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, Dr.

you eating?” Dustin asked

a piece of vegetable and took a bite. He stole a glance

These flavors are out of this world!” Dustin put down his utensils but remained

you eating? The kitchen specially prepared this sumptuous feast for you! “Nervousness began to creep into

got agitated, and his face even showed

I’ve already eaten, so

to risk

mean?” Feiver started

a deadly concoction. You’re all out for

amiss from the moment Feiver entered the room. Dustin

was taken aback by the young man’s determination, willing to risk his own life for malicious

How did you know it was poisoned?” Feiver exclaimed with growing panic. By now, black blood was flowing from his nostrils, and his