Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 359

**Chapter 359**

A sharp throb pulsed through Sydney’s head, a reminder of the tension that had built up over the course of the day. She reluctantly released Julian’s trouser leg, standing upright with an air of resignation. “I didn’t bring any medicine,” she stated flatly, her voice devoid of inflection.

It was a habit of hers not to carry ointments or remedies when she spent time away from the sprawling Sterling estate. Right now, with the looming threat of other factions poised to strike, even Eloise seemed hesitant to make a move against her. The atmosphere was charged, and Sydney could feel it weighing heavily on her.

Julian arched an eyebrow, a gesture that spoke of authority and command. He extended his arm toward her, as if expecting her to comply without question. “Then since the medicine’s at home, you can drive me back,” he declared, his tone leaving little room for argument.

The sun had dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. Sydney had intended to return home after her brief visit to the CEO’s office, but now, a nagging feeling of discontent settled in her stomach. Why did their paths continue to intertwine when she had resolved to sever all ties?

As she hesitated, Julian pulled out his phone, his expression shifting to one of mock seriousness. “Then I’ll call the police?” he quipped, the edge of his voice laced with playful menace.

Frustration bubbled within her, and Sydney clenched her teeth, knowing she was cornered. His influence loomed large, and she had, after all, laid hands on him in a moment of anger. If the authorities got involved, the situation could spiral out of control, leaving her in a vulnerable position—perhaps even facing detention.

With a heavy sigh, she resigned herself to the inevitable. She stepped forward, assisting him to his feet and steadying him by the arm as they exited the office together.

In the corridor, Charlotte caught sight of them. The look she shot Sydney was a mixture of surprise and sympathy, a silent wish for her to navigate this precarious moment with grace.

As they descended the stairs, they encountered Elliot and Peter, who had just returned from an errand, their car rolling into the garage. The sight of Sydney helping Julian out of the building caused them to freeze in their tracks.

Peter, unbuckling his seatbelt with urgency, exclaimed, “Is Mr. Sterling’s leg really that bad? He can barely walk!”

Just the night before, Julian had been seething with rage after a confrontation with Caleb, nearly flipping the dining table in his fury. In that chaotic moment, he had injured his shin, but this morning, it had seemed like a minor issue.

Elliot, who had anticipated this scene, caught Peter by the arm, a knowing look in his eyes. “Save your breath. Mr. Sterling has mastered the essence,” he said, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

Her refusal came swiftly, slicing through the air and leaving him no room to argue.

Julian’s lips curled into a humorless smile, a hint of vulnerability flashing in his eyes. “So it means nothing to you?”

Sydney remained silent, her resolve solid as she drove into the underground garage at Haven, parking in her usual spot.

“We’re here. Get out,” she instructed, her voice steady.

As they approached the elevator, they unexpectedly collided with Caleb, who stood there like a dark cloud looming over them.

Julian’s eyes turned icy at the sight. Without a moment’s hesitation, he slipped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her closer. “You can’t hold me steady by the arm alone. This way’s easier,” he said, a mix of protectiveness and defiance in his tone.