Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Chapter 22 Penelope pressed, "Then when are you going to divorce her?" 'Divorce...' Caleb had been hearing that word more than any other lately. Everyone seemed to believe that leaving Sydney was the only right thing to do. But whenever he heard it, something tightened in his chest, cutting off his breath. He couldn't explain it. Maybe it was because a divorce now would rattle Hampton Corp.'s stock. Maybe it would damage Penelope's reputation. Either way, he was certain of one thing-he couldn't get divorced.

Without thinking, he said, "Not now, not ever." The next morning, Sydney stirred and checked the time. Caleb's message flashed across her screen. Caleb: [What's the matter? I'll talk to you when I get home tomorrow.] She understood. He didn't want her making a scene in front of Penelope. He was probably worried she'd show up and hurl another IV pole at Penelope's head. Still, that message was enough. Once he came home and they had that conversation, she could finally leave this house that had long since stopped feeling like home. She got dressed, calm and resolved.

But just as she stepped out of the walk-in closet, she paused. Caleb had never spoiled her with affection, but as the Hampton daughter-in-law, she'd occasionally accompanied him to formal events where a wife's presence was expected. Her closet overflowed with designer gowns, fine jewelry, and expensive bags. The Hamptons had money to burn. After the divorce, most of it would end up where it belonged-in the trash. So why not put it to better use? 1/3 Sun 24 Aug Chapter 22 89% +15 BONUS Sydney contacted a charity.

short. Caleb's mother, Adeline Mayer, sat primly on the sofa in a tailored Chanel suit, her expression ice-cold. Sydney blinked. "Mom? What brings