Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Sydney experiences a moment of shock upon realizing that the elderly woman before her is Julian's grandmother, Agatha. The weight of this revelation causes her heart to race as she processes the implications of their familial connection. Despite her internal turmoil, Sydney maintains her composure, responding to Agatha's playful remarks about Julian holding her hand with grace.

This playful banter sets a lighthearted tone, but there's an underlying seriousness in Agatha's words that hints at her protective nature. As the dinner progresses, Sydney begins to connect the dots about the familiar tastes of the meals Julian has prepared for her, realizing they were Agatha's recipes all along. This leads to a moment of light-hearted teasing between Sydney and Julian, with Agatha encouraging Sydney to express her thoughts. The atmosphere shifts as Sydney gains confidence, asking Julian if he was aware of their connection.

His admission reveals that he has known all along, which surprises Sydney and adds a layer of intrigue to their relationship. After dinner, sensing the need for deeper conversation between Agatha and Julian, Sydney excuses herself. This act of selflessness allows the two to engage in a meaningful discussion. Agatha probes Julian about his feelings for Sydney, and he admits that he feels a deep connection with her, one that transcends mere friendship.

Their conversation reveals Julian's determination to protect Sydney, regardless of the challenges they may face, including her past marriage and the child she carries. Agatha expresses her concerns about the potential complications that could arise from Sydney's past, emphasizing the emotional toll a second failed marriage could have on her. Julian's unwavering conviction in his feelings for Sydney reassures Agatha, yet she remains cautious, recognizing the complexities of their situation.

This chapter encapsulates a blend of humor, warmth, and emotional depth as the characters navigate their relationships, laying the groundwork for future challenges and growth. Continue Regular Chapter Reading Below **When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 498** **Chapter 498** For a fleeting moment, Sydney found herself grappling with the astonishing realization that the elderly woman seated before her was none other than Julian's grandmother. The weight of the revelation hung in the air, making her heart race as she tried to process the implications.

Yet, she managed to compose herself and replied, "No, I don't mind at all." Her voice was steady, but inside, a storm of thoughts churned. Agatha let out a sigh of relief that seemed to release the tension in the room. Her sharp eyes then shifted to her grandson, a glint of mischief dancing within them. "How long do you plan on holding Sydney's hand, hm? Let the girl eat properly!" Her tone was playful, but there was an underlying seriousness that made it clear she meant what she said. Julian chuckled softly, his laughter infectious.

favorite." He gestured toward the spread laid out before them, a

could I have been so oblivious?' Julian caught her silent glare, a grin spreading across his face as he found amusement in her realization. "What? Go on, what do you want to scold me for?" he teased, his eyes sparkling with mischief. But with Agatha sitting right across from her,

with such blunt honesty that Sydney felt her cheeks flush crimson, and she instinctively ducked her head, feeling a mix of embarrassment and gratitude. Julian erupted into laughter, his joy infectious. "You heard her. So? What do you want to say?" His challenge hung

yet revealing response. 'A cunning fox, indeed,' she mused internally, a smirk creeping onto her lips. "When did you find out?" she pressed, intrigued. "Before my business trip to

dark,' she thought, her pout deepening as she realized the extent of his knowledge. This time, Sydney chose silence, but Agatha was not so

an unspoken need for more conversation between grandmother and grandson. She excused herself, claiming she had work to finish, and slipped back to her apartment across the hall, leaving them to their discussion. Once the door clicked shut, Julian rolled up his sleeves, a determined look crossing

Agatha's tone turned serious. "Sydney's the same girl you raised, isn't she?" she asked, her eyes piercing through him with an intensity that demanded an honest answer. He didn't shy away from the truth. "Yes," he replied, the weight of his admission settling heavily between them. So what if he had raised her? They weren't bound by blood, but the connection they shared felt deeper than mere genetics. Agatha gently took the dishes from his hands, her expression

brows knitting together in contemplation. "What's left to think through?" From the very first day he had brought that timid little girl into his home years ago, he had made a silent promise to himself: he would look after her for life. As they