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.

a ding, the elevator doors opened. As soon as he stepped out of the building, he saw two familiar figures walking toward him. It was Dahlia’s mother, Florence Franklin, and

James, why are you

and Dahlia get divorced?”

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

end his marriage on a pleasant note. However,

If you hadn’t done anything wrong, why would she

What was this? Victim

years. I’m pretty sure I’m never done anything to

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

you think you’re going too

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

I not speaking the truth?”

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

What money?”

gave you eight million

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

take any money

you take us as idiots?”

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

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

No matter how much you beg, I’m not

Let’s just search his pockets!” James said

Florence followed suit.

do you have to do this?” Dustin

hadn’t expected to be accosted by the Nicholson family

spat on the ground

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

didn’t find what they

take any of

the crystal necklace around Dustin’s necklace and

my sister’s necklace? Why is it with