Once a Doormat, Now Untouchable

Julian finds himself ensnared in the chaotic whims of Sydney, who exerts a dominating influence over him. Despite the tension that often arises between them, Julian is unable to resist her playful yet piercing remarks about his smoking habits. Her words, laced with a mix of innocence and dark humor, leave him speechless, compelling him to yield to her whims even as he spirals deeper into addiction.

As Sydney's determination to marry Caleb intensifies, Julian's smoking escalates, reflecting his internal struggle and resignation to his habit. His friend Raymond observes the situation and teases Julian about his overly protective attitude towards Sydney, questioning the validity of his feelings when they are not even officially together. This playful banter reveals the underlying tension in Julian's emotions, as he grapples with feelings of inadequacy and uncertainty about his relationship with Sydney.

Raymond's insights into his own relationship with Tiffany highlight the complexities of emotional investment in relationships. Julian empathizes with Raymond's challenges, especially concerning his family's disapproval of Tiffany due to her brother's troubled past. This discussion underscores the theme of familial expectations and the burdens that weigh on both men as they navigate their feelings for the women in their lives. The chapter concludes with a poignant moment between Sydney and James, who expresses his willingness to help her in the future.

Sydney's gratitude and warm response illustrate her resilience despite her troubled past, having lost her parents at a young age. This interaction adds depth to her character, revealing a layer of vulnerability beneath her strong exterior. Overall, the chapter captures the emotional turmoil of the characters as they confront their desires, fears, and the complexities of their relationships. Continue Regular Chapter Reading Below **Chapter 341** In those days, Sydney was nothing short of a little despot, yet Julian found it impossible to resist her whims.

Whenever the tension in the air threatened to snap his patience, she would cast him a look filled with feigned innocence and say, "Julian, I only have you. If you smoke yourself to death, what will I do? Or better yet, why don't you smoke more? I'll breathe in more secondhand smoke, and we can die together." Her words, simple yet piercing, would leave him utterly speechless. What could he possibly do but yield to her?

smoking more but spiraling into addiction, caught in a web he couldn't escape. Perhaps he had reached a point where he felt there was no longer a reason to quit. It was only in the past few months that he had begun to make half-hearted attempts to break free from the grip of his habit. Observing Julian's disheveled state, Raymond couldn't resist a playful jab. "Not to be rude, but you two aren't even officially

up in the air, and here you are, treating her like she's made of glass. Just imagine how you'll act if you actually tie the knot!" Julian's gaze fell, his eyes drifting lazily toward the staircase. With a hint of sarcasm, he replied, "That's only if she's even interested in marrying me." Who knew

giving you the silent treatment? Let me tell you, women need a little coaxing. If you keep acting like you're above it all, why would anyone want to bother with you?" Julian shot back with a sneer, "Is that so? And has Tiffany been bothering with you?" That was a low blow. Raymond choked on his drink, "She's different." Most women in relationships craved emotional investment,

"Your family still won't budge?" Raymond flicked the ash off his cigarette, a hint of frustration in his voice. "It's mainly my dad and my older sister." He understood their perspective. His sister had bluntly explained that it wasn't about Tiffany as a person or even her lineage; it was about her family. Tiffany's younger brother

be a ticking time bomb. One misstep, and he could obliterate the Hutton family's reputation. Julian nodded in understanding. With Theodore and Diana entrenched in the military and politics, the last thing Raymond needed was to tether himself to a potential catastrophe like that. In the grand scheme of the Hutton family's honor and stability, the love he felt for the girl he desired seemed almost trivial. With a smirk, Julian handed Raymond another cigarette, part mockery, part

turned back into the private room. As Sydney and James exited the restaurant, the sky had already donned its cloak of darkness. "James, I'm sorry for troubling you with all this," she said, her voice tinged with gratitude. After thanking him, she added,

had been a struggle; she had lost her parents at the tender age of five, and not long after, the Sterlings had taken her in. James was not one to meddle in others' affairs, but as he watched her slender figure make its way to her car, he felt a sudden urge to reach out. "If you ever need help again, don't hesitate to come to me directly." Sydney turned back, a warm smile breaking across her face. "Alright," she said, her voice light and