Chapter 12
Many found traditional medicine dull and dry, but Sydney loved it. There was no way she
would part with this wall of books. Not a chance.
She headed to the storage room, grabbed some cardboard boxes, and began packing her medical books to send to Tiffany’s place. Caleb’s mind was never on her. Even if a few things
disappeared from her room, he would never notice.
She was in the middle of organizing when her phone rang. The caller ID showed “Little Old
Man“-her mentor, Alan Conton.
Four years ago, she had been ready to join Jouleston Hospital, one of the country’s top medical centers. Barely in her twenties and already offered such a prestigious position, her
talent and potential were clear.
Sadly, Eloise had crushed her career with a single gesture. No one dared to hire her.
Alan had told her, “It’s okay. Don’t lose heart.”
Behind the scenes, he had arranged for her to work at the clinic of her senior, Marcus
Shepard.
Sydney answered the call. Alan’s cheerful voice came through. “Little Syd, not too busy lately, are you?”
“Not at all.” She chuckled. “Are you and Mrs. Conton going on vacation? Need me to look
after your plants?”
“Come on. Do I sound like someone who only calls when he needs something?” Alan cleared his throat awkwardly. “Remember that group who came to the clinic for acupuncture training? Their Medicine Research Institute is opening soon. I need you and Marcus to attend the ceremony.”
Sydney nodded. “I remember. Wasn’t it overseas?”
1/3
5:35 AM Sun 24 Aug
Chapter 12
“Storia,” he replied, voice bright. “And if I recall, you studied Storian. Perfect fit.‘
Sydney gave a resigned laugh. “When’s the flight?”
“One week from now.” Alan paused, sounding slightly guilty. “The 31st.”
91%
+15 BONUS
The 31st was Caleb’s birthday. Every year on that day, Sydney cleared her schedule. She decorated the house, cooked his favorite dishes, and prepared a gift. Not once had he come
home.
She used to think he was busy with work. Now that she looked back, it seemed almost laughable. Birthdays, anniversaries–they were just excuses for him to prove his love to
Penelope. She should have taken the hint.
“No problem. I’ll attend,” Sydney said without hesitation.
Alan was surprised. Afraid she would change her mind, he didn’t ask why. “Great. I’ll have
Marcus book the tickets.”
Marcus acted quickly. Soon, Sydney received her flight details: a 10:00 a.m. flight on the
31st.
Later that day, Tiffany squeezed in some time to help move the boxes. Four large cartons of professional books filled the trunk.
As Tiffany closed it, she brushed dust from her hands and looked at Sydney. “Did Caleb sign the divorce papers?”
Sydney nodded. “He did.”
Tiffany muttered a curse, clearly annoyed. “So eager to divorce, huh?”
“It’s not that,” Sydney replied. “He doesn’t know they were divorce papers.”
“What? Aren’t you worried he’ll back out later?” Tiffany warned, “Signing the agreement is only part of the process. If he refuses to get the divorce certificate, you’re still legally married.”
2/3
5:35 AM Sun 24 Aug
Chapter 12
91%
+15 BONUS
“I’ll take it to court,” Sydney said, lowering her gaze. Her tone was light but unreadable.
“Besides, he’ll agree.”
