Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 426

**Chapter 426**

As Megan stood before Theodore, a noticeable shift occurred in her demeanor; her voice softened like a gentle breeze. “Got it, Dad,” she replied, a hint of affection lacing her words.

Theodore, feeling a swell of pride at Florence’s gradual recovery, lifted his glass with a gesture of gratitude towards Sydney. “Dr. Wilson,” he began, his tone sincere, “my wife’s progress is entirely due to your expertise. Please, allow me to propose a toast in your honor.”

His eyes sparkled with warmth as he continued, “While you are our guest, I want you to feel completely at ease. If there’s anything you require, don’t hesitate to let us know.”

“Mr. Hutton, you are far too kind,” Sydney replied, her smile radiant as she raised her glass of juice in acknowledgment. “I fear I’ve already been a bit of a bother during my stay. However, given my current state, I’ll have to toast with juice instead of wine.”

As they exchanged pleasantries, Megan reached across the table, her movements graceful, and placed a perfectly cooked shrimp onto Julian’s plate.

“Mr. Sterling, you simply must try this. It’s one of our chef’s finest creations,” she urged sweetly, her enthusiasm palpable.

The dish itself was an exquisite example of culinary art, demanding both precision and skill in its preparation.

Julian’s brows lifted almost imperceptibly, yet he did not decline the offering. He stole a glance at the woman seated across from him, who appeared to remain entirely unaffected by the exchange, and a faint smile tugged at his lips. “Thank you, Ms. Hutton,” he responded, his voice smooth.

Megan’s eyes sparkled with delight. “You’re so close with Ray. Just call me Meg,” she insisted, her tone inviting.

At that moment, the atmosphere around the table shifted; everyone, including Raymond, froze for a heartbeat.

Florence, aware of the history between Julian and Sydney, frowned slightly, while Theodore quickly grasped his daughter’s underlying intention.

He couldn’t shake off the thought that this pairing made sense—both were single, of similar age and background. Seizing the opportunity, he spoke up without hesitation. “Julian, have you given any thought to settling down in the last couple of years?”

Megan felt her heart race. She knew her father well; his question was a clear indication that he was contemplating her future. Diana, being several years older than Julian and recently divorced, was not a contender. Among the Hutton siblings, Megan was the last one left of marriageable age.

Julian caught the drift of the conversation. After a brief moment of contemplation, he replied in a measured tone, “I had considered it.”

Yet, Megan was not one to back down easily. Since Theodore had chosen not to press further, she decided to take matters into her own hands.

“Mr. Sterling, I’m single too,” she said, her playful smile lighting up her face. “Why not consider me?”

Julian’s gaze lifted, a flicker of amusement dancing in his eyes. He paused, contemplating her words, and for a moment, no one could discern his thoughts.

Sydney maintained her composed facade, quietly savoring her honey-glazed barbecue ribs—the kind of dish that suited her perfectly.

It was utterly delicious.

She reached for another piece, but in her eagerness, the succulent meat slipped from her grasp, landing on the table with a soft clatter.

At that precise moment, Julian’s lips curved into an almost imperceptible smile as he remarked, “Ms. Hutton, I’m already waiting for someone else to consider me.”