Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 544

**When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 544**

**Chapter 544**

Tiffany delicately lifted a stunning new-season handbag from the display, her brow furrowed in confusion as she murmured, “But how on earth did Penelope even end up entangled with Eric?”

For as long as Tiffany could remember, she had always believed that Penelope’s ambitions revolved around marrying back into the elite circles of the Hamptons. The way Eric had exuded confidence just moments ago made her question everything; it was entirely possible that the child growing within Penelope was indeed his.

Sydney, lost in her thoughts, recalled a time when Penelope had collaborated with Eloise, and a rough theory began to form in her mind. “She probably got blackmailed during that last project with Eloise,” she suggested, her voice low and thoughtful.

“Then that means…” Tiffany’s lip curled in disdain, her expression one of disbelief. “She basically smashed her own foot with that rock.”

Sydney remained silent, neither confirming nor denying Tiffany’s assertion. There was no need for further elaboration; everyone knew Eloise was as ruthless as they came. Penelope had displayed reckless audacity when she targeted Sydney, yet she still chose to partner with someone like Eloise.

Observing how the bag complemented Tiffany’s style perfectly, Sydney decided it was a fitting gift. She walked over to the counter, her resolve firm, and paid for the handbag.

Tiffany’s eyes widened in shock as she registered what Sydney had done. “What are you doing? Did you win the lottery or something?”

The price tag on that handbag was nothing short of extravagant—it was a four-figure piece.

Sydney shot her a sideways glance, a playful smirk dancing on her lips. “I didn’t win the lottery. Your birthday is just around the corner.”

Tiffany opened her mouth, ready to express her gratitude, but her words were abruptly halted as a tall figure approached them. She froze, her heart racing.

Raymond had stepped into the boutique, his gaze fixed solely on Sydney. “When you finish shopping, I’ll arrange for someone to drive you both home,” he stated, his voice calm but firm.

Penelope and Megan had stormed out just minutes before, and their long-standing animosity towards Sydney made their next move unpredictable. Raymond was determined to keep Sydney out of any potential trouble.

Sydney understood his concern, and a small smile played on her lips as she gently declined. “No need for that. Elliot and the others are already waiting for me in the parking garage.”

She had sent Elliot a quick message the instant she had spotted Penelope.

Peter replied casually, “Oh, him? He went to the airport.” His words slipped out before he could think them through.

Nathan, unable to intervene in time, added, “Mr. Sterling had me rebook his ticket in the middle of the night yesterday. He should be landing around eight or nine this evening.”

Sydney’s eyes sparkled with excitement. “Julian came back early?”

“Of course,” Peter affirmed, a knowing smile on his face. “Something must have stirred him up. He looked desperate.”

A memory from the previous night surfaced in Sydney’s mind, the streetlights filtering through the trees, casting a soft glow on her face.

“My body and mind both want you,” he had said, his voice echoing in her thoughts.

‘So he returned early because of that?’ A warm flutter of joy filled her chest, akin to a small, frantic rabbit leaping within her.

Her hand instinctively drifted to her stomach, a gentle caress. ‘Baby, your father will be home soon.’