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.

he stepped out of the building, he saw two familiar figures walking toward him.

are you

you and Dahlia get divorced?” Florence did not waste

we did.” Dustin gave her a forced smile. “It’s not Dahlia’s fault, it’s mine.

his marriage on a pleasant note. However, hearing this, Florence snorted

my daughter well. If you

What was this?

how I’ve treated her over the past three years. I’m pretty sure I’m never

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

you’re going too far?”

he hadn’t helped the Nicholson family three years

I am? Am I not speaking

Mom, stop wasting time with him.” Suddenly, James stepped forward. “Listen here, Rhys. I don’t care whether you divorce my sister or not,

money?” Dustin

that my sister gave you eight

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

any money

would pass on eight million dollars? Do you take us as idiots?” James did not believe

tactful and give us the money. Don’t

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

No matter how much you beg,

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

Florence followed suit.

you have to do

to be accosted by the Nicholson family so soon after

spat on the

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

find what

really not take any of the money?”

necklace around Dustin’s necklace

sister’s necklace? Why is it