Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Chapter 32 Sydney did not speak after getting into the car. She sat quietly, leaning against the seat, her on the passing street scenes outside the window. eyes fixed In the four years they had known each other, she had proven sensible and resilient. She resembled a sturdy evening primrose, blooming despite wind and rain. But now, something felt different. She remained silent, and Marcus sensed her sadness. At a red light, he gently tapped the brakes and asked, "Are you okay?" The truth was that she was not okay. Julian had seemed so calm, as if nothing had happened.

It felt like she was the clingy or petty one. Meanwhile, he had moved on. Sydney rarely revealed her emotions, so she forced a smile and said, "I'm fine." He hesitated, then spoke softly. "If something's bothering you, you can tell me." He did not press further but warned, "Going head-on with Julian won't end well for you." That simple statement cut deep. Her emotions swirled before she whispered, "I know." She did not fully understand why she stayed composed after Caleb's betrayal, yet lost control so easily with Julian. Later at home, she recounted the moment to Tiffany.

Without hesitation, her friend moved the case files on the coffee table and said knowingly, "You know why, right? You trusted Julian completely for nine years. With Caleb, you only tried. But he let you down." She sipped her coffee, wagging a finger for emphasis. "You never fully gave him your heart, and he refused to accept it." Then she delivered her verdict. "It all comes down to emotional sunk cost. That phrase echoed in Sydney's mind as she lay in bed that night.

gathered around a gambling table. Bruce Wilhelm frowned at Caleb and said, "Forget history. You fought over Penelope, and now you want Sydney to clean up after both of you? Are you insane? How is this any different from having