Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 501

**When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 501**

**Chapter 501**

The instant Raymond caught sight of the sly smirk dancing on the edges of Julian’s lips, an unsettling sensation crept through him. It was as if he could already feel the ground beneath him shifting, a pit being dug by Julian’s cunning hands, just waiting for him to stumble and fall in.

And the most disheartening realization? He had no option but to leap into that very pit.

With a wary gaze, he narrowed his eyes, suspicion flaring within him. “What’s the catch? Don’t tell me you’re planning to play the greedy landlord and jack up the rent by a few thousand percent?”

Julian’s smile was smooth, almost disarming, his tone dripping with sincerity. “How could I do such a thing? We’re bros, right? Besides, it’s not even that much money.”

Raymond couldn’t help but scoff inwardly. ‘Of course, he thinks that way. No wonder he’s at the helm of the Sterling family’s empire. When your definition of “not much money” starts at seven figures, the rest of us are left scrambling. Yet, somehow, when he said it, it didn’t come off as arrogance—just a perfectly crafted self-assurance that made him even more infuriating.’

He mentally noted that he could learn a thing or two from Julian’s confidence, but his caution held firm. “So, what is it that you actually want?”

Trusting Julian was like attempting to throw a boulder—impossible. And, predictably, Julian didn’t take long to confirm Raymond’s worst fears.

“You have a knack for charming my grandmother,” he stated casually. “Think of a way to get her to fake an illness.”

“Fake a what?” For a brief moment, disbelief washed over Raymond. By “grandmother,” Julian clearly referred to Agatha, and the entire scheme sounded dubious at best.

“Mm,” Julian affirmed, his eyes steady, voice calm. “Fake being sick.”

As he stared into Julian’s clear and calculating gaze, the pieces began to fall into place. “Oh, I see now. You’re trying to use that little trick to lure Syd over to Delta Mansion, aren’t you?”

Just days prior, Agatha had nearly taken a tumble down the stairs while alone. Concerned for her well-being, Julian had moved her into his private estate, ensuring that someone would always be nearby in case of an emergency.

Julian didn’t even flinch at the accusation. Instead, he shot Raymond a sidelong glance, his demeanor light. “So, are you renting the apartment or not?”

On the other end, Sydney hesitated, the silence stretching between them. There was a soft rustle, the sound of her settling into a comfortable spot. Then her voice floated through the line, soft and hazy with lingering steam.

“No wonder you weren’t worried about gossip spreading.”

Suddenly, everything clicked into place for her. Eloise wasn’t his real grandmother at all. The realization washed over her mid-shower—not with anger, but with a sense of relief. Relief that there was no blood tie binding them. Whatever unfolded next wouldn’t reflect on Julian.

Believing she was upset, Julian didn’t rush to explain himself. His voice emerged low and patient, a tone reserved for no one else. “Dry your hair first. Or come over, and I’ll do it for you.”

That gentle, unhurried tone tugged at her heartstrings, causing her to smile, her demeanor softening without her even realizing it. “No way. Raymond’s still at your place.”

Since finding out about her pregnancy, Tiffany had been overly cautious. She had even forbidden Sydney from locking the bathroom door while showering, just in case she slipped or fainted.

Thus, after storming out of a heated argument with Raymond, Tiffany had stopped by to check on Sydney. When she noticed the bathroom door slightly ajar, she had spent half of her visit venting her frustrations through that narrow gap, detailing every bit of Raymond’s entitled temper.