An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

Dustin smiled and encouraged, “Go on, don’t be shy.”

Feiver hesitated, holding onto his plate and avoiding eye contact. “You’re still growing, and you’re way too skinny, bud. You’ve got to eat more, “Dustin said, adding food to Feiver’s plate.

Feiver mumbled a reluctant “thanks”. His smile was strained, revealing his nervousness.

“Not hungry? Maybe it’s not to your liking? No worries, try the shrimp or the beef stew.” Dustin added more food to his plate, playing the role of a doting father.

“Okay, Dr. Rhys, you shouldn’t worry about me. You should eat, too!” Feiver trembled with the plate in his hand as he tried to avoid eating.

“I’m not hungry; you go ahead,” Dustin smiled.

“I-I’m not hungry either,” Feiver stammered, trembling occasionally.

“That’s fine; think of it as a tasting session. Go ahead, dig in.” Dustin nodded. As Feiver refused to eat, Dustin suddenly joked, “Why? Do you think I’ve poisoned the food?”

he managed a forced smile, beads of sweat forming on his forehead. “N-no way,

eating?” Dustin asked

picked up a piece of vegetable and took a bite. He stole a glance at Dustin, trying

of this world!”

wrong? Why aren’t you eating? The kitchen specially prepared this sumptuous feast for

desperation grew. He got agitated,

up! I’ve already eaten, so why

willing to risk your life. But unfortunately, you’ve underestimated me,” Dustin remarked, his

you mean?” Feiver started to

Vine are a deadly concoction. You’re all out for

the moment Feiver entered the room. Dustin allowed Feiver to

willing to risk his own life for

growing panic. By now, black blood was flowing from his nostrils, and his face