Once a Doormat Now Untouchable (Caleb and Sydney) novel Chapter 287

**Chapter 287**

“Not really.” Sydney’s mind drifted back to reality as she reluctantly slipped her feet into her cozy slippers. The soft fabric felt comforting against her skin as she padded over to the dining table, the scent of something sweet lingering in the air.

Her brow furrowed in confusion as she turned to glance at Julian, who stood behind her with an expectant expression. “Which bakery did you order this cake from?” she inquired, a hint of disbelief coloring her tone.

It was one thing for Julian to remember her birthday—an act that had genuinely surprised her—but the sight before her was something else entirely. The cake, a supposed tribute to her special day, bore a striking resemblance to a culinary disaster rather than a celebration. Her beloved Dolly Knight had transformed into something grotesque, a creation that could easily be dubbed Dolly Nightmare.

Julian’s gaze flicked between her incredulous expression and the cake, his brow furrowing slightly. “Not nice?” he asked, his voice laced with a hint of uncertainty.

It never crossed Sydney’s mind that he might have taken it upon himself to create this monstrosity. With a mix of honesty and concern, she replied, “It’s a bit ugly. Seriously, please don’t order from this place again.”

His brow twitched, and she could see the wheels turning in his mind. Clearing his throat, he nodded solemnly, the corners of his mouth twitching as if trying to suppress a smile. “Mm. Maybe it got banged up on the way over. Go ahead and make your wish,” he urged, his tone shifting slightly.

There was something in his voice that felt oddly familiar, a resonance that tugged at her memory. Sydney blinked, curiosity piqued. “Don’t tell me you made this cake yourself?” she ventured, her tone teasing yet hopeful.

Julian’s long, defined fingers struck a match with a practiced ease, lighting the candles that adorned the cake. At her question, his movements faltered for just a moment, a fleeting hesitation that caught her attention. Just as he extinguished the match, his phone buzzed insistently from his pocket, breaking the moment.

Seizing the opportunity, he stepped toward the balcony, his voice cool and measured as he answered the call. “Speak,” he said, the authority in his tone unmistakable.

“Mr. Sterling,” came the voice of Elliot, crisp and urgent.

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