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 two familiar

James, why are you here?”

get divorced?” Florence

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

intended to end his marriage on a pleasant note. However,

If you hadn’t done anything wrong,

What was

treated her over the past three years. I’m pretty sure I’m never done anything to betray Dahlia’s trust in me,” Dustin

done behind our backs?” Florence snorted again. “My daughter was right to

think you’re

Nicholson family three years ago, they wouldn’t be where they were

if I am? Am I not speaking

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

What money?”

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

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

take any money from her,” Dustin

eight million dollars? Do you take us as idiots?” James did

us the money. Don’t make me

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

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

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

Florence followed suit.

do you have to

to be accosted by the Nicholson family so

on the ground

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

some time, they didn’t find

did he really not take any of the

the crystal necklace around Dustin’s necklace and pulled it

sister’s necklace? Why is it with you?