Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Chapter 196 This New Year's was the most relaxed Sydney had enjoyed in a long time. It felt like a rare blessing to pass the holiday safe and sound. For two or three days straight, nothing stirred across the hall. She and Tiffany stayed home, each absorbed in her own work. The coffee table lay buried under pages of research notes, while the desk was crowded with case files. That afternoon, just as Sydney accepted the cup of coffee Tiffany handed her, the phone lying face down on the table buzzed. She picked it up, glanced at the screen, and answered. "Hey, Bruce.

What's up?" On the other end, Bruce teased, "Syd, New Year's has passed and you didn't even think to call me?" Sydney laughed. "I sent everyone a message." At midnight on New Year's Day, she had sent greetings to all her friends, including the handful of male friends she kept closest. Bruce's tone softened. "Alright, I won't tease. What are you up to now?" "Working at home," Sydney said honestly. Bruce chuckled. "Come on, it's a new year. What are you working for? Bring Tiffany and come hang out with us. I'll send the location." "I'll pass. You guys have fun," Sydney replied.

your own, he'll pick you up." Sydney set her coffee cup down. "I'll go myself." If Caleb came for

a quick goodbye, she checked the location Bruce sent and turned to Tiffany. "Tiff, Bruce invited us to the Luxon Club. Want to come?" Tiffany had been out of sorts since returning from her family a few days earlier. Sydney thought an evening out might lift her spirits. Tiffany wasn't in the mood, but seeing the hopeful look in Sydney's eyes, she finally nodded. "Alright." Neither of them liked dragging

door, the waiter paused, holding it open. "Ms. Wilson, Mr. Wilhelm and Mr. Hampton are inside." "Thank you." Sydney acknowledged him, but as the door opened she caught sight of the lively group within-and Julian, sitting off in the corner with a cigarette between his lips. 'He's here too?' she thought. Caleb waved her over warmly. "Syd, come sit." Sydney, still holding Tiffany's hand, was about to step inside when a