Chapter 106 As soon as Sydney stepped out of the elevator, she saw a beautifully wrapped gift box waiting at her door. On the top, written in clear letters: [For Sydney] She carried it inside, opened it, and found an exquisitely tailored haute couture evening gown. It was Caleb's doing. It was perfect for the charity auction. He wanted her to attend, so he provided the dress. It was reasonable enough. Without hesitation, Sydney washed up, applied light makeup, and changed into the gown before heading downstairs. A sleek black Maybach waited at the entrance of her building.
Caleb leaned against the car, and when his gaze landed on her, awe flickered in his eyes. He did not hold back his praise. "This gown looks incredible on you." He stepped forward and opened the car door like a gentleman. Sydney slipped inside. The gown had a high slit, and as she sat, a stretch of pale skin showed beneath the hem, so bright it almost dazzled the eyes. Caleb's throat tightened. "Are you cold?" His voice was low. She shook her head. "I'm fine." The building and lobby had heating, and now she was in the car.
Even so, Caleb removed his suit jacket and draped it over her lap without asking, his tone careful and gentle. "It's close to your cycle. You should keep warm." Sydney blinked, caught off guard. She could not quite place it, but something about Caleb felt different tonight. He was not just going through the motions. His concern showed in actions, not only words. She smiled faintly, and her voice softened. "This is the first time you've ever given me your coat." It was the first time he had done something tangible like this. "I know.
Before, I wasn't good to you," Caleb admitted quietly, at a loss for how to defend himself. "From now on, I'll-" "How far is the hotel?" Sydney interrupted with a polite smile. There was no "from now on." She did not need his promises about the future. Caleb sensed her smile was forced. His gaze softened further. "Not far. Ten, maybe fifteen minutes." With makeup, Sydney's delicate features gleamed with an added allure. Her natural poise and clean innocence contrasted with the sultry elegance in her expression.
Even the fine down on her cheek glowed faintly under the light, stirring an urge to protect her. However, she sat pressed against the far side of the seat, leaving enough space for two more people. She was keeping him at a distance. Caleb finally broke the silence, "Syd..." He leaned closer and sought forgiveness. "You're still upset with me, aren't you?" In the past, surface-level peace was all he wanted. But not tonight. "No," Sydney lied with ease. What use was blaming him? At most, he would send her more gifts.
That game of give and take wasted too much time-time she would rather spend treating patients at the clinic. Before Caleb could press further, the Maybach rolled to a smooth stop in front of the hotel. Tall and striking, Caleb immediately drew eyes as he stepped out. He ignored the attention, bending down with patient care to adjust the hem of Sydney's gown. She noticed the envious glances from nearby society ladies. Once the dress was arranged neatly, Caleb smiled with warmth and offered his arm. "Shall we?" Sydney lowered her gaze, hesitating.
Just as she was about to move, a sleek Porsche 911 pulled up behind them. Penelope emerged in an elegant gown, composed and radiant. She walked over gracefully and slipped her hand through Caleb's arm. "Cal, I saw another invitation at home. I figured you must've saved it for me, so I came. Syd, you don't mind, do you?"