Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 429

**When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 429**

**Chapter 429**

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James moved with a sense of urgency as he handed over the delicate silver needles to Sydney. The moment he and Theodore stepped out of the room, a quiet determination settled over Sydney. She took a deep breath, centering herself, and began her work with a practiced grace. Each needle found its place in the skin, targeting the acupoints with a precision that spoke of years of training and experience.

Before long, Florence stirred, her eyelids fluttering as she slowly emerged from the depths of unconsciousness.

Sydney placed a gentle hand on Florence’s shoulder, her touch reassuring. “Don’t move yet. I’m still administering the treatment,” she instructed softly, her voice a soothing balm in the tense atmosphere.

“Alright,” Florence murmured, her voice barely above a whisper.

As the memories of their earlier argument and the accompanying dizziness flooded back to her, Florence turned her gaze toward Sydney, a soft sigh escaping her lips. “Don’t take Meg’s words to heart,” she advised, her tone laced with a mix of concern and understanding.

This was her way of apologizing for Megan’s harshness that morning, a gesture of goodwill amidst the tension.

“And as for what she said at dinner,” Florence continued, her expression serious, “you can forget that too.”

The clarity in her voice left no room for doubt. The Huttons had made it clear: they would not pursue a marriage between Megan and Julian.

Sydney felt a tightness in her chest, a familiar ache that she had tried to suppress. She had told herself that she didn’t care about the Huttons’ plans, but deep down, she knew that wasn’t entirely true. The truth was, she had relinquished her claim first, and with that came a heavy burden of regret.

Her fingers brushed against her palm, a small gesture that grounded her in the moment. “That matter has nothing to do with me,” she replied quietly, forcing herself to maintain her composure. “Please don’t worry about it. Whatever happens between Ms. Hutton and Mr. Sterling isn’t my concern.”

“Really?” Florence asked, her gaze piercing, as if she could see straight through Sydney’s carefully constructed facade.

The Huttons had been deeply involved in uncovering the truth about Sydney’s past with the Sterlings, and Florence could read the unspoken thoughts swirling in Sydney’s mind.

“If I were you,” Florence advised, her voice steady, “I would confront him directly about his intentions. If he can articulate his plans, perhaps there’s still a chance for you both. But if he can’t and chooses to remain loyal to Eloise, then it’s better to walk away. This stagnant situation benefits no one—not him, and certainly not the child you’re carrying.”

Sydney felt her eyes tremble at Florence’s words, a mix of vulnerability and understanding washing over her. Florence saw through her defenses, recognizing the fear that had held Sydney captive for so long.

Having grown up without the safety of a family, Sydney had learned to tread carefully through life. She believed that every decision had to be calculated, every step taken with caution. In contrast, she observed how others, like Megan, would charge headfirst into challenges, oblivious to the potential consequences.

Florence’s heart ached for her. “Sydney, things don’t always unfold as negatively as we anticipate. Perhaps Julian will find a way to meet you halfway,” she said, her voice imbued with a hopeful tone.

At that moment, Raymond entered the room, carrying two glasses of water, and caught the tail end of their conversation.

“What middle ground?” he asked playfully, his curiosity piqued. “Is this about Jules?”

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