Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Chapter 42 "Mm." Caleb paused for just a moment before replying gently but firmly, "I have a meeting tomorrow afternoon. I might be late getting back." Sydney's heart sank. "I see..." "See what? Listen to everything I'm saying." His voice stayed steady and kind. "If I can't make it back in time to pick you up, could we meet at the Sterling estate instead?" Her shoulders relaxed, and a shy smile tugged at her lips. "Of course." It would be fine as long as she wouldn't have to go back alone. "Are you coming home soon?" he asked. She lowered her gaze. "Almost." Caleb smiled.

"I got you a small cake and put it in the fridge. Remember to eat it." Sydney froze. Extravagant gifts didn't surprise her, but a little cake just for her? That was something else. "Thank you, Cal," she said softly. Sadly, the warmth faded almost at once when she checked her socials. Penelope had posted something new. Penelope: [I casually mentioned this morning that I wanted a small cake, and he brought one home tonight!] That little slice of cake had probably been for her. Sydney tossed her phone onto the bed and dropped down beside it.

in her mind. In a rare moment of reflection, she thought of Eloise's early kindness. After her parents died, the two months she had spent in the orphanage had been dark and punishing At just five years old, she had already tasted loneliness. There had been

with Sydney, shredded the little dress her late mother had bought, hidden tacks in her shoes, drawn turtles on her face with markers, and even stolen the lucky charm she had been wearing since birth Sydney had told the teacher, but all the kids backed the girl Naturally, the teacher didn't believe her. She'd often sit alone behind the building, crying for the parents she missed so badly. That was when Eloise appeared. If

Julian opened his eyes in the backseat. The sharp edge in his gaze faded. A flicker of patience crossed his face as he prepared to step out. "Don't stay in the car too