The IVF Secret That Shook a Dynasty novel Chapter 480

They looked up to see Raymond waving at them enthusiastically.

Seeing him in person, a strange, complex knot of emotions tightened in Vivica's chest. This was it. There was no turning back.

Joseph noticed the shift in her expression and wrapped a reassuring arm around her waist. "Let's go. No matter what happens, Chaim and I are right here with you. There's nothing to be afraid of."

"Okay."

The family of three made their way toward Raymond.

Joseph leaned down and whispered to his son, "Remember to call him Mr. Smith for now."

Technically, Chaim should be calling him Uncle Raymond. But since they hadn't officially established their relationship yet, throwing the word 'uncle' around so casually would put Vivica in an awkward position.

"Got it, Dad," the little boy chirped, his eyes darting around in awe at the new environment.

"Mr. Baird! Vivica! Happy New Year!" Raymond hurried over, immediately taking the luggage from Vivica's hands.

"Happy New Year!" Vivica replied with a polite smile.

Raymond looked down at the little boy holding Joseph's hand, his eyes softening. "And you must be Chaim. Happy New Year, buddy."

"Happy New Year, Mr. Smith! I hope you have a great year and get lots of presents!" Chaim greeted him confidently, flashing a bright smile.

Chaim had been practicing his holiday greetings for weeks. He didn't even need his parents to prompt him anymore.

The adults chuckled at his adorable enthusiasm, and the slightly awkward tension in the air instantly evaporated.

Once they were settled in the car, Raymond outlined the plan. "I've got your hotel all sorted out. I'll drop you off now. My family is actually waiting at the hotel restaurant. We can grab lunch together, and then you can head up to your room to rest. We'll head over to the private care facility to see Hillary and Hayes tomorrow. How does that sound?"

"Let's go. It's just lunch," Joseph murmured, lifting Chaim out of the car before extending a hand to her.

"Mr. Smith, we'd actually love to head up to our room first to drop off the bags and change out of these winter clothes," Joseph said, smoothly running interference. "What floor is the restaurant on? We'll come down and meet you in a bit."

He knew Vivica needed a few minutes to mentally prepare herself, and to be fair, they were all sweating in their heavy Riverdale clothes.

Raymond picked up on Vivica's anxiety and nodded easily. "Absolutely. Take your time. Just give me a call when you're ready, and I'll go ahead and put in the orders. Does Chaim have any food allergies or diet restrictions?"

"Nothing too greasy or heavy, please."

"You got it. See you in a bit."

After checking in, the family headed upstairs. Raymond had booked them the Presidential Suite, where a dedicated concierge was already waiting inside to assist them.