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.

saw two familiar figures walking toward

are

get divorced?” Florence

we did.” Dustin gave her a forced smile.

on a pleasant note.

If you hadn’t

What

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

knows what you’ve done behind our backs?” Florence snorted again. “My daughter was right to divorce you! Look at yourself. She’s

you think you’re going too far?” Dustin

years ago, they

what if I am? Am I

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

money?” Dustin

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

to take it!

any money from her,”

pass on eight million dollars? Do you take us as

give us the money. Don’t make me

and ask her if you don’t believe me.” Dustin did not

us? Listen here. No matter how much you beg, I’m not letting you leave

search his pockets!” James said impatiently. He dove

Florence followed suit.

you have to do this?” Dustin

to be accosted by the Nicholson family so soon after the divorce. They were really

on the ground in

mouth. Who do you think you are?”

didn’t find what they wanted from his

did he really not take any

he spied the crystal necklace around Dustin’s necklace and

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