Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Chapter 147 Johnson Conton was Alan and Eliana's only son. Sydney sipped her tea. "That's fine. I'll pick up some local specialties for you two to bring back." Eliana patted her head. "And what about you? Will you come with us this year?" She sometimes admired Sydney's thoughtfulness, yet other times pitied how alone and restrained she always seemed. Every year they invited Sydney to spend the holiday with them. Still, she knew Johnson and his family only came home once a year, so she always waited until the second day to visit.

This year, though, the house would be emptier than ever after her divorce from Caleb. Sydney only smiled. "I think I'll stay. I could use the downtime to rethink my research plan." The treatment was working for now, but the side effects still troubled her. She wanted to improve it. "You could still work on it if you came with us..." Eliana fretted. "That's enough," Alan cut in gently. "You know her temperament. She wouldn't feel comfortable tagging along. Better we stock up food for her before we go. Make extra of those snacks she likes.

Meatballs, fried meat..." "Alan..." Sydney ducked her head, embarrassed. "Fine, fine," Eliana said quickly, giving Sydney a mock glare. "Happy now?" "Very happy." Sydney leaned against her arm with affection. "Thank you, Eliana." Before long, her eyes slid shut, and she drifted into a deep sleep. Eliana smiled and glanced at Alan, gesturing for silence. Alan chuckled. "After running herself ragged on that project and drinking too? Not even thunder could wake her now." "Yeah. She's hopeless with alcohol," Marcus added as he placed a chess piece.

dim. Rubbing her eyes, she sat up