Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Julian finds himself captivated by Sydney as she cleans up in the kitchen. Observing her movements, he experiences a profound realization that he doesn't want her to leave; her presence feels like home to him. This moment of clarity leads him to invite her to sit beside him, creating an unexpectedly intimate atmosphere as they share a meal together.

As they eat, Sydney expresses a sense of familiarity with the food, prompting Julian to tease her about the commonality of Dagonia cuisine. Despite the light-hearted banter, Sydney is overwhelmed by memories of their past dinners, feeling a mix of nostalgia and sadness. This emotional turmoil surprises her, as she grapples with the conflicting feelings of resentment and affection toward Julian. Julian, perceptive to her emotional shift, playfully comments on her reaction to the meal, momentarily breaking the tension that envelops them.

However, Sydney's heart races with unspoken thoughts as she contemplates the implications of their evening together. Sensing the weight of his gaze, she awkwardly suggests taking a shower, aware that the night is leading them to a more intimate space. As she prepares for her shower, Sydney discovers a nightdress and a single towel, hinting at Julian's intentions. The shared brand of body wash deepens their connection, stirring emotions in both of them. When she finally emerges from the bathroom, Julian's relaxed demeanor contrasts with the palpable tension in the air.

As he beckons her closer, Sydney's shyness surfaces, leading her to suggest they move to the bed, marking a pivotal moment in their relationship filled with anticipation and uncertainty. Continue Regular Chapter Reading Below **When The Ocean Learned My Name and Whispered It Back to You by Aurelia Novel 215** **Chapter 215** Julian stood in the dimly lit kitchen, watching Sydney as she busied herself with the dishes, her movements fluid and purposeful. A sudden realization washed over him, almost as if the very air around him had shifted. 'I don't want her to leave.

Wherever she is, that place feels like home.' The thought settled in his mind, heavy and undeniable. With a soft clatter, Sydney retrieved two sets of plates and utensils from the cupboard. Just as she was about to take a seat directly opposite him, Julian swiftly pulled out the chair beside him. "Sit here," he said, his voice firm yet inviting. The arrangement felt oddly intimate, reminiscent of how couples might share a meal. Bound by the terms of their contract, Sydney offered no resistance.

She took her place beside him, her demeanor calm as she began to eat, the silence between them filled with an unspoken tension. As she savored her food, she suddenly paused, a look of confusion crossing her face. "This tastes familiar. I feel like I've eaten it before," she mused, her brow furrowing slightly in contemplation. Julian raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement playing at the corners of his lips. "Doesn't all Dagonia cuisine taste like this?" he replied, his tone light but with an undercurrent of seriousness.

culinary skills were nothing short of extraordinary, rivaling those of any high-end private chef. Yet, aside from Julian and his men, very few had ever had the privilege of tasting her creations. Sydney's mind whirred as she considered his words. "That's true," she finally conceded, a small smile creeping onto her face. "Eat up," he encouraged, placing a succulent barbecue rib on her plate with a tenderness

illusion. Julian, the stoic and often brooding figure, displaying such warmth? It was unfathomable. Surely, it must have been a trick of the fading light. Outside, the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange

reason to hold resentment toward him, yet here she was, feeling an inexplicable sadness. The ache radiated from her heart to her temples, an overwhelming sensation she couldn't suppress. Julian, ever observant, noted the

as she continued to eat, her heart racing for reasons she couldn't quite articulate. As they finished their meal, she felt the weight of his gaze resting upon her, a palpable intensity that made her uneasy. Slowly,

point in delaying the inevitable. She wasn't naive; Julian had not invited her over

was to come. This time, she opted for the master bath, leaving the bedroom door slightly ajar. Julian, lounging in the living room, could see a sliver of light spilling through the crack and hear the gentle rush of water as she prepared herself. After a while, the sound of running water ceased-likely she was brushing her teeth. Moments later, the spray resumed, transforming into the soothing patter of a shower. They both used the same brand of body wash, a small connection that felt

a delicate shade of red. When Sydney finally