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.

of the building, he saw two familiar figures walking toward him. It was Dahlia’s mother, Florence Franklin,

James, why are you here?” Dustin

and Dahlia get divorced?” Florence did

we did.” Dustin gave her a forced smile. “It’s not

a pleasant note. However, hearing

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

stunned. What

pretty sure I’m

again. “My daughter was right to divorce you! Look at yourself.

think you’re going too far?” Dustin

years ago, they wouldn’t be where they were

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

forward. “Listen here, Rhys. I don’t care whether you divorce my sister or not, but you’re giving me all the money

money?”

my sister gave you eight

to take it! Give it back!” Florence stretched

take any money

would pass on eight million dollars? Do you take us as idiots?”

and give us the money. Don’t make me angry!” Florence

call Dahlia and ask her if you don’t believe

beg, I’m not letting you leave with

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

Florence followed suit.

to

family so soon

the ground in

think you are?” As

they didn’t find what

take any of the

spied the crystal necklace around Dustin’s necklace and pulled it off

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