The IVF Secret That Shook a Dynasty novel Chapter 132

Vivica didn’t try to hide it, offering a bitter smile. “Something like that. I’m used to it by now.”

Sheridan, who had been listening quietly from the side, let out a sigh. “To spoil a child is to ruin them. Your parents are the ones who made your brother so useless, and now you're the one left to deal with the consequences…”

Melanie added, “You can’t afford to be too soft-hearted. You have to learn to put yourself first. When they make unreasonable demands, you must refuse them outright.”

Vivica was quite surprised to hear this. She figured most people their age would argue that no matter how wrong or biased parents are, children should always tolerate, accommodate, and obey them out of familial duty and gratitude for being raised. But here were Sheridan and Melanie, free from that traditional mindset, seeing things entirely from her perspective.

A warmth spread through Vivica’s chest. She looked at Melanie and nodded firmly. “I’ll remember that. Thank you.”

Across the room, Joseph stood up, holding the assembled mechanical car in one hand and inspecting it from all angles.

It was the first time Vivica had seen this somewhat boyish side of Joseph, and it felt strangely unfamiliar.

Noticing Vivica’s thoughtful gaze on her son, Melanie quickly explained, “That LEGO set is for kids ten and up. Chaim’s too little to handle the wiring, so when Joseph came over tonight, he started working on it with him. They’ve been at it this whole time.”

Sheridan smiled, his tone full of surprise. “He’s always going on about never getting married or having kids, but he seems to be a natural with children.”

Vivica felt compelled to add to the praise. “Mr. Baird is mature, steady, and responsible. I’m sure he’ll be an excellent father someday.”

Sheridan snorted. “That would require him to actually get married.”

Chaim didn’t understand, and he cupped his face with his small hands. “Anything looks good on Chaim’s face.”

His innocent remark brought smiles back to Sheridan and Melanie’s faces, making them adore the little boy even more.

Remembering he had something to discuss with Vivica, Joseph followed her and Chaim out the door.

In the hallway, Vivica turned to thank him and say goodbye, but Joseph spoke first. “Didn't Roderic give you the keys to the house? You need to move as soon as possible, then go to the county records office to handle the title transfer. Once the property is solely in your name, you can list it for sale. Your ex-husband is a real piece of work, so don’t delay on this, or there could be more trouble.”

They weren’t even divorced yet, but Joseph was already calling Fletcher her “ex-husband.”