Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 556

**When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 556**

**Chapter 556**

After a lengthy discussion about the progress at Alan’s place, Marcus finally stood up, his chair scraping slightly against the floor. With a curt nod, he made his way to the exit, leaving behind a lingering sense of unresolved tension.

Sydney, on the other hand, felt a wave of relief wash over her. Since no additional patients had arrived at the clinic that day, she had no reason to linger. After a quick lunch, she decided to drive to Seraph Villa, her heart lightening at the thought of seeing Florence.

As she stepped into the sunlit courtyard, the familiar surroundings wrapped around her like a warm embrace. Just as she was taking in the serene atmosphere, Diana emerged from the front doors, her strides purposeful and confident.

Sydney often visited on specific days to tend to Florence’s needs, so Diana was not taken aback by her presence. However, the subtle shift in Diana’s demeanor was unmistakable. The sharp edge that usually characterized her expression softened, replaced by a welcoming smile that felt almost sisterly. “You’re here. Why so early today?” she asked, her voice laced with genuine curiosity.

“Yeah,” Sydney replied, her heart skipping a beat at the unexpected warmth. She had worried about the possibility of encountering Penelope or the others, but seeing Diana instead was a pleasant surprise that brightened her mood.

She took a breath, her voice gentle as she explained, “Starting today, I’ll have fewer patients at the clinic. I should be able to come earlier from now on.” The words flowed out, carrying a hint of hope and relief.

Diana’s expression shifted, the frustration that had nestled in her chest dissipating like morning fog. “Good. Then come home for lunch from now on,” she suggested, her tone inviting.

“No need,” Sydney replied quickly, a hint of apprehension creeping into her voice. She was keen to avoid any awkward encounters with Penelope. “I can come after eating.”

“Alright,” Diana conceded, her understanding evident. She knew that the situation with Penelope would soon be resolved, and once it was, she could extend her invitation for meals once again without hesitation.

Diana gestured toward the sleek black sedan idling nearby, its engine humming softly. “I need to return to Brimcrest City for some business. If you need anything, find James or Ray,” she instructed, her voice steady, yet a flicker of concern danced in her eyes.

Diana had been working tirelessly for days to carve out time for this trip. The plan was to tackle the Brimcrest issues that afternoon, drive back through the night, and head straight into a morning meeting, leaving no room for rest.

To the outside world, being the eldest daughter of the Huttons appeared glamorous. Young, accomplished, and admired by many, she was the envy of those who only saw the surface. Yet, only a select few understood the burdens she carried beneath that polished exterior.

She nodded absently, checking her watch. “What time is the appointment with Leon at the courthouse?” she inquired, her mind already racing ahead.

“Three,” Nina replied promptly, her voice steady.

The meeting had been arranged the previous afternoon after Leon had left Hutton Corp. It was a familiar routine: Diana and Leon would discuss the major decisions, while their assistants handled the finer details in private.

As Diana gazed out the window, watching the scenery blur by, she felt a flicker of exhaustion beneath her composed facade. This marriage, she mused, was the one mistake that had haunted her. Leon had never been the right partner for a family alliance, and yet here they were, tangled in a web of expectations and obligations.