The IVF Secret That Shook a Dynasty novel Chapter 218

Then, with a mischievous smile, he added, “You know, you’re the first woman Joseph has ever brought here for a meal.”

Vivica felt the hairs on the back of her neck stand up. “No, no, Mr. Murphy, you’ve misunderstood. I… I’m not some young girl. I have a three-year-old son. And Mr. Baird and I are just ordinary friends,” she explained frantically.

Sherman chuckled. “I trust my own eyes.”

Before Vivica could figure out how to pay, the driver had arrived. “Ms. Lynn, Mr. Baird asked me to drive you to work,” he said respectfully.

Vivica stood there, phone in hand with the payment screen open, looking from Sherman to the driver, completely at a loss.

Sherman gestured toward the exit. “Go on, don’t be late for work.”

Vivica knew it was a losing battle. She had no idea what Joseph was trying to do. He introduced her as a “friend,” yet he was so incredibly attentive and considerate. Was this how he treated all his friends?

Mortified and blushing, she finally gave in. After thanking Sherman profusely, she followed the driver out.

...

Back in the private room, with only the two men left, the conversation became much more direct.

“What the hell are you doing here?” Joseph demanded, his face grim. “And what was all that about?”

Harvey, enjoying his meal, replied calmly, “I’m here to be your wingman! You should be thanking me, not interrogating me.”

“Wingman, my ass!” Joseph, normally so composed, snapped.

“So what? She won’t face them,” Joseph said coldly, a hint of frustration in his voice. He could sense Vivica’s feelings, but her attitude confused him.

“It’s normal for her not to be ready. She just got divorced, there’s a huge gap in your social status, and you have a child between you,” Harvey said, hitting on every key point with the clarity of an outsider.

Joseph remained silent.

“She has to consider what that child’s identity would be if she got together with you. Your nephew? Your stepson? Or… your biological son?”

“She doesn’t know about that yet.”

“But she will eventually. You can’t hide it forever.” Harvey took a sip of coffee and offered some advice. “This is adult romance, not some high school game. If you like her, be direct. So what if she’s not ready to face it? As long as she’s not physically repulsed by you, you can be bold, assertive, even a little persistent. You’ll win her over eventually.”