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.

gift was an ominous item.

seems Father doesn’t like my

and ignored the strange looks around

“This white silk once belonged to my late wife. I’ve held onto it for five years, always intending to give

hall, especially the Murray family. Their facial expressions changed

the past had almost become a taboo, and no one dared to mention it. They thought Gage had returned to

meaning of this? Why are you bringing it up now?” Edgar scolded. He turned to Christopher and pleaded, ” Dad, please don’t be angry at Gage.

“Do you remember, Father? Your actions led to my wife’s

today isn’t to celebrate my birthday but to seek justice?”

faded. “Father, if you repent and admit your mistakes, perhaps I’ll forgive

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

wiped the blood from the corner of his

continued, “Christopher Murray was responsible for my wife’s death. He destroyed my life and turned it into a living nightmare. Do you really expect me to apologize to him? Are