An Understated Dominance by Marina Vittori

“Your Highness, you mustn’t speak such nonsense.” Langdon put on a righteous front.

He continued, “I’ve always prided myself on my integrity and never done anything dishonorable. I’ve never betrayed the prince’s trust or let the people down, and I have nothing to hide.”

“Such lofty words,” Austin scoffed. “If you have nothing to hide, why not let the enforcement team investigate?”

Langdon’s face tightened, and a flicker of unease crossed his eyes.

After all, what official didn’t have some skeletons in the closet? A full investigation would likely turn up something, no matter how small. Even if the offenses weren’t serious, the damage to his reputation would be permanent.

With so many officials watching, Langdon couldn’t afford to back down. If he did, he would lose his standing in the political world-and his claim to integrity along with it.

“Go ahead and investigate.” He raised his chin and said confidently, “I’ve lived an honest life and never engaged in anything illegal. No matter how deep you dig, you’ll find nothing.”

“An honest life, huh? Let’s see if you’re really as innocent as you claim.” Austin turned to Axel. “Take the enforcement team. Investigate Mr. Langdon thoroughly and don’t miss a thing.”

No one was perfect, and officials often cut corners or bent the rules for personal gain. The enforcement team usually turned a blind eye to minor infractions. As long as no one caused major scandals or loss of life, most offenses were met with a slap on the wrist-nothing more.

But Langdon had crossed a line. His blatant disregard for right and wrong had angered Austin. If he didn’t put Langdon in his place now, the man would only become more brazen.

a curt nod and

Langdon panicked as

Feeling guilty? Weren’t you just putting up a

about?” Langdon swallowed hard and forced himself to stand firm. “I’m just worried about being framed.

a last-ditch effort to cover his tracks. If Austin really

you still believe Warrick was innocent? And that I’ve wrongfully accused him? Are these stacks of evidence not

be fabricated. Unless I see it with my own eyes or hear it from a credible witness, I refuse to believe

Langdon insisted.

see for yourself? And you want credible witnesses? Fine. I’ll give you both.” Austin gestured to Axel. “Bring in the two prisoners. Let’s hear what they

Highness,” Axel replied

fell into a tense silence as the officials exchanged uneasy glances and

“Prisoners? Who are they?”

notice only listed Sir Prescott. There was no mention

the witnesses Lord Austin was

maintained a calm facade, though his

been arguing stubbornly with nothing but his silver tongue; he didn’t have the evidence to support them. If Austin

spoke up again. “Your Highness, don’t think you can just trot out a couple of low-level scapegoats and call them credible witnesses. Let me