An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Sheila laughed at herself, her voice trembling with mixed emotions. “If you think of me as a friend, why did you hurt Jayden? Why did you kidnap me? What’s the point of it all?”

Dustin was momentarily speechless. He had mentioned his involvement in the fight with Jayden earlier. Still, Sheila didn’t believe him.

She had already decided, and it seemed pointless to explain. Trust faded once suspicion took hold, which he had come to accept.

“Why are you so quiet? Are you admitting you did it?” Sheila’s voice quivered with disappointment. “It seems my dad was right about you. Your past actions were just an act to gain our favor.”

She continued, “I thought you were different and special. You’re not like those who care only about power. But now I see I was mistaken.

who pretended to be close to me but were better at hiding your

cry. She had genuinely trusted him, believing she had found real affection, only to

choice. She had chosen her family. It made sense, so he had no reason to be upset with her

But I’ve never lied to you. However, that doesn’t matter now. I have nothing more to

“I hope you’ll be more careful in the future with the people you trust to avoid further disappointment. You’re safe now. I’ve fulfilled my obligation to General Murray. Your path from here

made way for him as they were

“Dustin…”

leave, a sense of panic gripped her. She reached out as

connection she had with Dustin had shattered in an instant, and now, they

to fan the flames. “You’ve finally seen his true nature. Stay away from