The IVF Secret That Shook a Dynasty novel Chapter 534

He had barely set foot in a kitchen his entire life. The prospect was genuinely daunting.

After a warm round of small talk, everyone finally took their seats around the table.

Riding the high of the festive atmosphere, Raymond popped open a bottle of red wine.

"Hillary and Hayes can't drink, but the rest of us should have a toast, right?" Raymond suggested with a grin as he poured the glasses.

Vivica frowned slightly, remembering that she was actively trying to conceive.

Yet, this reunion was a once-in-a-lifetime moment.

She knew deep down that they might never get another chance to do this.

After a brief internal debate, she pushed her hesitation aside and stayed quiet.

To her surprise, Raymond remembered her mentioning that she was planning for a second child to save Chaim with cord blood. He deliberately poured two glasses with just a tiny splash of wine.

"Joseph and Vivica have a special situation going on, so just a sip for each of them," he announced.

He handed over the two lightly filled glasses.

Joseph took the glass, finding a newfound respect for Vivica's cousin.

With his years of ruthless corporate experience, Joseph knew instantly that a man as fiercely observant and considerate as Raymond was destined for massive success.

"Thank you," Joseph said.

Once everyone had a glass in hand, Raymond stood up, his face glowing with excitement. "Tonight marks the greatest reunion this family has ever seen. Here's to brighter days ahead, and to a speedy recovery for Hillary, Hayes, and Chaim."

The table echoed the sentiment in unison. "To brighter days and speedy recoveries!"

"Cheers!"

Everyone tipped their glasses back and drank.

Watching the beautiful scene unfold from her wheelchair, Hillary couldn't stop the tears from spilling down her cheeks.

Vivica held the glass tight. Her heart pounded relentlessly against her ribs, and a deafening rush filled her ears.

She had no idea if she was doing the right thing, but she refused to live with any regrets.

If she went back to Riverdale and one of her biological parents suddenly passed away...

She would absolutely hate herself for the rest of her life.

To prevent that soul-crushing regret, she decided to push past her own boundaries.

Gripping the wine glass, Vivica locked eyes with Hillary and Hayes and slowly rose from her chair.

A faint tremor ran through her jaw. She stood completely still, mentally bracing herself for what she was about to do.

The entire table realized what was happening. A heavy, expectant silence fell over the room as everyone held their breath, watching her with rapt attention.

After what felt like an eternity, Vivica finally gathered her courage. Her gaze sharpened on Hillary and Hayes. She took a deep, grounding breath and forced out the words she had been holding back. "Mom... Dad."