The IVF Secret That Shook a Dynasty novel Chapter 451

“They’re both just hanging on for each other. If one of them goes, the other is sure to follow quickly. My mother and I are incredibly anxious, and we were hoping that once Vivica is a bit stronger, maybe she could…”

Joseph hadn’t told him that Vivica was already planning to go to Sydville City after the New Year. The information he was hearing now was new to him, and he needed to discuss it with his wife.

“I have my law firm’s annual gala tonight, and it’ll run late. I’ll talk it over with Vivica tomorrow and get back to you,” Joseph said after a moment of consideration.

“Alright. Thank you, Mr. Baird. Also, you should both be careful. I’m worried those two brothers from the Chase family might try something desperate again.”

A sharp glint flashed in Joseph’s eyes as his tone shifted. “Compile all the information you have on the Chase family and send it to me. They want to immigrate? We’ll see if they can pass the background check.”

Immigration vetting was notoriously strict. It was impossible that they hadn’t engaged in some corrupt or illegal activities over their years in business. If he had his way, they wouldn’t just be denied immigration; they’d lose their freedom. Anyone who dared to touch someone Joseph cared about was tired of living.

Raymond Smith quickly agreed. “Of course, I’ll get it to you in the next couple of days. And please, don’t forget to send me the details about the child’s condition. I’ll ask everyone I know to get tested for a match.”

“Yes, thank you.”

Raymond let out a huge sigh of relief. “Don’t mention it, it’s the least I can do. If anyone should be thanking anyone, it’s us thanking you and Vivica.”

The call lasted for nearly twenty minutes. By the time it ended, Joseph’s arm was a little sore. He lowered his phone and, after a moment of thought, turned to Roderic. “What did you find out about the background of that driver?”

Roderic glanced at the rearview mirror. “Sir, I did uncover a few things. I was planning to organize the report and give it to you tomorrow.”

“What did you find?”

“The driver is a compulsive gambler who frequents the casinos in Harborview City. He’s drowning in debt and was being hounded by loan sharks. The day before the accident, he suddenly paid back five hundred thousand to a loan company.”

Such an obvious anomaly? Joseph pressed, “Did you trace the payment?”

“I’m working on it. I’ll have it for you tomorrow with the rest of the report.”

“Good.”

He left the main hall alone. Inside the elevator, the feeling of vertigo intensified. Downstairs, he asked for a cup of coffee at the lobby service desk to clear his head and sat on a sofa in the lounge area to wait for his driver.

Within minutes, not only did his consciousness begin to blur, but his entire body started to go numb, his hands and feet tingling. An overwhelming wave of sleepiness washed over him, just like the effect of an anesthetic before surgery. In moments, he felt he was about to pass out.

Through the haze, someone approached him, their voice soft and gentle. “Mr. Baird, what’s wrong? Are you feeling unwell from the drinks? Would you like me to help you upstairs to rest?”

Joseph’s face darkened, his brow furrowed as he tried to identify the person. But their face and figure swam before his eyes, wavering like a ghostly apparition.

“Who… are you?” Joseph asked, his voice low and heavy.

“Mr. Baird, you’re being cruel. You don’t even recognize me?” the woman purred, leaning closer and wrapping an arm around him.

He was about to push her away when she pressed herself against him. “Mr. Baird, I’ve admired you for so long. Tonight… just give me a chance.”

A strange, cloying scent filled his nostrils. Alarm bells screamed in his mind—this woman was trouble, the smell was dangerous—but his body had already lost the ability to resist.