The IVF Secret That Shook a Dynasty novel Chapter 482

A waiter knocked and began serving the food, prompting Raymond to usher everyone to their seats and make formal introductions.

Raymond's wife was a university professor—elegant, composed, and intellectually radiant. Knowing what Vivica had been through, she felt a deep sense of empathy for her and was especially warm during their introduction.

Raymond's father was also in business. Like many older men of his generation, he was a man of few words, offering Joseph a firm handshake as a greeting.

Raymond's ten-year-old daughter was poised and beautifully behaved.

Vivica handed out the gifts they had brought, receiving a chorus of heartfelt thanks from the Smith family. In return, the adults pulled out holiday gifts they had prepared in advance, pressing them into Chaim's little hands.

The gathering was far more harmonious and welcoming than Vivica had anticipated, and the knots of anxiety in her stomach began to loosen.

"Vivica, your mother, Hillary, hasn't been doing well the last couple of days. She's currently in the hospital. Otherwise, she would have been here today, no matter what," Cheryl said, sighing deeply as she looked at her niece.

The phrase "your mother" caught Vivica off guard, leaving her at a loss for words.

Seeing his wife's hesitation, Joseph seamlessly stepped in. "Until the official DNA results are in, we're just here as guests paying our respects to your family."

The remark brought a brief, awkward silence to the table. Everyone exchanged uncertain glances.

Raymond sat up a little straighter, quick to smooth things over. "Mr. Baird is absolutely right to be cautious. We definitely need the official results first, otherwise, it makes handling everything else down the line quite complicated."

Cheryl looked at Vivica, a hint of hesitation on her face. "Then... Vivica, would it be alright if we head over to do the test right after dinner?"

Cheryl's face hardened, her jaw tight with anger. "Those Chase brothers are monsters. If it weren't for their interference all those years ago, your parents might have actually found you."

The mention of the past made Vivica's smile fade. She had been too young when she was lost to remember anything. But after Joseph had filled her in on the details, she couldn't help but feel a deep ache for the tiny, helpless girl she had once been, suffering so much so early in life.

When they arrived at the hospital, the group had barely stepped out of their car when another vehicle pulled up right in front of them.

The back window rolled down, revealing an older man whose face was twisted in rage.

"Cheryl! Was it you who tipped off the cops about me and my brother? You're vicious! Pulling a dirty stunt like this right during the holidays!"