Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 434

**When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 434**

**Chapter 434**

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In a world filled with shadows and whispers, Sydney found herself acutely aware of the few individuals who might dare to target her with such fervor. It was a short list, and she could almost recite their names in her sleep.

First on that list was Penelope. Sydney knew Penelope well enough to understand that while she possessed a sharp mind and a fierce determination, she lacked the necessary resources and influence to sway public opinion on a grand scale. Penelope was a small fish in a vast ocean, and Sydney felt a twinge of pity for her.

Then there was Tristan. Memories of the past flooded Sydney’s mind as she thought of him. Years ago, DK Pharma had constructed its international reputation on a foundation of hype and controversy, skillfully navigating the treacherous waters of media manipulation. They were experts at wielding public sentiment like a weapon, creating storms that could engulf anyone in their path.

If Tristan truly had ties to Flint, this would be far more than a mere business rivalry. It was personal. A chill ran down her spine at the thought. He was coming for her, and Sterling Corp. would be nothing more than collateral damage in his quest.

Before Julian stood a woman who appeared as though she had just emerged from the depths of sleep. Her dark, silky hair cascaded over her shoulders, framing her delicate features. Sydney’s eyes were still clouded with remnants of dreams, and her cheeks bore a faint blush that hinted at vulnerability. She looked obedient, almost fragile, like a porcelain doll that could shatter with the slightest touch.

Julian’s gaze swept over her, lingering on her bare feet, and his brows knitted together in concern. “Aren’t you cold?” he asked, his voice a mixture of curiosity and worry.

“Huh?” Sydney had steeled herself for a barrage of sharp words, the kind that could slice through her pride like a knife. She had even rehearsed her defenses, ready to counter any attack. But his question caught her off guard, leaving her momentarily speechless.

It seemed Julian wasn’t interested in delving into the crisis just yet. He brushed past her with an ease that suggested he was already accustomed to her presence, picked up the slippers resting by the bed, and placed them gently by her feet.

“Cold starts from the feet,” he stated matter-of-factly. “Put them on.”

It took her a moment to process his words.

As a child, she had adored cold drinks, indulging in them so often that her monthly cramps became unbearable. The pain would leave her curled up in bed for hours, wishing for relief.

Alan had always treated her with care, warning her against too much ice cream and insisting she keep her feet warm. She had brushed off his advice, convinced that she knew better.

But Julian, unlike Alan, had an uncanny ability to remember the smallest details. He had established rules for her: no cold drinks in winter, limited ones in summer, and absolutely no walking barefoot on tile floors.

For a fleeting moment, Sydney’s mind went blank as she stared at the slippers. With a resigned sigh, she slipped them on, muttering under her breath, “I’m pregnant, not on my period.”

With no one around to chastise her, she had long abandoned her cautiousness. If cramps ever did strike, she would simply resort to acupuncture or a herbal decoction. Problem solved, or so she thought.

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