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.

never once looked at each other, acting like

and went in as well, wine in hand. The living room was filled with people, including most

was absent, still outside on his trip.

was sitting in his usual seat this time, an outsider too–Chris

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

mean.

He might get upset and hurt you!” James chirped loudly. He hadn’t let go of what had happened yesterday. The bruises were still visible

that everyone’s here, let’s have dinner.” Henry Nicholson announced, beaming at Dustin. “Come and sit beside

helped the old man to his seat.

eyes burning with

grandfather doted on Dustin. James was the old

all drink!”

beautiful wine over, a fine Grand Cru from La Romanee Conti. We should all toast with

this!”

That’s a

was 100 thousand dollars

bottle?!” everyone exclaimed in

way beyond

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