An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Chapter 2

In the elevator, Dustin stared at the crystal necklace dejectedly. Even though he had expected it, he was still sad that his marriage had ended just like that. He had once thought that happiness was simple: meals on the table, cheerful days, and simple pleasures. Now, he found out that normalcy was a sin. It was time to awaken from this prolonged daydream.

Suddenly, his phone rang, breaking him out of his trance. When he picked up the phone, a familiar voice came from the other end.

“Mr. Rhys, I’m Hunter Anderson from the Swinton Group. I heard that today your wedding anniversary with Ms. Nicholson, so I’ve prepared a gift for you. I’m just wondering if you have any time today?”

“Thank you for your kindness, but I’m afraid we won’t be needing the gift,” Dustin said.

“Why?”

Hunter was taken aback. He could sense something wrong.

“Is there anything else you’d like to talk about, Mr. Anderson?”

“Actually, yes, there is.” Hunter cleared his throat awkwardly. “I’ve got a friend who contracted a strange illness. He’s seen a lot of doctors, but none of them could do anything about it. I was hoping that you could help.”

“Mr. Anderson, you know my rules.”

“Of course I do! I’m sincere in my request. My friend owns some canscora, which I remember you were looking for. I’m sure he’ll be willing to part with it if you help him,” Hunter said.

“Is this true?” Dustin asked seriously.

“Yes, it is!”

“Alright, if that’s so, then I’ll be willing to take a look.” Dustin immediately agreed to the request.

He wasn’t interested in money or jewels, but rather some rare herbs and plants, as he needed them to save lives.

“Thank you, Mr. Rhys! I’ll send someone to pick you up immediately!” Hunter smiled in relief.

As the president of the Swinton Group and one of the Mighty Three of Swinton, Hunter acted exceptionally timid in front of Dustin.

“Great, one more down, five to go. I should have enough time,” Dustin muttered to himself. His mood was lifted a little by this news.

the building, he saw

are you here?” Dustin

you and Dahlia get divorced?” Florence did

a forced smile. “It’s not Dahlia’s fault, it’s mine. Don’t blame

a pleasant

daughter well. If you hadn’t done anything wrong, why would she divorce

was stunned. What was this? Victim

past three years. I’m pretty sure I’m never done anything to betray

our backs?” Florence snorted again. “My daughter was right to divorce you! Look at yourself. She’s clearly out of

think you’re going

years ago, they wouldn’t be

what if I am? Am I not speaking the truth?” Florence

“Listen here, Rhys. I don’t care whether you divorce my sister or not, but

What money?” Dustin was

feigning ignorance! I know that my sister gave you eight million dollars as

have no right to take it! Give it back!” Florence stretched out her hand

money

million dollars? Do you take

give us the money.

can call Dahlia and ask her if you don’t believe

beg, I’m

just search his pockets!” James said

Florence followed suit.

to do this?”

by the Nicholson family

the ground in

you think you are?” As she spoke, she continued searching

find

he really not take any of the money?” James said,

crystal necklace around Dustin’s necklace and

sister’s necklace? Why is it with