An Understated Dominance (Dustin Rhys)

“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.

curt nod

panicked as

wrong? Feeling guilty? Weren’t you just putting up a tough

and forced himself to stand firm. “I’m just worried about being framed. What if someone fabricates

tracks. If Austin really did uncover incriminating evidence,

that I’ve wrongfully accused him? Are these stacks of evidence not enough to convince

or hear it from a credible witness, I refuse to believe Sir

Langdon insisted.

yourself? And you want credible witnesses? Fine. I’ll give you both.” Austin gestured to Axel. “Bring

Your Highness,” Axel

a tense silence as the officials

“Prisoners? Who are they?”

There was no mention of

be the witnesses Lord Austin was

maintained a calm facade, though his mind was

had been arguing stubbornly with nothing but his silver tongue; he didn’t have the evidence to support them. If Austin really produced solid evidence and credible witnesses, Langdon would be in serious

don’t think you can just trot out a couple of low-level scapegoats