The IVF Secret That Shook a Dynasty novel Chapter 256

If all this was just an act to convince her to have a child with him, it was an incredibly realistic performance.

"Vivica, you shouldn't let one bad experience scare you off forever," Quintina said, her gaze serious. "Think about it. A man from Mr. Baird's background has no reason to deceive you. You can afford to be brave and take that step toward him."

Vivica remained silent, but she knew deep down that she was out of excuses to refuse him.

The two of them had explored every corner of the villa, and by the time they were done, evening had settled in.

Vivica invited Quintina to stay for dinner, asking Laura and Zelda to prepare a couple of extra dishes.

Quintina readily agreed, saying she wanted to celebrate a belated birthday for Chaim. She then bustled into the kitchen and whipped up a simple cake.

Just then, Vivica’s phone rang. Her heart leaped when she saw the caller ID.

It was Joseph. So, he really was coming.

Vivica turned away, lowering her voice. "Hello?"

"Is dinner ready?" Joseph asked immediately.

"It's being made," Vivica replied, then hesitated. "My friend is here. Could you… maybe not come tonight? I'll treat you another time."

"Your friend, Ms. Christie?"

"Yes."

Quintina emerged from the kitchen carrying the birthday cake. Seeing Vivica's troubled expression, she asked, "What's wrong? You look like your world is on fire."

Before Vivica could answer, the sound of a car pulling into the courtyard drifted in, followed by Chaim's excited shout, "Mommy, Uncle is here!"

Quintina, still holding the cake, turned around with an awkward expression. "Should I… not have stayed?"

"No!" Vivica rushed over and grabbed her friend's arm, afraid she would leave. "You have to stay for dinner! You promised you'd celebrate Chaim's belated birthday."

Chaim ran to the door to greet Joseph. A moment later, the tall man walked in with the boy in his arms. A smile touched his handsome face when he saw Vivica and Quintina.

"Welcome, Ms. Christie," Joseph said, taking the lead with the air of the man of the house.