Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Caleb is torn between his strained relationship with his mother, Adeline, and the familial obligations that pull him back home. Despite the tension that has developed over time, he decides to visit the Hampton estate during his lunch break, hoping to check on Adeline's well-being.

The atmosphere in the dining room is formal and tense, dominated by Dorothy's authoritative presence, which quickly escalates into conflict when Caleb arrives. Adeline's sharp words reveal her hurt and frustration, while Dorothy's fierce defense of Caleb as a true member of the family creates a rift between the women. As the conversation escalates, Caleb tries to mediate the situation, attempting to soothe Adeline and prevent further confrontation.

However, Dorothy's intervention only intensifies the emotional turmoil, as she chastises both Adeline and Penelope for their meddling in Caleb's affairs. The tension in the room is palpable, and Adeline's indignation simmers just beneath the surface. The arrival of Penelope's distress adds another layer to the gathering, as the family dynamics shift and the focus turns to her sudden illness, prompting Caleb to check on her.

When Penelope emerges from the bathroom, Caleb's concern quickly turns to suspicion regarding her health, leading to a tense exchange about the possibility of her being pregnant. The gravity of the situation weighs heavily on both characters, as Caleb's protective instincts clash with Penelope's defiance. The conversation reveals the complexity of their relationship and the underlying fears that both characters harbor. Caleb's insistence on taking her to the hospital underscores his concern, while Penelope's reluctance to admit her condition heightens the stakes.

The chapter culminates in Caleb's realization that the emotional turmoil surrounding Penelope may be linked to his past with Sydney, particularly a memory involving food that triggers distress in both women. This connection propels Caleb into action, driving him toward Lumosa Clinic in search of Sydney. The chapter leaves readers with a sense of urgency as Caleb's thoughts race, and the unfolding drama hints at deeper familial and personal conflicts that will continue to challenge him.

Continue Regular Chapter Reading Below **When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 384** **Chapter 384** Caleb found himself grappling with a familiar tug at his heart. Adeline was still, undeniably, his mother. Even though their relationship had become strained, he felt a pull to return home during his lunch break, hoping to check in on her well-being. The grand dining room of the Hampton estate was filled with an air of quiet formality, the kind that often cloaked family gatherings.

At first glance, one might have mistaken this assembly for a picture of familial tranquility. However, the moment Caleb stepped through the doorway, the fragile peace shattered like glass. Adeline's expression darkened, her features tightening into a mask of displeasure. "Didn't you declare you wanted nothing to do with me? What

rang out, filled with an authority that rarely surfaced. She slammed her palm against the table, the sound echoing ominously. "Even if he wishes to sever ties with you, this is still Cal's home. He carries the true blood of the

harsh proclamation felt like a dagger to her heart, stripping away any remnants of dignity she had left. It was as if Dorothy had implied that should Caleb choose to cut ties, it would be Adeline who would be cast out. "Grandma, please, don't get upset. Your blood pressure-" Caleb interjected softly, taking a seat at the table, his demeanor calm yet concerned. The maids rushed

firm and unyielding. "Accept the grace I'm extending to you and cease this bickering. Caleb has finally returned home for a meal, and you still wish to ignite a conflict?" She directed her piercing gaze at Adeline, the

meddling in his affairs." "Mother," Adeline protested, her voice tinged with rising frustration. "You don't understand! He's willing to jeopardize the entire Hampton legacy for that wretched girl-" Before Caleb could interject, Dorothy's voice sliced through the

her voice laced with disbelief. "Even if she had ten lives, she wouldn't dare carry a

even the faintest whiff of beans was enough to send her stomach into turmoil. She retched violently, the unpleasantness rising until bile burned her throat. Caleb stood outside the bathroom door, his gaze icy as he waited for her to emerge. When she finally did, his lips curled into a hard smile that didn't quite reach his eyes. "Pregnant?" Fear flickered across her features. "No, I'm not." "Are you absolutely sure?" His voice was sharp, slicing

Hampton family had their own private hospital, a place where secrets could be kept safe. Penelope's complexion drained of color. "Cal, I-" His smile faded, replaced by a serious demeanor. "What did I tell you before?" She swallowed hard, the weight of his gaze making her heart race. "Fine. I'll handle it myself." He

"Fish. Anything greasy, especially fatty meat." "Fatty meat?" he echoed, a frown creasing his brow. "Yes. Like braised pork. I used to love it, but now I can't stand the smell." The mention of pork hit Caleb like a physical blow, his expression hardening as shadows played across his face, darkening it