Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 485

**When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 485**

**Chapter 485**

“No!” Eloise’s voice erupted, sharp and piercing, almost echoing off the sterile walls of the hospital room.

This was not the moment for Victor to uncover the truth about his lineage. She could feel the tension in the air, thick and suffocating. That boy was nothing like Julian. He lacked the calm demeanor and self-control that Julian had always exhibited. If Victor stumbled upon this truth too soon, chaos would unfurl like a dark storm, consuming everything in its path.

Eloise lifted her chin, locking her eyes with Julian’s. In that instant, a wave of genuine regret crashed over her, overwhelming and relentless. How could she have allowed him to survive? She should have let him perish alongside his parents back then. If only she hadn’t faltered in that fleeting moment of weakness, she wouldn’t be staring down the barrel of this rabid wolf today.

But now was not the time to reveal her true nature. Grinding her teeth together until her jaw throbbed, she fought to keep her voice steady, even managing to force a smile that felt more like a grimace.

“How did you know I met him?” she asked, her tone deceptively light, concealing the tempest of emotions swirling within her.

Or perhaps the real question was: how long had he been aware of her connection with Flint? She had believed she had concealed it adeptly, like a magician hiding a trick up her sleeve.

Julian’s response was as flat and cold as ice. “When I ask you something, just answer it.”

Fury coursed through her veins, causing her fingers to tremble involuntarily. ‘Does this ungrateful brat even comprehend who he is addressing? Even if I am not his biological grandmother, I was his grandfather’s lawful wife! And this parentless wretch dares to speak to me like that? Where are his manners? Where is his shame?’

Drawing in a sharp breath, she fought against the urge to scream, the frustration bubbling just beneath the surface.

“He didn’t say anything,” she retorted, her voice laced with irritation. “I simply met with him. Since when do I, as an elder, require your permission to see someone?”

“In the past, you didn’t,” Julian replied, a lazy half-smile playing on his lips, as if he found amusement in her indignation. “But from now on, you’d better check with me first.”

Without waiting for her to respond, he turned on his heel, ignoring the way her complexion drained of color, fury etched across her features. He picked up the signed contract, the weight of it heavy in the air, and strode toward the door with an air of finality.

As soon as he stepped out, the atmosphere in the corridor shifted. Everyone froze, a mix of apprehension and relief washing over them. Part of the group feared he might emerge looking for a fight, while the others felt a sense of relief that he had exited so quickly, suggesting that the conversation had not delved into serious matters. If it had been about inheritance, he would have lingered.

Elliot caught Julian’s gaze and quickly fell into step beside him as they made their way toward the elevator.

Yet, not everyone could suppress their resentment.

“Jules’ temper is getting worse,” Natalie muttered, her brow furrowed with concern.

“Enough,” Miranda interjected quietly, her voice steady. “Let’s check on Mother.”

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify