Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

the story opens with Sydney startled by the ringing of Julian's phone, which disrupts the peaceful atmosphere. Upon answering, she learns from Elliot that a project in Malbrosia has been finalized. Elliot's disbelief that Julian is asleep serves to highlight the tension in Sydney, as she grapples with the changes in their relationship.

The call ends abruptly, leaving her in contemplation about their bond, which once provided comfort but now feels uncertain. As Sydney drifts into sleep on the sofa, her dreams are filled with echoes of their past, reminiscent of childhood sweethearts. When Julian awakens, he is met with the serene sight of Sydney, evoking a sense of warmth and affection. Their physical closeness stirs a mix of emotions within him, revealing the complexities of their evolving relationship.

Julian's desire for Sydney is intensified by the memories of their shared history, yet he is also aware of the changes time has wrought upon them. The following morning, Sydney rushes to the clinic, anxious about being late after waking in Julian's arms. The intimacy of that moment lingers in her mind, prompting a realization of the deepening feelings she has for him. Despite her determination to focus on her work, the morning feels different, and she finds herself distracted by the closeness they shared.

As she settles into her shift, she resolves to push aside her emotions, but the anticipation of seeing Julian later looms over her. Just as she prepares to end her day, Charlotte unexpectedly arrives at the clinic, seeking Sydney's help. The surprise of seeing her friend brings a mix of joy and concern, especially when Charlotte reveals that her recent sleeplessness stems from witnessing Sydney and Julian together.

This revelation introduces an undercurrent of tension and unspoken feelings, leaving Sydney grappling with the implications of Charlotte's words and her own emotions regarding Julian. The chapter closes with a sense of unresolved feelings and the complexity of relationships, setting the stage for further exploration of their intertwined lives. Continue Regular Chapter Reading Below **Chapter 217** The sudden blare of Julian's phone sliced through the tranquil atmosphere like a sharp knife, causing Sydney to startle upright.

With quick reflexes, she silenced the ringing, her heart racing as she glanced at the screen. Elliot's name flashed back at her, and without a moment's hesitation, she decided to answer. "Elliot," he began without preamble, his voice brisk and businesslike. "Mr. Sterling, the project in Malbrosia has been finalized." Sydney instinctively lowered her voice, careful not to disturb the peaceful slumber of the man beside her. "Elliot, it's me. Julian's asleep.

"Asleep?" Elliot's tone was incredulous, as if he couldn't fathom the possibility. "Impossible. Mr. Sterling never sleeps this early. Not until the second half of the night, at least." Sydney felt a chill run through her. "Really?" she asked, her curiosity piqued. "Of course," Elliot chuckled lightly, a

of truly calming one another. But now, she found herself questioning whether that bond still held the same weight. She sank deeper into the plush leather of the sofa, her eyes drawn

finally stirred awake, the first sight that greeted him was the soft silhouette of Sydney's

reminder of the years they had shared. A soft murmur escaped her lips, and she stirred slightly, inhaling the familiar scent of sandalwood that clung to him. Instantly, she relaxed, slipping back into the depths of her dreams. But as she shifted, the gentle curves of her body brushed against

her weight remained the same, the changes that time had carved into her form told a different story-one that made his heart race. The next morning, Sydney rushed into the clinic, her bag clutched tightly in her hand as she navigated the familiar corridors

entirely new. Setting her things down in her office,

she began calling in her patients, determined to focus. Due to the holiday, the clinic was quieter than usual, and Sydney found herself looking forward to finishing her shift on time, eager for the evening that awaited her. Just as she was about to pack up for the day, a young nurse

her Hermes bag added an air of sophistication,

check her pulse, then withdrew her hand, sensing nothing alarming. "Nothing serious, I think. Just some poor sleep lately? A bit of liver stagnation perhaps?" "Yes," Charlotte replied, her gaze steady and penetrating. Then, with a weighty pause, she added, "Ever since