Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Sydney opens the door to find Julian, freshly showered and dressed in comfortable loungewear, exuding a relaxed yet commanding presence. This casual attire starkly contrasts with his usual tailored suits, making him appear both at ease and authoritative in the familiar setting of her home.

Sydney feels a rush of relief upon seeing him, but her curiosity leads her to ask if he will be staying at the old estate, a question he dismisses with disdain, reminding her that he hasn't returned there in eight years. This exchange highlights the emotional distance and unresolved past between them. As Sydney prepares a midnight snack of muffins, she senses the tension in the air but also the familiarity of their interactions. Julian's subtle smirk and commanding demeanor suggest a complex relationship filled with unspoken emotions.

Sydney, aware of his preferences, heats the muffins while reflecting on her modest culinary skills and the stark contrast between the warm kitchen and the shadows outside. This moment of domesticity reveals her desire to connect with him, despite the underlying tension that often characterizes their encounters. When the muffins are ready, Sydney plates them with care, instinctively preparing two servings, one for each of them. This act of sharing signifies a longing for closeness and normalcy, even in the face of their complicated history.

Julian's decision to move closer to her at the table, rather than remaining across from her, shifts the dynamic between them, creating an intimate atmosphere as they share the simple yet comforting meal. The silence that envelops them speaks volumes, filled with the soft sounds of their shared experience. As they eat, Julian's curiosity about the muffins leads to a deeper conversation that hints at memories of their past, particularly involving a woman named Agatha.

This moment of connection is tinged with nostalgia and a hint of skepticism, suggesting that their shared history is still very much alive in their minds. The chapter closes with an exploration of their evolving relationship, as Julian's tastes have changed alongside Sydney's, symbolizing their growth and the potential for a renewed bond amidst the complexities of their past.

Continue Regular Chapter Reading Below **Chapter 231** It was Julian standing there, freshly emerged from the shower, clad in deep-blue loungewear that clung to his form in a way that was both relaxed and undeniably commanding. In contrast to the crisp, tailored suits that he typically wore, this attire lent him an air of casual authority, softened by the hint of ease that came with being at home. Sydney felt a wave of relief wash over her as she opened the door, her heart racing slightly. "You're not staying at the old estate tonight?" she asked, her voice laced with curiosity.

the answer were as obvious as the sky was blue. She couldn't help but acknowledge the truth in his words. It was a pointless question, really. Ever since he had moved out eight long years ago, the Shang estate

to the slippers, and a subtle chill crept into his voice as he asked, "Whose are these?" Without glancing back, she headed toward the kitchen, her

he inquired, his tone casual yet probing. At the Sterling estate, Sydney had never been able to indulge in a proper meal, and after the emotional turmoil of the day, her appetite had all but vanished. "Yeah," she replied, flicking on the kitchen

some for me too," he commanded, the order rolling off his tongue as naturally as a breath. A question bubbled up in Sydney's mind-had he not eaten either? But as she recalled the stifling atmosphere during dinner, she wisely decided against voicing her thoughts. Instead, she moved toward the kitchen, her mind focused on the task at hand. Her culinary skills were modest at best, but heating muffins was within her capabilities. Living alone, she had turned off the main lights outside, leaving only a dim lamp to cast

soft glow bathing her in warmth. She had changed into a floral nightdress, its hem dancing lightly around her legs with each movement. Julian's gaze lingered on her, taking in

that seemed foreign to her, a softness that made her heart flutter unexpectedly. When the muffins emerged from the oven, plump and golden, they looked almost too tempting to resist. She swallowed hard,

always preferred his muffins plain, but over time, his tastes had evolved, aligning perfectly with hers. Setting the plate before him, she took her seat across the table. But instead of remaining there, he moved closer, sliding into the chair beside her and taking both muffins and ramekins with him,