Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Sydney finds herself in a tense confrontation with Julian, grappling with the weight of a secret she can no longer keep. The intensity of Julian's gaze makes her feel guilty, as if she has wronged him. Despite not being asked directly, she resolves to share the truth, feeling that the burden of her secret is too heavy to bear.

Their exchange is charged with emotion, revealing Sydney's frustration and Julian's regret as they navigate the complexities of their relationship. As Sydney confronts Julian about his past actions, she expresses a desire for justice regarding the wrongdoings of his grandmother, Eloise. Her determination is palpable, and Julian's response surprises her as he offers to gather evidence against Eloise, indicating that he is willing to support her quest for accountability.

This moment deepens the emotional stakes, as Sydney grapples with the implications of Julian's familial ties and her fear of losing him. The contrast between their shared history and the current turmoil highlights the depth of their connection. Julian's insistence on their bond becomes a pivotal moment in the chapter. He recalls the countless days they've spent together, emphasizing that Sydney holds a unique place in his life that surpasses any familial obligation.

This revelation stirs a mix of emotions within Sydney, who struggles with her own insecurities and the fear that she may not be his priority. Julian's unwavering commitment and his gentle reassurances challenge her doubts, urging her to recognize her importance in his life. The chapter culminates in a tender yet playful moment when Julian's affectionate nickname for Sydney brings a sense of warmth and familiarity back into their interaction. Despite the heaviness of their previous conversation, the playful banter between them lightens the mood.

Their connection is solidified through a kiss, marking a moment of intimacy that contrasts with the earlier tension. This act serves as a reminder of their bond, suggesting that despite the challenges they face, their love is strong enough to withstand the storms of their past. Continue Regular Chapter Reading Below **When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 494** **Chapter 494** Sydney found herself momentarily lost in the depths of Julian's unwavering gaze.

It felt as if the weight of the world pressed down upon her, and guilt flickered within her like a candle struggling to stay lit in a storm. The intensity of his stare made her feel as though she were the one who had committed a grave error. "I was going to tell you," she managed to say, her voice barely above a whisper, yet laced with determination. Even though he hadn't directly asked her about it last night, she had resolved in her heart that she would share the truth with him. There was no way she could keep this secret any longer.

"When?" Julian's voice dripped with disbelief, and the surprise on his face mirrored the incredulity in his tone. For a moment, Sydney remained silent, the air between them thick with tension. Finally, she lifted her chin, her eyes meeting his with a fierce resolve. "And what explanation were you planning to give me? The same as last night? Just walking away without a word again?" The sharpness of her words cut through the silence, revealing the pain that lay just beneath her composed exterior. Julian's brow furrowed, a flicker of regret passing over his features.

stand up for Eloise. Her voice was steady, each word carefully chosen. "I want the person who did wrong to pay the price. That's not too much to ask, is it?" Her gaze was unwavering, filled with a fierce clarity that left no room for doubt. Julian felt a surge

become a force to be reckoned with, pushing him away and shutting him out of her life forever. Luckily, this was not a difficult question to answer. His hand, resting at her waist, slid upward, his fingers weaving through her hair as he murmured, "Not too much. If anything, it's far too mild." Her eyes widened in surprise, a glimmer of disbelief flashing across her features. "I can gather proof of her smuggling

unexpected response. She had anticipated that he might try to dissuade her, not that he would actively dig the grave himself, one so deep that no one could ever hope to see the bottom. When she finally found her voice, it trembled with disbelief. "Are you serious?" Julian's lips curled into a faint

gently guiding her gaze to meet his. "She doesn't have to be. I'm 31 years old. If you counted how many times I've seen Eloise or shared a meal with her, you could do it

about us? How many days have we spent together? Do you remember?" Her

Tell me, why would you think anyone could matter more than you?"

fell into the water, who would you save?" Now it all clicked into place-she had always been afraid that he wouldn't choose her. But how could he not? She had no idea how deeply she mattered to him. That was alright; he would remind her time and again until she believed it,

back up at him, her heart racing. She wanted to speak, but the words eluded her. Perhaps it was the events of nine years ago that had made her so cautious, so unsure. Even now, with the truth laid bare before her, she struggled to believe that she was the one he would always choose. After a lengthy silence, she sniffed lightly, her voice barely above a whisper. "Aren't you afraid people will talk? Say terrible things?" It could paint him as a man devoid of