Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 335

**When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 335**

**Chapter 335**

Penelope’s heart raced as she caught the flicker of uncertainty in Caleb’s eyes. It was a fleeting moment, but she seized it with fervor. “I’m telling you, Sydney was born an enchantress. God knows how many men she’s been with—”

Before her words could fully escape her lips, Caleb’s hand shot out like a viper, gripping her jaw with a force that silenced her. His gaze was a storm of fury, dark and unyielding. “If you’re looking to join my elder brother in the grave sooner rather than later, just say the word! You of all people should know that I don’t go easy on women.”

With a forceful shove, he slammed her against the cold metal of the car, his presence towering and intimidating. Without a single glance back, he strode away, leaving her breathless and shaken.

The impact sent a jolt of pain through Penelope’s back, but it was the icy grip of fear that truly constricted her chest. Perhaps provoking Caleb had been a grave mistake, one she wouldn’t soon repeat.

As his car sped away, she steadied herself against the vehicle, took a deep breath, and made her way into the sprawling Hampton estate, her mind racing with the confrontation.

Inside, Timothy, her bright-eyed son, abandoned his toys in a whirlwind of excitement and dashed towards her. “Mommy! Dinner!” he exclaimed, his voice ringing with innocent joy.

“Yes, let’s eat,” she replied, forcing a smile as she lovingly ruffled his hair. Together, they made their way to the dining room, where the atmosphere felt heavy with unspoken tension.

With Adeline absent and Dorothy never partaking in dinner, the table was set for just Penelope and Timothy, a stark reminder of the family dynamics that often left her feeling isolated.

The maids began to serve the dishes, and as Penelope pulled out her chair, a pungent, fishy odor assaulted her senses. Her stomach churned violently, and without a second thought, she bolted for the bathroom, retching until her throat felt raw and scorched.

Upon her return, her pale face reflected her distress, and her eyes fell upon a platter of steamed fish that seemed to mock her. Fury ignited within her. “What’s the meaning of this? My mother-in-law and grandmother don’t eat, so you think you can throw scraps at us? Such a simple dish, and you’ve made it this foul!” she spat, her voice sharp as a knife.

The kitchen staff froze, their expressions a mix of shock and fear. “M-Madam, we would never slight you or your son. Today’s preparation was exactly the same as usual,” one of them stammered, clearly flustered.

“What do you mean by that?” Her laughter was cold, devoid of warmth. “Are you accusing me of finding fault for nothing?”

“N-No, of course not…” the maid replied, her voice trembling.

“Then why are you still standing here? Whoever cooked tonight, pack your things and leave!” Penelope’s words sliced through the air, and only after unleashing her fury did she feel the tightness in her chest begin to ease, if only slightly.

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