An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Christopher eagerly opened the gift box. But his smile instantly vanished when he saw what was inside. The box contained no precious gift or token of affection but plain white silk. Christopher raised an eyebrow and asked, “Is this the gift you prepared?”

“What’s the matter, Father? Don’t you like it?” Gage remained calm and humble. “Do you like it?” Christopher’s expression grew stern. He exclaimed, ” Look what you gave me!”

He threw the gift box to the floor, where it cracked open, and the white silk spilled out. The guests in the banquet hall were astounded. “What’s going on? Why would anyone give the birthday person white cloth?”

“That’s not a white cloth. It’s a white silk used for hanging.”

“White silk? That’s strange. Why would anyone give that?” “No wonder General Murray was upset. I would be, too. What the hell is Gage thinking?”

Whispers and puzzled looks spread through the room. The previously friendly atmosphere grew increasingly tense.

“Why did you give this, Gage?” Edgar asked with a frown.

Take it back. It’s embarrassing!” Caden scolded. The gift was an ominous item. It was inappropriate for

Father doesn’t like my

and ignored

silk once belonged to my late wife. I’ve held

the hall, especially the Murray family. Their

almost become a taboo, and no one dared to mention it. They thought Gage had returned to make amends with his family.

scolded. He turned to Christopher and pleaded, ”

about it, does that mean what happened then never happened?” Gage smiled. He then added, “Do you remember, Father? Your actions led

return today isn’t to celebrate my birthday but to seek justice?” Christopher was unsure

faded. “Father, if you repent and admit your mistakes, perhaps

out in anger, slapping Gage across the face. He said, “Today is Dad’s birthday. You can’t do that. Apologize to Dad right

He wiped the blood from

my wife’s death. He destroyed my life and turned it into a