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.

it back. It’s embarrassing!” Caden scolded. The gift was an

seems Father doesn’t like

the white silk and

my late wife. I’ve

in the hall, especially the Murray family. Their facial expressions changed

to mention it. They thought Gage had returned to make amends with his family. No one expected

up now?” Edgar scolded. He turned to Christopher and pleaded, ” Dad, please don’t be angry at

does that mean what happened then never happened?” Gage smiled. He then added, “Do you remember, Father? Your actions led to my wife’s death. You pushed her to hang herself. You manage to tear us

to celebrate my birthday but to

repent and

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

blood from the corner of

destroyed my life and turned it into a