casual, but her smile held a sharp edge. “You don’t want to marry Caleb anymore?”

“What?” Penelope was taken aback, her heart racing.

Megan crossed her arms, her demeanor relaxed, yet the glint in her eyes was anything but friendly. “I can help you marry him.”

Stunned, Penelope had assumed Megan, like the rest of the Huttons, had come solely to defend Sydney.

However, she was aware that the Hutton siblings each held their own roles: Diana in politics, James managing the family’s business empire, and Megan, who seemed to wield no real influence at all.

Quick to regain her composure, Penelope met Megan’s gaze squarely, her curiosity piqued. “And how exactly would you help me?”

Megan wasted no time. “The police are close to wrapping up their investigation into the car accident. If you want to protect yourself, you’ll need my help.”

A knot formed in Penelope’s stomach. She had joined Adeline today partly to get closer to the Huttons, quietly hoping to glean insights into the progress of the investigation. She hadn’t anticipated that the Brimcrest police would move so swiftly.