An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Chapter 31

Dustin drove over to the Nicholsons‘ home at noon. The villa was in a secluded neighborhood, with flowers and hedges decorating the front yard.

Dahlia was right outside. Dustin tried to avoid her but was still spotted.

“Stop right there! I need to talk to you!”

“What is it?” Dustin asked. Their backs were to each other as they spoke.

“I haven’t told Granddad about our divorce because of his condition.”

“Do you think we can keep him from finding out?”

“I’ll find a chance to tell him after, just not today.”

“Alright. Anything else?”

“Nope.” Dahlia turned and went inside the house without another word.

at each other, acting

as well, wine in hand. The living

John, Dahlia’s father, was absent, still outside on his trip.

usual seat this time,

have us elders wait on him like this,” Florence jeered, her expression

mean.

and hurt you!” James chirped loudly. He hadn’t let go of what

here, let’s have dinner.” Henry Nicholson announced, beaming at Dustin.

helped the

burning

doted on Dustin. James was the old man’s

all drink!” Henry

pulled up a decorated box of wine. “Chris brought this beautiful wine over, a fine Grand Cru from La Romanee Conti. We should

this!”

Romanee Conti? That’s a

It was 100 thousand

dollars a bottle?!” everyone exclaimed in shock. The sky–high

been way beyond their

well–off, but even they hadn’t had a chance