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.
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