Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 319

**When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 319**

**Chapter 319**

Eloise had faced her fair share of indignities in life, but nothing compared to the public humiliation she felt now, especially not from someone of the younger generation like Sydney. The very thought made her blood boil. Grinding her teeth, she shot Sydney a glare that could have withered a garden. Her complexion was ashen, a stark contrast to the anger brewing within her. “What have you been saying about our family?” she spat, her voice laced with venom. “Why does everyone believe we mistreat you day after day?”

James, ever the voice of reason yet tinged with an underlying tension, interjected smoothly. “Madam Sterling,” he began, his tone polite yet sharp enough to cut through the air, “when your behavior is as transparent as it is, do you truly believe the outside world will remain oblivious?”

The impact of his words hit her like a slap across the face, leaving her momentarily stunned. As he spoke, he stepped forward, positioning himself deliberately between Eloise and Sydney, effectively shielding the younger girl from the brunt of Eloise’s fury.

Sydney stood there, momentarily dazed by the tall figure who had just become her protector. The scene tugged at her memories, reminding her of her childhood, a time when she was six or seven, and Julian had stood before her in a similar fashion, a stalwart guardian against the dangers of the world. He had led her back into the safety of the courtyard, a moment she cherished deeply.

Now, however, James felt more like the older brother she had always longed for—the kind of brother she used to envy in her friends, the ones who had siblings to share their secrets and laughter with. Back then, she often wished for a companion, someone to fill the void left by her parents when they left for work, leaving her to navigate the world alone.

Eloise, on the other hand, felt a surge of blood rush to her throat, a sensation almost suffocating in its intensity.

What right did the Huttons have to intrude upon her life in Jouleston?

First, it was Julian, openly defying her authority, and now another young upstart was treating her as if she were inconsequential. One by one, they all seemed to side with that dead girl, as if she were some sort of specter haunting her existence.

Seeing her fall silent, James allowed a faint smile to play on his lips, a hint of satisfaction at her inability to respond. “You can’t even muster a simple assurance?” he asked, his tone teasing yet firm.

“Madam…” Jason murmured, his voice low and warning as he stood beside her. “For now, just bow your head. We can handle the rest later.”

Eloise inhaled deeply, her breath trembling. “You expect me to bow to someone from the younger generation?” she retorted, incredulous at the very notion.

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