Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Chapter 629

Sydney turned around and saw Alan. She rubbed her nose in awkward reflex and wished she could crawl into a crack in the ground.

By contrast, Julian remained as thick skinned as ever. He lifted a brow. "The way you put it, Alan, you make it sound like I'm some kind of bad influence."

Alan did not bother to reply. His expression clearly said, "Aren't you?"

Sydney swallowed her embarrassment and, with Julian's support, stood up. "Why did you come over today? How's Eliana doing?"

She had planned to go to the hospital after breakfast to see Eliana, but Alan had shut that down without discussion. He insisted that she rest properly, and he did so with such firmness that it felt as if he would disown her on the spot if she dared show up.

“She's basically fine," Alan said. “She's just worried about you. She kept pushing me to come check on you.”

He walked over to another wicker chair and sat down, then reached out his hand. "Let me see."

Sydney knew exactly what he meant. She hesitated, then offered her wrist. "It's really nothing serious. I just need to rest for a while and..."

expression darkened. He looked up at her guilty face

worn herself down worrying over Eliana's

and Eliana spoiled Sydney too much, treating her almost like their own daughter. Over the years, their only son had remained abroad. The one who stayed close, handled matters personally, and never stepped away had

himself, finished checking her pulse, and slowly withdrew his hand. "You've been

prenatal vitamins with folic acid, and progesterone support,” Sydney said.

Alan frightened her more.

Alan said, "Magnesium at

Any hesitation

Alan had lectured her more than once for neglecting her own

sat with Julian, drank coffee, and talked about projects. The atmosphere felt calm,

but he barely spoke to

with a smile. "Sydney, the Hutton family is

yesterday that she would

as she stood. Just as she prepared to speak to Alan, he set down his cup and

greet your guests. It's time for me to head back