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.

opened. As soon as he stepped out of the building, he saw two familiar figures walking toward him. It was Dahlia’s mother,

are

divorced?” Florence did

her a forced smile. “It’s not Dahlia’s

a

course it’s your problem. I know my daughter well. If

was stunned. What was this?

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

“My daughter was right to divorce you! Look at yourself. She’s clearly out

think you’re going too

he hadn’t helped the Nicholson family three years ago, they wouldn’t be where they

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

Suddenly, James stepped forward. “Listen here, Rhys. I don’t care whether you divorce my sister or not,

money?”

know that my sister gave you eight million dollars as alimony!” James

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

take any money from

million dollars? Do you take us as idiots?” James did not believe

us

call Dahlia and ask her if you don’t believe me.” Dustin

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

search his pockets!” James said impatiently. He dove straight into

Florence followed suit.

to do

the Nicholson family

the

are you calling Mom? Watch your mouth. Who do you think you are?” As she spoke, she continued searching through Dustin’s

didn’t find what they wanted

not take

crystal necklace around Dustin’s necklace and pulled it

it with you? Did you steal