Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 505

**Chapter 505**

Julian offered a courteous nod to the business partners standing nearby, but his attention quickly diverted before he could muster a proper response. Across the expansive hall, a striking young woman emerged from the private room directly opposite him, a man trailing closely behind her.

With a decisive gesture, he signaled for Elliot to usher the clients out, then turned on his heel and strode purposefully toward Sydney.

She was preoccupied with slipping her coat over her shoulders and didn’t notice his approach until the shadow of his presence fell across her. As she looked up, adjusting her collar, a flicker of mild surprise danced across her features.

James, ever perceptive to the currents of jealousy that often swirled around Julian, chose his words wisely, opting for a quiet farewell as he made his way toward the parking lot, leaving them to their moment.

Sydney’s face lit up at the sight of Julian. “You’re here too?” she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with delight.

Instantly, the tight knot of tension in Julian’s chest began to unravel, and a smirk tugged at his lips. “What, you two can come here but I can’t?” he replied, his tone teasing yet edged with a hint of possessiveness.

‘So sour,’ Sydney thought, even as she registered his playful jealousy. Despite her usual slow reaction time, she could sense it radiating from him like heat waves on a summer day. Looking up at his impeccably styled hair, an impulse surged within her, and she reached out, playfully ruffling his hair as if he were a beloved pet.

“I was just having lunch with James, that’s all,” she clarified, her voice light and teasing.

Nearby, a group of middle-aged executives who had just exited the meeting room nearly dropped their jaws in disbelief.

Who was this woman, so audacious as to tousle Julian’s hair as if he were some pampered golden retriever?

Even more surprising was the fact that he seemed to relish the attention!

Julian froze momentarily, his gaze locking with her clear, sparkling eyes. A wide smile broke across his face. Mindful of her pregnancy, he instinctively bent down slightly to make it easier for her to reach him, even as he muttered with mock arrogance, “Who asked you that?”

In response, Sydney deliberately tousled his hair again, unconcerned about the havoc she was wreaking on his flawless style. She rolled her eyes, a playful grin on her lips. “Then pretend I never explained anything.”

With that, she withdrew her hand and began making her way toward the stairs, her laughter trailing behind her.

Amusement softened his expression, and he reached out from behind, catching her wrist gently. “Going to treat Madam Hutton’s legs this afternoon?” he inquired, his tone light yet filled with genuine interest.

“Mm.” She wasn’t truly angry; their fingers intertwined naturally as she replied, “James is going with me.”

“Good.” Something unreadable flickered in his eyes, but he nodded in agreement, walking her to the car with a sense of purpose. After exchanging pleasantries with James, he finally turned to leave, the air between them crackling with unspoken words.

As they arrived at Seraph Villa, Sydney immediately sensed an unusual stillness enveloping the house.

“Thank you.” Sydney smiled shyly, feeling a warmth spread through her. “Actually, next time, you could have James drive you to my place for treatment instead.”

Her condition had improved significantly, and gentle outings would surely aid her recovery. Besides, Sydney was mindful of maintaining the delicate balance between Florence and her daughter, not wanting to disrupt it too often.

Florence’s eyes sparkled with delight. “Would that be convenient?”

Although she struggled to be strict with Penelope, she also found it difficult to feel a close bond with her. The prospect of getting out of the house once in a while sounded absolutely lovely.

“Very convenient,” Sydney affirmed, nodding as she took hold of the wheelchair from the maid, wheeling Florence into the elevator with care.

With the absence of those two in the house, the treatment proceeded far more smoothly than she had anticipated.

Just as Sydney stepped out of the room afterward, her phone chimed, breaking the serene atmosphere.

“Hello?” she answered, her voice curious.

Raymond’s calm yet slightly hoarse voice resonated through the line. “Syd, are you free to come over to Delta Mansion for a bit?”