The IVF Secret That Shook a Dynasty novel Chapter 305

"If I hadn't come, would you have just let him bully you like this?"

Joseph strode forward, took her by the arm, and smoothly maneuvered her behind him, shielding her with his body.

That simple, protective gesture was charged with an undeniable tension. The surrounding crowd was mesmerized by Joseph's sudden appearance, their eyes filled with admiration. After all, he was handsome, tall, impeccably dressed, and radiated a powerful aura—clearly a man of status and influence. While Fletcher wasn't bad-looking, he couldn't compare to the newcomer in terms of presence and charisma. Especially not while he was on his knees.

Vivica looked up at Joseph's profile from behind him and said defiantly, "Don't worry, he wasn't bullying me. I wouldn't have believed a word he said anyway."

Without turning his head, Joseph kept his sharp gaze fixed on Fletcher. "Leave this to me."

Seeing his rival standing before him, Fletcher certainly wasn't going to stay on the ground—otherwise, it would look like he was kneeling before Joseph. He got to his feet, his face cold, still clutching Vivica's purse.

Joseph bent slightly, extended his arm, and hooked his fingers around the purse strap. Fletcher wasn't about to get into a tug-of-war with another man over a handbag, so he let go.

Just like that, Joseph had the purse. "Here," he said, turning slightly to hand it to Vivica.

Vivica, momentarily captivated by his commanding presence, took the purse.

It was only then that Fletcher processed what he'd heard. His eyes locked onto Joseph. "What did you just say? Vivica is your fiancée? We haven't even been divorced for a month, and you're already engaged?"

"Is there a problem?" Joseph retorted.

Vivica knew exactly what Fletcher was about to say and cut him off. "Fletcher, don't you dare start spreading lies. I met Mr. Baird because of our divorce case. If you open your mouth and damage his reputation, you can expect to be sued."

Fletcher had, in fact, been about to do just that, hoping to mislead the onlookers and put pressure on them. But Vivica's warning brought him back to his senses. He couldn't afford to alienate her right now. His only strategy was to play the victim and win her sympathy.

So, completely out of character, he adopted a look of shame. "I know it was my fault. I hurt you, and that gave another man an opening."

Huh? Vivica frowned, looking at him in disbelief. Had he really changed? Or was this a genuine, heartfelt admission of his own failings?

"But Vivica, you need to be careful," Fletcher continued. "Think about it. A man with his status and family background—how could he have been single for so many years and then suddenly fall in love with you and want to marry you? Aren't you afraid he's plotting something?"

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