Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Sydney is in a reflective state as she sits in a white sedan, her thoughts swirling with uncertainty and pressure. James, preparing to leave, is interrupted by Raymond, who approaches with curiosity about Sydney and the dinner they just shared. Their conversation is laced with sarcasm and unspoken tensions, revealing the complex dynamics of their relationships and the weight of familial expectations that Raymond feels.

He is caught between his desires and the legacy of his family, indicating a struggle for identity. As the dialogue unfolds, James remains protective of Sydney, deflecting Raymond's probing questions about their discussion. This exchange highlights James's instinct to shield Sydney from gossip and judgment, showcasing his loyalty amidst the backdrop of Raymond's internal conflict regarding his family's influence and the impending arrival of Diana Hutton.

Raymond's apprehension about Diana's presence adds a layer of tension, suggesting that his feelings for her are complicated by the expectations tied to their family names. The chapter shifts focus to Sydney, who is grappling with her own emotional turmoil after a significant encounter. The file she possesses symbolizes the burden of her decisions and the fear of facing her parents, particularly Julian. Her internal struggle is palpable as she questions how to justify her choices, feeling overwhelmed by the weight of uncertainty and the challenge of confronting the Sterlings.

This moment captures her vulnerability and the emotional stakes of her situation, emphasizing her sense of isolation. As Sydney sits in her car, she is startled by an unexpected visitor, which momentarily grounds her in the chaos of her thoughts. The familiarity of the voice brings a sense of comfort, contrasting with her earlier feelings of despair. This encounter hints at the potential for connection amidst her struggles, suggesting that even in moments of uncertainty, support can emerge unexpectedly.

The chapter ends with a sense of anticipation, leaving readers eager to see how these relationships will evolve and how Sydney will navigate her challenges. Continue Regular Chapter Reading Below ### When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 342 Chapter 342 As the white sedan glided out of the parking lot, Sydney settled into the car, her mind still swirling with thoughts. It was only then that James felt ready to make his own exit.

He turned the key in the ignition, the engine rumbling to life, but just as he was about to pull away, a sharp rap on his window interrupted him. With a slight frown, he rolled down the glass, peering out to see Raymond standing there, an inquisitive look on his face. "Is the hospital work so relaxed now? Off duty at this hour?" James quipped, a hint of sarcasm lacing his words. Raymond chuckled softly, but deep down, he felt the weight of his family's expectations. They had allowed him to pursue a career in medicine, but he sensed their disapproval lurking just beneath the surface.

his fingers rhythmically against the steering wheel, his gaze fixed ahead. "Weren't you and Julian

remained silent for a moment, his expression unreadable. "Who told you to pry into gossip?" he shot

it be?" he said, throwing Julian under the proverbial bus without a second thought. "Project matters," James replied coolly, his tone shifting as he instinctively shielded Sydney's privacy. Then, with a hint of seriousness, he added, "You've stopped seeing that Voss girl, right? Diana will be

the weight of the Hutton family legacy loomed large in his mind. When it came to the eldest daughter of the illustrious Hutton family, Raymond wasn't the only one who knew to tread carefully. The entire clan, from the matriarchs to the tiniest turtles in the courtyard pond, bowed to her whims. With a determined nod, James started the car. Just as he was about to accelerate, Raymond blurted out, "Bro, do you think I could marry her if I weren't a Hutton?"

and concern evident in his eyes. "Keep your head clear. I'll pretend I didn't hear that." To

of business, all so he could bask in the family's reputation while pursuing his own whims. His grandparents and parents doted on him, their youngest grandchild, the baby of the family after their fifth child. If

reminder of the summer that was just beginning to unfurl its petals. As Raymond stood there, the darkness wrapping around him like a cloak, his expression flickered for a brief moment-an unguarded glimpse of vulnerability-before he reasserted his usual composed elegance. With unhurried grace, he strolled back into the restaurant, each step deliberate, as if he were on an important mission. At Haven... After navigating the twists