Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 437

**Chapter 437**

Caleb had resolutely decided that he would not grace the gathering with Penelope’s presence again. Yesterday, he had dutifully paid his respects and extended his early birthday wishes to Albus. Today, however, he conjured an excuse to keep himself away from the unfolding drama.

The Hampton family had never formally severed ties, and Adeline’s mere presence was enough to represent the family’s interests. She was the embodiment of their collective spirit, a shield against any external scrutiny.

As she caught sight of the police officers making their way down the hall, Adeline’s expression shifted dramatically, darkening like a storm cloud. ‘What on earth has that fool done now?’ she thought, her mind racing with dread. The thought of Penelope’s reckless behavior sent a wave of humiliation crashing over her. The Hamptons were already under scrutiny in Brimcrest, and now they had to contend with the Huttons as well.

Penelope’s complexion paled, fear gripping her heart. Instinctively, she began to scan the crowd for Megan, her supposed ally. That woman had promised to stand by her side, yet now, as the police arrived, Megan was conspicuously absent. No warning had been given, no plan had been devised—nothing to prepare her for this moment.

In the back garden, Florence, who had been enjoying a moment of peace, heard the commotion and felt a ripple of concern.

A maid gently wheeled her toward Diana, curiosity etched on her face. “What’s going on?” she inquired, her voice steady despite the anxiety bubbling beneath the surface.

“It’s about Sydney’s car accident,” Diana replied, her tone even and composed. “The driver has confessed.”

Diana had received the call just half an hour prior. The police had already tracked Penelope to the Hutton estate. Out of a sense of courtesy, they had inquired whether they should wait until after Albus’s birthday celebration to address the matter.

Without hesitation, Diana had responded, “No. Handle it now.”

It was in that moment that Sydney fully grasped the implication of the “premeditated assault” they had mentioned earlier; it referred to her own accident. A sharp, icy laugh escaped her lips as she locked eyes with Penelope. “I must be quite the sight for you, huh? Seeing me standing here must be a real letdown.”

No wonder Penelope had appeared so stunned moments ago. She had likely believed that Sydney was still lying unconscious in a hospital bed, unable to defend herself.

Penelope’s fingers trembled uncontrollably, a physical manifestation of her rising panic. She was acutely aware of how fiercely the Huttons protected Sydney and how Adeline had once gone to great lengths to defend her against the Sterlings. There was no way Adeline would risk crossing the Huttons this time.

“I…” Penelope stammered, her voice barely a whisper. “I don’t know anything about this premeditated assault you’re talking about.”

The lead officer spoke with unwavering authority. “Ms. Monroe, we wouldn’t be here if we didn’t already possess evidence. Whether you are aware of it or not, you will have the opportunity to explain everything at the station.”

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify