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

panicked as he

Feeling guilty? Weren’t you just putting up

you talking about?” Langdon swallowed hard and forced himself to stand firm. “I’m just worried about being framed. What if someone fabricates

last-ditch effort to cover his tracks. If Austin really did uncover incriminating evidence, Langdon could

Warrick was innocent? And that I’ve wrongfully accused him? Are these

it with my own eyes or hear it from a credible witness, I refuse to believe Sir Prescott would commit such heinous

Langdon insisted.

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 have to

Axel replied

the officials exchanged uneasy glances

“Prisoners? Who are they?”

There

the witnesses Lord Austin was

Langdon listened to his colleagues’ murmurs, he maintained a calm facade, though his mind was

to support them. If Austin really produced solid evidence and credible

think you can just trot out a couple of low-level scapegoats and call them