"Right now, their main obsession is the shares Hillary holds," Raymond continued, his tone turning grave. "My mom panicked and blurted out that Hillary found her biological daughter, and that there was no way any outsider was going to inherit their wealth. I'm worried they might try something desperate. I've sent a security detail over to your hotel to ensure your safety. If you plan on going anywhere tomorrow, please let me know in advance."
Raymond wasn't exaggerating; he was genuinely terrified they might be targeted again.
Joseph’s eyes darkened as he looked at Vivica. "Understood. We'll be careful."
Raymond didn't hang up. Sensing the hesitation, Joseph asked, "Is there something else?"
"Um... do you think you might have time to swing by the hospital again tomorrow? Hayes... he still hasn't met Vivica." Raymond forced the words out, clearly uncomfortable.
When they had left earlier today, Joseph had made it crystal clear that they weren't ready for a tearful family reunion.
Predictably, Joseph’s defenses went up. "We have plans tomorrow. We'll see when we have some free time."
"Mr. Baird, how long are you planning to stay in Sydville? It's not that I want to pressure Vivica, but Hillary and Hayes... their health is failing fast."
Having finished helping Chaim with his food, Vivica noticed the grim set of Joseph's jaw and guessed the nature of the conversation. Knowing Joseph was just trying to protect her, she reached out, gesturing for the phone.
Joseph hesitated, but her gaze was unwavering. Reluctantly, he spoke into the receiver, "Vivica wants to speak with you."
Taking the phone, Vivica asked evenly, "What were you just saying?"
Raymond’s voice instantly became eager but cautious. "Vivica, Hayes hasn't seen you yet. He's bedridden, so I wanted to ask if you two might have time to come by the hospital tomorrow."
"Sure. Sometime tomorrow morning. We'll text you before we head over."
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