The IVF Secret That Shook a Dynasty novel Chapter 538

Those with a shred of decency might have just gossiped and harbored secret envy.

But those as brazen and ruthless as Sullivan sought to destroy and replace.

"When they demanded to join the company, we fought it tooth and nail," Hillary said, her voice laced with regret. "But the old folks pulled every dramatic stunt in the book—threatening to kill themselves, screaming, crying. Sullivan and Sean showed up every single day, acting like street thugs. Hayes was too soft-hearted back then. He hated what they were doing, but he couldn't break free from his parents' emotional blackmail. Eventually, he compromised and gave them positions."

"And did they show an ounce of gratitude? No. Our concession only fueled their murderous ambition. They planned that crash, killed my William, and left my husband paralyzed, suffering for decades..."

As her words faded, a heavy, suffocating silence fell over the dining room.

The Smiths had known this tragic history for years, but hearing it again reignited their furious indignation.

Joseph, having seen the darkest depths of human nature as a defense attorney, maintained his stoic composure.

But Vivica sat rigid, her brows furrowed, her fists clenched hard enough to draw blood.

Hearing about the sheer, monstrous depravity of the Chase brothers reminded her of the endless exploitation she had suffered under the Lynns.

It was a terrifying realization: some people were simply demons wearing human skin.

"Hillary, I am so sorry..." Hayes choked out, tears streaming down his weathered face. "If I hadn't been so foolishly loyal, so utterly spineless... if I had just said no, you wouldn't have suffered any of this. It's all my fault."

He had always adored his wife, and hearing her recount the nightmare made him wish he could fall to his knees and beg for her forgiveness.

Hillary nodded vigorously. "Of course. We just found Vivica, and little Chaim is still so young. We want to be around for them as long as we can. We will follow all the doctors' orders and stay strong."

Joseph gave a firm nod, officially accepting their mandate.

By the time they finally left the Smith residence, it was past ten o'clock at night.

Chaim fell asleep in his car seat almost the moment they hit the road.

The interior of the car was quiet. Vivica stared blankly out the window for a long time before she murmured, her voice laced with melancholy, "It seems my life was a perfect replica of my parents' tragedy."