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.

building, he saw two familiar figures walking

why are

you and Dahlia get divorced?” Florence did

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

marriage on a

your problem. I know my daughter well. If you hadn’t done

stunned. What

pretty sure I’m never done anything to betray Dahlia’s trust in

you’ve done behind our backs?” Florence snorted again. “My daughter was right to divorce you! Look

you think you’re going too far?”

three years ago,

far? So what if I am? Am I not speaking the

stop wasting time with him.” Suddenly, James stepped forward. “Listen here, Rhys. I don’t care whether you

What money?” Dustin

that my sister gave

right to take it! Give it back!” Florence stretched

take any money

dollars? Do you

and give us

ask her if you don’t believe me.” Dustin did not wish to explain himself

now? Are you threatening us? Listen here. No matter how much you beg, I’m not letting you leave with a

this. Let’s just search his pockets!” James said impatiently. He dove straight into Dustin’s

Florence followed suit.

do you have to do this?”

accosted by the Nicholson family so soon after the divorce. They

spat on the ground in

you calling Mom? Watch your mouth. Who do you think you are?” As

some time, they didn’t find what

take any of the

necklace around Dustin’s

necklace? Why is it with you? Did you steal it?”