Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

the story begins with a light-hearted interaction between Tiffany and Sydney as they celebrate Sydney's birthday. Tiffany playfully expresses her affection for Sydney by forming a heart with her hands, which elicits a genuine laugh from Sydney. Despite her exhaustion, Tiffany is determined to be the first to wish Sydney a happy birthday, highlighting the depth of their friendship.

Sydney, aware of Tiffany's fatigue, encourages her friend to rest but appreciates the sentiment behind Tiffany's antics. The chapter continues to explore Sydney's birthday traditions, particularly the unique practice at her clinic of having no patients on her special day. This tradition allows her a day of reflection and celebration, and she takes her time enjoying the morning before heading out. Both women part ways for their respective workplaces, with Sydney planning to celebrate later that evening with Tiffany and Marcus.

Sydney's dedication to her work is evident as she briefly stops by the lab, where playful banter with her colleague Marcus lifts her spirits. As the day progresses, Sydney experiences a delightful surprise when Charlotte presents her with a luxurious handbag for her birthday. Initially taken aback by the extravagance, Sydney learns that gift-giving is a reciprocal act of friendship, which Charlotte emphasizes. This moment deepens their bond and illustrates the importance of mutual support in friendships.

Charlotte's revelation that she discovered Sydney's birthday through her personal file adds a layer of thoughtfulness to the gift. However, the tone shifts when Charlotte discreetly inquires about Sydney's past with Caleb, revealing that she knows Sydney is divorced. This unexpected question prompts a moment of vulnerability for Sydney as she confirms the truth. The conversation hints at underlying tensions, particularly concerning Sydney's relationship with Julian.

Sydney grapples with the implications of her past and the potential consequences of her divorce, especially regarding how Julian may perceive her situation. The chapter closes on a note of uncertainty, as Sydney reflects on her choices and the gossip that may have reached Julian's ears, leaving readers with a sense of anticipation for how these dynamics will unfold. Continue Regular Chapter Reading Below **Chapter 281** Tiffany, with a playful glint in her eyes, raised her hand and formed a heart shape with her fingers.

"It's my heart," she declared dramatically, "overflowing with love for you." The sheer cheesiness of the gesture caught Sydney off guard, eliciting a genuine laugh from her. "Alright, alright, message received loud and clear! Now, can you please finally get some sleep?" Sydney had noticed Tiffany's eyelids drooping long before this moment. Yet, her friend had stubbornly insisted on staying awake just to be the first to wish her a happy birthday as the clock struck midnight. Tiffany tightened her grip on Sydney's arm, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "Not a chance!

company tonight." For as long as Sydney could recall, the clinic had a peculiar tradition: no patients were ever booked on her birthday. It was a day meant for rest and reflection, a day to celebrate life and friendships. She indulged in a leisurely morning,

at home, she figured it wouldn't hurt to swing by the lab for a bit. As Sydney entered the lab, she caught Marcus's eye, and he chuckled, his voice teasing. "I knew you wouldn't actually stay home and rest. You're too dedicated for that!" Sydney flashed him a bright smile as she

just want to wrap up this project sooner rather than later." Around noon, the two colleagues decided to take a break and grab a quick bite to eat. Their laughter echoed in the hallways, a refreshing contrast to the sterile atmosphere of the lab. Upon their return, they were greeted by Charlotte, who stood by the lab door, a warm smile lighting up her face. In her hands, she held a gift bag, giving it a little shake as if to

handbag. She recognized it instantly, her heart sinking slightly as she tried to protest. "This is far too extravagant-" Charlotte, however, was quick to cut her off, her brows arching with practiced ease. "Then you can give me something of equal value when my birthday rolls around." Her tone was

together. "Alright, I'll accept it," Sydney relented, her defenses lowering as she took the bag from Charlotte's hands. "But how did you even know today is my birthday?" Charlotte replied casually, "You may not be part of Sterling Corp., but you still submitted a personal file before joining the lab, didn't you?" Just yesterday, while reviewing Sydney's file, Charlotte had finally pieced together the mystery of

lingered in her mind, heavy and pressing. She had held it back just yesterday, but today, it demanded to be

first time Charlotte had witnessed Sydney and Julian together in a private setting, fury had surged through her veins. In her mind, a married woman engaging in infidelity was utterly unacceptable. Yet, as she pondered more deeply, the notion began to clash with her understanding of Sydney's character. Sydney looked taken aback but didn't shy