An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

“Are you even qualified to sit while speaking to me?”

Austin’s words struck like the blow of a hammer. They were sharp and unrelenting, and they left no room for retort.

Langdon sat frozen and was momentarily speechless. He hadn’t expected a brat like Austin to have such a sharp tongue.

If he admitted he had come for personal matters, he would keep his pride intact, but he would lose control of the conversation. Everything he had prepared -and all the accusations he meant to throw-would be meaningless.

But if he insisted it was official business, he would have to show proper respect and offer a formal greeting. No matter how he answered, he would be conceding ground.

“I’ll ask one more time. Are you here on official or personal matters?” Austin asked coldly.

“O-Official matters.” Cornered, Langdon barely managed to get the words out.

“Well? Is this how an official conducts himself?” Austin pressed.

Langdon had no choice but to rise and offer a deep bow. “Your Highness, it’s an honor to stand before you.”

The other royal advisors quickly followed suit, and their earlier arrogance vanished as they stood and paid their respects.

Axel watched the shift unfold and couldn’t hide his admiration.

strategic. With just a few words, he had these cunning

be so serious.

distant, but the next, he

everyone, have a seat. Don’t be

Austin changed his attitude, Langdon and the other royal advisors exchanged

dare, Your Highness. I’ll just stand.” Langdon’s face was grim, and his voice

had been in government for years, but never expected to be outplayed by Austin, and

wish,

then looked at Langdon with a wry

he found

righteous fury and was ready to denounce Austin. But after being thrown off balance, that fire had all but sputtered out. Now, he couldn’t even muster a stern

raised an eyebrow. “Cat got

his thoughts. “Your Highness, the city is under lockdown, and people are in a panic. I must ask-what exactly has happened

official notice this morning, and

notice?” Langdon frowned. ” What notice? Why haven’t

you missed it,” Austin said evenly. “I’ll have copies delivered to

crime did Sir Prescott commit that justifies

mistake, does that justify confiscating his properties and sentencing him

this recklessness, nor would he allow you