Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 274

**When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You**

**Chapter 274**

As Sydney navigated the congested streets on her way to the Sterling estate, her mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and calculations. The clock was ticking, and she mentally assessed how much time she truly needed to complete her project with urgency. The moment she crossed the finish line, the Sterling family would lose their grip on her life. With Tiffany by her side, she envisioned a life far removed from their scheming—perhaps a quiet retreat overseas, away from the prying eyes of those who had caused her so much distress. The thought of never having to witness their manipulations around Tiffany again filled her with a sense of determination.

Yet, a nagging question lingered in her mind: why did power and class create such cruel divisions among people, relegating them into rigid ranks and castes? It seemed unjust that ordinary individuals had to expend every ounce of their strength just to scrape by, while others lived in luxury, untouched by the struggles of the everyday world.

After what felt like an eternity inching through the evening traffic, Sydney finally arrived at the Sterling estate, over an hour later than she had anticipated. She stepped into the reception hall, her handbag clutched tightly in her hand, and immediately spotted Charlotte seated elegantly next to Eloise.

*So, that’s tonight’s guest,* she mused, a mix of curiosity and apprehension swirling within her.

Eloise, whose expression usually bore the sharp edges of disapproval, wore an uncharacteristic gentleness on her face as she regarded Charlotte. Clearly, the presence of her future daughter-in-law brought a sense of satisfaction to Eloise that Sydney had seldom witnessed.

“Grandmother,” Sydney greeted, her voice steady, though her heart raced slightly.

Perhaps Charlotte’s presence softened Eloise’s demeanor, for she managed to muster a hint of warmth. “You’re here. We’ve been waiting for you to start dinner,” she said, her tone a blend of expectation and relief.

Charlotte turned to Sydney with a light smile. “Syd, stuck in traffic?”

“Ms. Lindstrom, the rush hour was heavy,” she replied, trying to keep her tone professional despite the tension in the air.

At that moment, Eloise shot her a disapproving look. “What Ms. Lindstrom? This is your future sister-in-law,” she reprimanded, her voice laced with authority.

“Let’s wait until I actually marry Julian before calling it that,” Charlotte interjected smoothly, her smile unwavering. “And if I’m to be addressed as sister-in-law, I’ll need to hand over a gift. I didn’t bring one today.”

Before Eloise could retort, Jason entered the room, announcing dinner with a flourish.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify