Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Caleb decides to avoid a gathering where Penelope's presence could exacerbate the drama surrounding the Hampton family. After attending Albus's birthday celebration the previous day, he feels a sense of dread about the unfolding events, especially with the police arriving at the scene.

Adeline, representing the family's interests, is visibly shaken by the police presence, fearing the repercussions of Penelope's reckless behavior amidst ongoing scrutiny from both the Huttons and Brimcrest. As the police approach, Penelope's anxiety escalates; she frantically searches for her ally, Megan, who is nowhere to be found.

The arrival of law enforcement signals the gravity of the situation, especially concerning Sydney's recent car accident, which is now revealed to be linked to a "premeditated assault." Diana, aware of the situation, insists that the police address the matter immediately, intensifying the tension. Sydney's cold demeanor towards Penelope highlights the animosity brewing between them, as Penelope realizes the severity of her actions and the potential consequences she faces.

Adeline's internal conflict surfaces as she grapples with her loyalty to the family and the undeniable truth that Penelope's actions could jeopardize them all. She advises Penelope to cooperate with the police, recognizing that the Huttons' influence will not allow for any favoritism. Despite her maternal instincts, Adeline feels powerless to protect Penelope this time, knowing that crossing the Huttons could lead to disastrous consequences for the entire Hampton family. As the police prepare to take Penelope away, her panic intensifies.

She reflects on her reckless decisions, particularly the attack on Sydney, which she believed would secure her victory. The realization that her life is about to change forever looms over her, as she understands that even if she avoids prison, the stigma of a criminal record will haunt her future. The chapter concludes with a palpable sense of dread, as Penelope's fate hangs in the balance and the weight of her actions crashes down on her. Continue Regular Chapter Reading Below **Chapter 437** Caleb had resolutely decided that he would not grace the gathering with Penelope's presence again.

Yesterday, he had dutifully paid his respects and extended his early birthday wishes to Albus. Today, however, he conjured an excuse to keep himself away from the unfolding drama. The Hampton family had never formally severed ties, and Adeline's mere presence was enough to represent the family's interests. She was the embodiment of their collective spirit, a shield against any external scrutiny. As she caught sight of the police officers making their way down the hall, Adeline's expression shifted dramatically, darkening like a storm cloud.

done now?' she thought, her mind racing with dread. The thought of Penelope's reckless behavior sent a wave of humiliation crashing over her. The Hamptons were already under scrutiny in Brimcrest, and now they had to contend with the Huttons as well. Penelope's complexion paled, fear gripping her heart. Instinctively, she began to scan the crowd for Megan,

had been given, no plan had been devised-nothing to prepare her for this moment. In the back garden, Florence, who had been enjoying a moment of peace, heard the commotion and felt a ripple of concern. A maid gently wheeled her toward Diana, curiosity etched on her face.

the Hutton estate. Out of a sense of courtesy, they had inquired whether they should wait until after Albus's birthday celebration to address the matter. Without hesitation, Diana had responded, "No. Handle it now." It was in that moment that Sydney fully grasped the implication of the "premeditated assault" they had mentioned earlier;

a real letdown." No wonder Penelope had appeared so stunned moments ago. She had likely believed that Sydney was still lying unconscious in a hospital bed, unable to defend herself. Penelope's fingers trembled uncontrollably, a physical manifestation of her rising panic. She was acutely aware of how fiercely the Huttons protected Sydney and how Adeline had once gone to great lengths to defend her against the Sterlings. There was no way Adeline would risk crossing the Huttons this time. "I..." Penelope stammered, her

aware of it or not, you will have the opportunity to explain everything at the station." Panic surged within Penelope, clawing at her throat as she turned to Adeline, desperation etched across her features. "I truly didn't do anything!"

never have arrived at this event. Thus, she instinctively distanced herself from Penelope. "Cooperate with the investigation. If you're innocent, no one will wrong you." Inside, a fire of fury burned within Adeline. Penelope had a

that didn't quite reach her eyes. "Mrs. Hutton, please don't fret. The Hampton family stands firmly with justice, not favoritism. If she is involved, we will not defend her." In other words, she was signaling, "Do what