Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 306

**Chapter 306**

As the evening wore on, Sydney’s results had effectively silenced every last skeptic in the room. The era when mere seniority dictated success had finally come to an end, and she had emerged as a beacon of hope and innovation.

Alan stood off to the side, his heart swelling with quiet pride as he observed the astonishment and admiration radiating from the guests surrounding his protégé. A smile stretched across his face, so wide that it began to ache, but he didn’t care. This moment was worth every bit of discomfort.

“This drug could never have been developed without the unwavering support of my mentor and my remarkable colleagues in the R&D department,” Sydney declared, her voice steady and confident as she met the gazes of those around her. “When we launch the drug, I invite each of you to attend the press conference.”

“Absolutely! We wouldn’t miss it!” one voice chimed in enthusiastically.

“Ms. Wilson is an extraordinary talent, achieving so much at such a young age,” another guest remarked, clearly impressed.

“Ms. Wilson, I’m the president of Rendev Biotech. Here’s my card…” A sharp-dressed man interjected, thrusting a business card into her hand.

Before she could respond, a throng of eager guests surrounded her, each vying for a moment of her time.

In that instant, Sydney transformed into the center of attention—Sydney Wilson, a name that even the most influential figures in the room sought to connect with. Those who once overlooked the ordinary now turned their full focus toward her. As the lead researcher behind a groundbreaking cancer treatment, she had rightfully earned her place among the elite, and she was just 25 years old.

Her future stretched out before her, vast and uncharted, and no one could predict just how high she would soar. If they didn’t forge connections with her now, when would they ever get the chance again?

From a distance, Julian observed her gracefully maneuver through the crowd, her composure unwavering as she handled flattery, probing inquiries, and calculated offers with remarkable ease.

Elliot caught the expression on Julian’s face and leaned closer, murmuring, “Mr. Sterling, Ms. Wilson has navigated the path you laid out for her with incredible grace.”

Julian allowed a faint smirk to play on his lips. “She carved that path herself.”

Her determination and relentless spirit had propelled her to this moment. Whatever groundwork he had contributed paled in comparison to her own efforts.

After what felt like an eternity of engaging with guests in the lavish banquet hall, Sydney finally seized a moment to escape to the restroom, desperately craving a bit of solitude.

For many things, she still harbored resentment toward him, but for this moment, she felt compelled to express her gratitude.

Julian understood her unspoken feelings. His eyes traced the delicate contours of her face as he murmured coaxingly, “And how do you plan to thank me?”

Her mind was clear and focused. She hadn’t touched a drop of wine, and knowing Julian, she suspected he was setting another trap, a game of wits.

Instead of playing along with his teasing, she replied resolutely, “I’ll keep pushing forward, working to develop a special-effect drug that can lower costs.”

The current drug was prohibitively expensive, and she had yet to discover a better alternative.

But Julian’s mind was sharper than hers. He closed the distance between them, his breath warm against her skin. “That’s for Sterling Corp. I asked how you’ll thank me.”

Even through the layers of fabric separating them, she could feel the heat radiating from him, an intensity that sent her heartbeat racing and her thoughts spiraling.