Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 365

365 /588

**When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 365**
**Chapter 365**

As they settled into their seats at the elegantly set table, Florence’s keen intuition kicked in, immediately deciphering the underlying motives behind Diana’s actions. The atmosphere was thick with anticipation, and the aroma of the feast wafting from the kitchen was tantalizing. Eight exquisite dishes were laid out before them, a visual feast that was both inviting and daunting. Among these culinary delights, four were seafood: the delicately butter-poached shrimp glistening in its golden sheen, the perfectly seared scallops adorned with a rich garlic butter sauce, steamed crabs that seemed to beckon with their sweet, tender meat, and a creamy clam chowder that promised warmth and comfort.

Sydney, with her adventurous palate, began to sample each dish, her expressions shifting from delight to contemplation. Florence observed her intently, a flicker of disappointment momentarily shadowing her features. It was a fleeting moment, but one that did not escape Diana’s notice. With a calm yet inquisitive tone, she inquired, “Dr. Wilson, do you frequently encounter patients who have seafood allergies?”

Her voice carried a crisp clarity, inviting yet devoid of any chill.

“Indeed, I do,” Sydney replied, her honesty evident as she considered the question. “They’re among the most prevalent allergies we see.” She recalled her own childhood, a time marked by the restrictions of her seafood allergy. It had been her kind mentor who had introduced her to herbal remedies and acupuncture, guiding her back to health. Now, she relished the freedom to enjoy any dish without fear.

Just as Diana was about to delve deeper into the conversation, Florence interjected, her tone firm yet protective. “Let’s allow Dr. Wilson to savor her meal. After dinner, she should head home and get some rest.”

Sydney, feeling the warmth of their concern, continued to eat, savoring each bite. The sight of her enjoying the meal rekindled Florence’s own appetite, prompting her to finish an entire bowl of the medicinal soup, its warmth spreading through her like a comforting embrace.

Once Sydney took her leave, Florence turned to Diana, her voice laced with curiosity. “Have you now become as obsessed as I am?”

Over the years, Florence had developed a habit of probing into the lives of those who resembled her fifth daughter in age, a tendency that often drew Diana’s gentle reprimands. But this moment felt different, charged with an unspoken urgency.

Diana paused, her gaze drifting as if lost in thought. “Perhaps,” she finally admitted, her voice barely above a whisper.

A wave of regret washed over Florence. If only she had accompanied their parents to Brookville back then, if only she had kept a watchful eye on her sister, maybe they would not be facing this void of uncertainty now.

With a deep sigh, Florence recalled James’s words. “Didn’t James mention that you already looked into Sydney’s background?”

When James had sought her assistance in verifying Sydney’s records, it had been through Diana. She had conducted her due diligence, and in that moment, Florence had reluctantly released her hopes.