An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

“What?” Everyone exchanged glances when they saw the black needle, surprised. They had seen Dustin removing the needle from the horse’s head. There was even blood on it.

So, someone purposely inserted it into Gale’s head. “Seriously? Could this guy be telling the truth?” Everyone turned to look at Jayden, waiting for an explanation.

what else do you have to say?” asked Dustin. Then, he flicked the needle and sent it flying. It landed near Jayden’s feet. “What do you mean? Are you suspecting me?” Jayden frowned.“I’ve no

stir things up between us.” “Sheila, you should always keep your guard up,” Dustin reminded.He was not expecting to prove that Jayden was guilty with just a needle. However, Dustin hoped that Sheila would stay alert.“Sheila! This man has ill intentions! He’s trying to ruin our relationship,” Jayden declared. “You’re better off without a friend like him!”After listening to their argument, Sheila tried to smooth things over. Calm down, guys. It was just an accident. Let’s not let this incident ruin our friendship.”One was her cousin, while the other was her savior. Sheila felt awkward as she was caught in between them. “Forget it. For Sheila’s sake, I won’t hold it against you this time.“But one more word of nonsense from you, then I won’t hold back,” Jayden threatened. Dustin almost exposed him for pretending to care about Sheila. Jayden could not help but feel frustrated.Suddenly, Vivian spoke up, “Wait a second. Since someone tampered with Gale, this race should be declared void. We can’t consider it as Sheila had lost.”“That’s right! Under normal circumstances, Gale had a better chance of winning,” Evan and the others chimed in. Roxanne pursed her lips. “Hmph! There will always be unexpected events during a horserace.“So, a loss is still a loss. What’s with all this nonsense?” “Let it go, Roxanne. We’re a family, after all. Our relationship is more important. Return Gale to Sheila.” Jayden spoke up as well.“Why should I?” Roxane asked with her head tilted. “She should honor her bet! I won Gale fair and square! Why should I return him to her?”She had been eyeing Gale for a long time. After all, it was a fine horse. After going to great lengths to obtain Gale, Roxanne was reluctant to return it.“Roxanne, be nice. Give Gale back to Sheila. I’ll get you another fine horse in a couple of days,” Jayden tried to convince Roxanne.“I don’t want anything else but Gale!” Roxanne was stubborn. No matter what Jayden said, she refused to budge. “Sheila, you’re a grown-up already. Are you going to back out on your asked Roxanne.