Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 446

**TITLE: When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 446**

**CONTENT: Chapter 446**

In a fleeting moment of introspection, Florence found herself grappling with a question that had lingered at the back of her mind: if faced with the choice, who would she select between Sydney and Penelope?

The answer that emerged this time was a stark departure from what she might have declared in the past. Previously, she had been unwavering in her belief that once they located Vee, no matter how far away she seemed, she would relentlessly pursue her return home. The thought of family was a powerful motivator, one that had driven her through countless sleepless nights and anxious days.

As Florence delved deeper into her thoughts, the sound of footsteps echoed in the room, pulling her back to reality. She turned her head slightly to see the housekeeper guiding a man dressed in a meticulously tailored suit into their space. He wore rimless glasses that highlighted his sharp features, and his demeanor exuded a calm confidence. In his mid-thirties, he carried an air of quiet authority that was hard to ignore. A subordinate trailed closely behind him, ready to assist.

The man approached Florence and Theodore with purpose, offering a respectful nod. “Father. Mother,” he greeted, his voice steady and formal.

His gaze then shifted to Diana, who stood nearby, her expression as inscrutable as ever. “Diana,” he acknowledged, but she remained impassive, her focus unyielding.

Without wasting a moment, Diana cut to the chase. “Let’s begin the sampling,” she stated firmly, her tone leaving no room for hesitation.

“Alright,” Leon replied, turning his attention back to Florence. He spoke gently, as if trying to ease any tension in the air. “Mother, I’ll just need to take a strand of your hair.”

Florence nodded, feeling a mix of apprehension and curiosity. His movements were deft and practiced; he carefully plucked a single strand, sealing it in a collection pouch before handing it off to his assistant with a brief, significant glance.

The assistant wasted no time and approached Penelope next, ready to collect her sample. Instinctively, Penelope recoiled, her eyes wide with uncertainty. But before she could retreat further, Megan reached out and grasped her arm firmly. “What are you afraid of? It doesn’t even hurt,” she reassured, her voice steady and encouraging.

Realizing the futility of her resistance, Penelope took a deep breath, steeling herself. Perhaps Megan had already devised a plan to navigate this situation, and she felt a flicker of trust in her friend’s judgment.

Meanwhile, Sydney and Julian exchanged glances, both acutely aware that they were no longer part of this unfolding drama. The matter at hand didn’t concern them, and the chaos brewing online was spiraling out of control. They needed to return to Jouleston without delay.

Sydney stepped forward, her voice low and measured as she addressed Florence. “Madam, there’s been a development at Sterling Corp. I’ll be heading back to Jouleston with Julian earlier than planned. Please let me know once you’re back there, so I can arrange your next treatment.”

Julian leaned back against the window, an amused smile playing on his lips. “Thank me for what?” he inquired, his tone light and teasing.

His playful demeanor left her momentarily speechless, unsure of how to respond.

Should she thank him for standing up for her? If that were the case, she would owe him a lifetime of gratitude.

But all those moments of warmth and protection had been buried under the weight of years filled with pain, heartbreak, and the bitterness that followed his betrayal. It had always been easier to harbor resentment than to confront the longing she felt for him.

During those long, lonely years, she had repeatedly told herself that he was the one who had wronged her first, that forgiveness was impossible. Even now, the harsh words he had once hurled at her echoed vividly in her mind, a haunting reminder of their shared past.

And yet, here she was, carrying his child.

Thus, she found herself questioning, ‘Can we still find our way back? Is there still another chance to begin again?’