The IVF Secret That Shook a Dynasty novel Chapter 226

“Mommy, what’s Uncle Joseph doing in the bathroom?” Chaim, who had just closed his eyes, suddenly opened them again to ask.

“Never mind him. Go to sleep,” Vivica ordered, trying to sound firm.

“But it’s stinky in there. Why isn’t he coming out?”

Vivica was speechless.

Chaim tilted his head and called out in his small voice, “Uncle Joseph? Are you pooping in there?”

Vivica’s eyes widened, and she quickly clamped a hand over her son’s mouth. “Go to sleep right now, or Mommy’s going to get upset.”

Inside the bathroom, Joseph’s handsome face froze at Chaim’s shout, his expression turning thoroughly unnatural. He had no choice but to open the door and step out.

“Uncle Joseph!” Chaim exclaimed upon seeing him, pulling his mother's hand away from his face. He asked with a cheerful grin, “Are you all done?”

Vivica was so embarrassed she couldn't even bring herself to look at Joseph, though she was fighting back a smile.

“Yes,” Joseph replied gruffly, putting on a stern, parental air. “Now, go to sleep.”

“Then can you tell me another story, Uncle Joseph?” Chaim pleaded with a smile.

“Your mom won’t let me,” Joseph said without missing a beat.

Vivica’s head snapped toward him. How could he! He could have used any excuse to leave, but he had to throw her under the bus.

Predictably, Chaim immediately turned to Vivica, whining, “Mommy, please let Uncle Joseph tell me another story. His stories are so much fun.”

Joseph didn’t move, simply standing there and watching the mother-son tug-of-war with an amused look.

Since starting chemotherapy, the side effects of the medication had suppressed Chaim’s appetite, and the frequent vomiting had caused him to lose a noticeable amount of weight. Vivica had been so busy lately that she hadn't been able to spend as much time with her son as she wanted. Now, looking at his thin, pointed chin and sallow complexion, her heart ached with guilt.

Perhaps Joseph's proposal was worth considering.

The thought softened her resolve, and suddenly, she didn't have the heart to be so hostile toward him anymore.

“Mommy, please let him stay, okay?” the little boy begged, tugging at her hand repeatedly.

Unable to disappoint her son, Vivica finally relented. She turned to Joseph, her gaze and tone cool. “Fine… you can stay with him. I’m going to wash up.”

With that, she got up and left the bedside.

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