Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Penelope boldly declares her desire to marry Caleb, a wish that fills her with both hope and trepidation. She understands the challenges she faces, feeling isolated and powerless against the forces that could thwart her ambitions. However, she believes that with Eloise's support, who is also seeking to reclaim her position at Sterling Corp., she might navigate the complexities of their world and secure a future with Caleb.

The thought of having Caleb's child adds urgency to her longing for marriage, transforming it from a distant dream into a tangible goal. Eloise's reaction to Penelope's declaration is cold and calculating, revealing her own desperation after losing a significant amount of money and facing potential disgrace. While she agrees to support Penelope, her warning is stark: any misstep could lead to severe consequences.

This interaction underscores the high stakes involved, as both women are entangled in a web of ambition and rivalry, with Eloise's determination to see Sydney and Julian fall adding an ominous layer to their plans. Penelope's resolve hardens as she vows to do whatever it takes to bring down Sydney, despite the fear that grips her. Meanwhile, Sydney grapples with her own anxieties as she prepares for an important press conference. While her research data is promising, the pressure of public speaking weighs heavily on her.

Marcus, her supportive colleague, encourages her to embrace her talents and face the spotlight, reminding her that success will overshadow any shortcomings in her presentation. Their exchange reveals Sydney's vulnerability and the fears that accompany her ambition, highlighting the emotional toll of striving for success in a competitive environment. As Sydney reflects on the potential pitfalls of her ascent, she acknowledges the ever-present threat posed by Penelope and the Sterlings. Marcus reassures her of his unwavering support, emphasizing that she is not alone in her journey.

This bond between them serves as a source of strength for Sydney, reminding her of the importance of collaboration and friendship in the face of adversity. The chapter closes with a sense of camaraderie and determination, as both women navigate their intertwined fates, driven by ambition, rivalry, and the complex emotions that accompany their aspirations.

to You** "I want to marry Caleb," Penelope declared, her voice trembling slightly as she spoke the words that had been swirling in her mind for weeks. In her solitude, she recognized the futility of her desire. Alone, she stood no chance against the formidable

can agree to," she replied, her tone laced with a chilling detachment. "But let me make one thing abundantly clear," she

public disgrace of Sydney and Julian. If that didn't happen, she would take matters into her own hands. She would reclaim the lost money from the Hamptons and ensure that Penelope's life was extinguished. Under Eloise's sharp, unrelenting gaze, Penelope fought to maintain her composure, even as dread pooled in her stomach. She forced out a laugh, trying to mask her fear. "I

involved." What Eloise valued most was Penelope's seething hatred for Sydney-a potent fuel that could drive someone to be decisive and merciless in pursuit of their goals. Meanwhile, in the lab,

conference speech?" The final batch of clinical data had arrived that very morning, and the results were nothing short of impeccable. Thus, the only thing weighing heavily on her mind had to be that daunting speech. Sydney rested her chin on her hand, her brow furrowing deeper. "I honestly don't even know where to start." She thrived in the world of research, buried in data and analysis, not standing in the glaring

glow of admiration. Sydney pressed her lips together, a hint of desperation creeping into her voice. "Marc, can't you just give the speech for me?" "Syd, you can't hide behind the curtain forever," he said, a