Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Chapter 40 "Get your mistress and all the items you brought out of here. Now!" Alan thundered as he glanced toward the courtyard, his mustache bristling, eyes blazing with fury. "Don't think you can buy me off with petty favors." Once a teacher, always a mentor. Sydney was like a daughter to him. If he gave in now, it wouldn't stop with her. Eliana would come after him as well. "Dr. Conton, whatever terms you set, we'll accept." Penelope stepped forward and tucked her hair behind her ear, her tone soft and persuasive.

"Right, Caleb?" Alan fell silent, considering what herbs might erase the sight of them from his mind. Caleb addressed him with forced respect. "Dr. Conton, Penelope's right. We came here in good faith. 11 Alan heard the politeness but felt the heat of anger simmering beneath it. None of this felt fair to Sydney. "You'll accept any condition?" he asked. "Of course," Penelope said without hesitation. As a member of the powerful Hampton family, she believed Caleb would back her no matter what she promised. Alan stood and straightened his lapel. "Then go apologize to Sydney.

Once she accepts, you're welcome to return." "What did you say?" Penelope snapped, her cheeks flushed with fury. Sydney's words at the door still echoed in her ears. She turned to Alan, voice low and sharp. "Did Sydney say something about me? You can't believe anything she says-" "That's enough, Penelope," Caleb cut in gently. "Dr. Conton, thank you for your time. We'll take our leave." Penelope followed him out, reluctant and fuming. Once they were in the car with the doors shut, she muttered, "This is all Sydney's doing. She's always hated me.

Caleb's voice was calm, but cold. Penelope gripped the edge of her coat, while her eyes welled up with tears. "Why do you always take her side?" she demanded, her