Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 504

**When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You**
**by Aurelia**
**Novel 504**

**Chapter 504**

As the clock struck noon, James found himself occupied with business matters not far from the clinic. Once his tasks were completed, a spontaneous thought crossed his mind: why not invite Sydney for lunch? It would be a pleasant way to transition back to Seraph Villa together afterward, an opportunity he was eager to seize.

Sydney, on the other hand, was caught off guard by the unexpected arrival of Charlotte that day. In a perfect world, it should have been her treating Charlotte and her grandmother to a delightful meal, an act of kindness she had planned. However, with James already waiting, the idea of bringing along friends and elders felt inappropriate for what was clearly intended as a private gathering.

Charlotte, ever perceptive, noticed Sydney’s moment of hesitation immediately and flashed her a bright smile. “You squeezed my grandmother in at the last minute, so I should be the one treating you to lunch. But since you have plans already, let’s just consider this a rain check, shall we?”

“Okay,” Sydney replied, her smile widening. With that, the three of them exited the clinic, the atmosphere buzzing with a light camaraderie.

As they turned the corner, Sydney’s gaze fell on James, who stood a few paces away from the nurses’ station. The autumn air had turned crisp, and he wore a dark gray trench coat that accentuated his tall, lean figure, making him appear even more striking against the backdrop of the bustling hospital lobby. His refined features effortlessly drew the eye, yet he lacked the aloofness often associated with men of his background, which made him all the more approachable.

In the midst of the busy hospital lobby, he exuded a calmness that seemed almost magnetic. Even the young nurses stationed behind the counter couldn’t help but steal glances at him, their curiosity piqued.

The moment Sydney’s eyes locked onto him, he seemed to sense her presence. He looked up, a warm smile spreading across his face. “Off work already, Sydney?” he inquired, his voice smooth and inviting.

“James,” she said, her smile deepening as she took two quick steps toward him, eager to close the distance.

Charlotte had crossed paths with James a few times through the longstanding collaboration between Sterling Corp. and Hutton Corp. Among all the business figures she had encountered, he stood out distinctly. Born into privilege, he carried himself with a refreshing lack of arrogance that made him approachable.

Yet, she hadn’t anticipated the level of familiarity between him and Sydney.

Gathering her composure, Charlotte greeted him politely, “Mr. Hutton.”

“Hello,” he replied, nodding courteously before his gaze shifted back to Sydney. He could easily tell that the two women shared a close bond, though the extent of their relationship remained somewhat of a mystery to him.

Sydney caught the unspoken question in his eyes and smiled knowingly. “She’s a friend. Came with her grandmother to see me.”

“Ah,” James responded, his expression softening. “Then how about joining us for lunch? I already reserved a private room.”

His tone was genuine, a clear indication that his invitation stemmed from a place of sincerity rather than mere politeness.

Given their familiarity, Sydney felt no need for formalities. She turned to Charlotte, but the latter was already shaking her head, a smile on her face as she waved her hands dismissively.

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