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 elevator doors opened. As soon as he stepped out of the building, he saw two familiar figures walking toward him.

why are you

you and Dahlia get divorced?” Florence did

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

on a pleasant note. However, hearing

course it’s your problem. I know my daughter well. If you hadn’t done anything wrong, why would

What was

three years. I’m pretty sure I’m never done anything to betray Dahlia’s trust in me,”

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

don’t you think you’re going too

hadn’t helped the Nicholson family three years

Am I not speaking

Suddenly, James stepped forward. “Listen here, Rhys. I don’t care whether

What money?” Dustin

sister gave you eight million dollars

That’s my daughter’s money. You have no right to take it! Give it

any money from her,”

million dollars? Do you take us

be tactful and give us the money. Don’t

call Dahlia and ask her if you don’t believe me.” Dustin did not wish to

beg, I’m not letting you leave with a single cent of

too dense for this. Let’s just search his pockets!” James said impatiently. He

Florence followed suit.

to do

be accosted by the Nicholson family so soon

on the ground

calling Mom? Watch your mouth. Who do you think

find what they wanted from

hell, did he really not take

he spied the crystal necklace around Dustin’s necklace and

Why is it with you? Did you steal